New York (3-2) at Detroit (2-3)
- When: May 1 2025, 7:30 PM
- Where: Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, MI, USA
- TV: TNT
NBA Playoffs Game 6 Preview: Knicks vs Pistons
Spread: Detroit -1.5 | Total: 213.5
The Detroit Pistons enter Game 6 of their Eastern Conference first-round series as 1.5-point favorites over the New York Knicks, with the total sitting at 213.5. The Pistons are trying to keep their postseason hopes alive on home court, trailing 3-2 in the series. Only a handful of teams in NBA history have come back from a 3-1 deficit, but Detroit’s recent grit suggests they’re not going quietly.
Detroit Pistons Outlook & Betting Edge
Detroit heads into Game 6 riding the momentum of a hard-fought 106-103 win at Madison Square Garden in Game 5. Cade Cunningham was clutch in the second half, dropping 20 of his 24 points when it mattered most. Rookie Ausar Thompson came alive with 22 points and put in strong defensive work against Jalen Brunson, holding the Knicks star to just 16 points on 4-of-16 shooting.
Coach J.B. Bickerstaff has emphasized a game-by-game mentality, and it’s paid off. Detroit has been the more physical team when their backs are against the wall, and their defensive intensity showed in Game 5. The Pistons will need to maintain that approach to snap their nine-game home playoff losing streak and force a decisive Game 7.
New York Knicks Breakdown & Betting Takeaways
The Knicks missed their chance to close the series in five games, with injuries and fatigue creeping in. Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart were both banged up late in Game 5, and Coach Tom Thibodeau’s decision to delay re-entering them in crunch time may have cost the Knicks a shot at a comeback.
Brunson averaged over 33 points through the first four games but was held in check on Tuesday. Whether it’s his ankle or just worn-down legs, his health will be a key concern heading into Thursday night. Karl-Anthony Towns also had a quiet Game 5 with just 17 points, and New York’s physical style hasn’t yielded a double-digit win all series.
Despite winning twice on the road already, the Knicks can’t afford another letdown. But with the Pistons carrying momentum and the Knicks’ depth and health issues mounting, this looks like a tough spot.
Betting Summary
Projected Score: Pistons 107, Knicks 103
Spread Lean: Detroit -1.5
Total Lean: Under 213.5
Series Note: Road team has won 4 of 5; that trend could snap here.
Situational Angle: Detroit has nothing to lose and is finally playing loose at home. Knicks might be tightening up under pressure.
Best Bet: Back the Pistons to cover and force a Game 7 in New York.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
