New York (1-1) at Detroit (1-1)
- When: Apr 24 2025, 7:00 PM
- Where: Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, MI, USA
- TV: TNT
NBA Playoffs Game 3 Betting Preview: Knicks vs. Pistons
Spread: New York -1 | Total: 214.5
The Eastern Conference first-round series between the New York Knicks and Detroit Pistons heads to Detroit on Thursday for Game 3, with both teams locked at one win apiece. After the Knicks handled business in Game 1, the Pistons responded with a gritty 100-94 win in Game 2, evening the series and injecting momentum into their first home playoff game.
New York Knicks Outlook
The Knicks leaned heavily on Jalen Brunson in Game 2, as he dropped a game-high 37 points while attempting 27 of New York’s 81 total field goals. The problem? The rest of the offense never found a rhythm. Karl-Anthony Towns, after an efficient Game 1, managed just 10 points in Game 2 and didn’t attempt a shot in the final quarter. Expect a more concerted effort to get him involved early and often in Game 3.
Coach Tom Thibodeau knows rebounding is a critical factor. The Knicks were dominated on the boards in Game 2 (48-34), and that edge for Detroit led to 13 second-chance points. If New York wants to reclaim control, they must improve on the glass and generate more ball movement. They recorded just 15 assists in Game 2 — their lowest total all year — and need better distribution to avoid becoming too Brunson-dependent.
Detroit Pistons Outlook
Detroit finally snapped its 15-game playoff losing streak, and confidence is riding high. Cade Cunningham stepped up with 33 points, and Jalen Duren provided crucial support with a double-double and key defensive plays. With Isaiah Stewart questionable due to knee inflammation, Duren’s role remains vital on both ends.
The Pistons’ physical brand of basketball rattled New York in Game 2, and head coach J.B. Bickerstaff is encouraging his team to keep embracing the grind. Detroit’s success in late-game execution — highlighted by Dennis Schroder’s clutch three — was a stark contrast to the blown lead in Game 1. They’ll aim to replicate that composure on Thursday.
Prediction & Betting Angles
The Knicks are slight road favorites, but the Pistons have the momentum, home crowd, and a blueprint that worked in Game 2: grind it out, win the boards, and frustrate Brunson. If Towns doesn’t deliver and the Knicks continue to play iso-heavy, they’re in trouble.
Prediction: Pistons 106, Knicks 102
Best Bet: Take the Pistons (+100) — they’re playing with intensity, depth, and confidence at home.
Over/Under Lean: Under 214.5 – Expect a slower, more physical playoff pace with limited transition scoring.
This one’s shaping up to be another bruising battle — Detroit has the edge in effort and energy right now.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
