Knicks Fall to Pistons in Game 5, Series Heads to Detroit
In a heart-wrenching conclusion to Game 5, the New York Knicks succumbed to the Detroit Pistons 106-103, prompting a return to Detroit for Game 6 this Thursday. The Knicks had an opportunity to seize the game but faltered at a crucial moment with under three minutes remaining.
In a setback for New York, key players Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart exited the game due to injuries. Knicks coach Thom Thibodeau faced a pivotal choice: with only one timeout available, he opted against stopping play to reintegrate Brunson and Hart. This gamble backfired, allowing the Pistons to embark on a 6-2 run and take a 103-97 lead. Despite their return, Brunson and Hart were back on the court with just 27 seconds left on the clock.
Desperate to recover, Brunson swiftly passed to Mikal Bridges, who drained a three to narrow the Pistons’ lead. Following a free throw by Dennis Shrouder, OG Anunoby also hit a three-pointer, shrinking the deficit to just one point. However, the Knicks’ hopes dimmed when Brunson’s attempt to intercept an inbounds pass failed, handing Detroit the opportunity to secure the win at the free-throw line, courtesy of Cade Cunningham.
The series now shifts to Detroit, where the Pistons have not claimed a home playoff victory since the 2008 Eastern Conference Finals. Knicks fans are left reflecting on a close game filled with missed chances, as the team looks to regroup and push forward in a challenging playoff battle.
About the Author
Michael Cohen, News and Sports Director at Fox Sports Radio New Jersey and Magic 98.3 FM, brings extensive experience to his reporting, having worked in various roles in sports journalism since 2018.
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