Detroit (1-3) at New York (3-1)
- When: Apr 29 2025, 7:30 PM
- Where: Madison Square Garden, New York, NY, USA
- TV: TNT
Pistons vs. Knicks Game 5 Betting Preview, Prediction & Breakdown
Spread: New York -5.5 | Total: 213.0
New York Knicks Outlook
The Knicks return to Madison Square Garden with a chance to finish the job after escaping Detroit with back-to-back close victories. After dropping Game 2 in frustrating fashion, New York turned to its stars—and they delivered. Karl-Anthony Towns bounced back with a 31-point effort in Game 3 and iced Game 4 with a dagger three-pointer late in the fourth quarter, finishing with 27 points. Jalen Brunson has continued to shine under pressure, averaging 33.3 points through four games and carrying the backcourt load.
New York’s physical defense has kept Detroit in check when it counts, and head coach Tom Thibodeau’s group is now just one win away from reaching the second round for the third straight year. Towns’ recent resurgence and Brunson’s leadership at the point give the Knicks a serious edge. Playing at home with a chance to close out the series, expect a focused and physical effort from the Knicks to cover the spread and dictate the tempo.
Detroit Pistons Outlook
The Pistons showed grit by nearly stealing Game 4 after trailing by 16 early, but they couldn’t hold a late 11-point lead and were blanked in the final two minutes. Cade Cunningham remains the lifeblood of Detroit’s offense, averaging over 25 points on 46% shooting across the last three games. Still, the Pistons are searching for more consistent help. Tobias Harris and Tim Hardaway Jr. have both been streaky, with Hardaway’s hot shooting in Detroit needing to carry over to Game 5 if the Pistons want to stay alive.
Despite holding a slight edge in free-throw attempts across the series, Detroit’s struggles with foul trouble and late-game execution have become major issues. If they want to force a Game 6, the Pistons will need to limit turnovers, find more second-chance opportunities, and avoid the extended scoring droughts that have haunted them throughout the series.
Betting Insight & Prediction
New York’s ability to close out tight games has been the difference so far, and with the home crowd behind them, they’re in prime position to finish the series. The Pistons may keep it competitive early, but the Knicks’ superior execution and shot creation in the clutch should lead them to cover the 5.5-point spread. Look for a low-scoring, grind-it-out affair that stays just under the 213-point total.
Final Score Prediction: Knicks 107, Pistons 98
Pick: Knicks -5.5
Lean: Under 213
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
