The Detroit Pistons take on the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on Monday, January 13, 2025, at 7:30 PM ET. The Pistons (20-19) are eighth in the Eastern Conference and pushing for their first playoff appearance in six years. The Knicks (26-14) are third in the East and looking to solidify their position as one of the conference’s top teams.
These teams have split their two meetings this season. New York won big in Detroit on November 1, 128-98, behind Jalen Brunson’s 36 points. However, Detroit responded with a 120-111 victory in New York on December 7, with Cade Cunningham recording a triple-double. Both teams have momentum heading into this matchup, making it a critical game for playoff positioning.
Detroit Pistons Preview – Cunningham Leading the Charge
Detroit is on an upswing, winning 11 of their last 15 games to move above .500. Cade Cunningham has been the driving force, averaging 24.9 points, 10.1 assists, and 6.1 rebounds over this stretch. He posted a triple-double with 22 points, 18 assists, and 10 rebounds in their recent win against Toronto.
The Pistons have seen improved production from their supporting cast. Tim Hardaway Jr. scored 27 points in their last game, while Jalen Duren anchors the paint with consistent rebounding and shot-blocking. Detroit ranks 15th in scoring at 112.1 points per game and has been efficient in moving the ball with 25.9 assists per game.
Defensively, Detroit will need to tighten up against the Knicks’ potent offense. They are ranked 22nd in defensive rebounds, which could be a concern against a strong rebounding team like New York. Stopping Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns will be a key focus.
New York Knicks Preview – Brunson Inspiring the Squad
The Knicks enter this game on the second leg of a back-to-back after a dominant 140-106 win over Milwaukee. Jalen Brunson was the standout, scoring 44 points despite briefly leaving with a shoulder stinger. Brunson is averaging 25.5 points and 7.5 assists per game this season, leading New York’s offense.
Karl-Anthony Towns has also been a key contributor, posting 30 points and 18 rebounds against the Bucks. With players like OG Anunoby and Josh Hart providing versatile defense and timely scoring, the Knicks have been one of the most balanced teams in the league. They rank eighth in points allowed, giving up just 110.4 per game.
The Knicks’ strong rebounding (first in the league) and ability to control the pace will be crucial against a Detroit team that thrives on offensive efficiency. New York’s bench depth, led by versatile defenders, could also play a significant role in this matchup.
Betting Prediction
New York is a 7.5-point favorite with a total set at 225.5 points. The Knicks’ strong home performance (13-6) and dominant win against Milwaukee suggest they could cover the spread. However, Detroit’s recent form and Cunningham’s ability to create offense may keep this game close.
Expect a competitive game, but New York’s depth and rebounding advantage should allow them to pull away late. A predicted scoreline of 117-109 favors the Knicks, with the total staying slightly under.
Pick: Detroit +7.5, Under 225.5
