Detroit Pistons Vs Knicks Match Player Stats

July 9, 2025 By Michael S. Davis No Comments 5 minutes

In a thrilling Eastern Conference battle at Madison Square Garden on January 13, 2025, the Detroit Pistons defeated the New York Knicks 124–119, snapping a long losing streak and proving that they are no longer a rebuilding franchise to be underestimated. This victory not only marked Detroit’s continued ascent in the standings but also revealed glaring weaknesses in the Knicks’ defense, which failed to contain Detroit’s bench-heavy offensive attack.

This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of the match, including player statistics, team dynamics, key moments, and what it all means moving forward.

Game Summary

• Final Score: Detroit Pistons 124 – New York Knicks 119
• Date: January 13, 2025
• Venue: Madison Square Garden, New York City
• Attendance: Sold out
• Records After Game:
  • Pistons: 21–19
  • Knicks: 24–17

The Pistons entered the game as underdogs but stunned the Knicks with a fast-paced offense led by a sensational second-half performance from Cade Cunningham and clutch shooting from Malik Beasley. The Knicks, despite strong individual showings, failed to capitalize on key possessions and ultimately fell short in crunch time.

Star Players & Key Stats – Detroit Pistons

Cade Cunningham – The Franchise Player Steps Up

• Points: 36
• Second Half Points: 29
• Field Goals: 13-21 (61.9%)
• 3PT Shooting: 3-6
• Free Throws: 7-8
• Assists: 7
• Rebounds: 5
• Turnovers: 2
• Plus/Minus: +11

Cade Cunningham once again delivered a performance worthy of a franchise cornerstone. He was relatively quiet in the first half with only 7 points but exploded in the second, slicing through the Knicks’ defense with precision. Whether pulling up from beyond the arc, driving into traffic, or orchestrating plays for others, Cunningham was a complete offensive force.

Malik Beasley – The Clutch Marksman

• Points: 22
• 3PT Shooting: 6-8 (75%)
• Rebounds: 4
• Assists: 3
• Clutch Moments: Hit two key 3-pointers in the final 90 seconds

Beasley played the role of dagger-thrower, punishing New York’s collapsing perimeter defense with timely threes. His last two three-point bombs in the final stretch of the fourth quarter iced the game for Detroit.

Jalen Duren – Double-Double Machine

• Points: 11
• Rebounds: 12
• Blocks: 2
• Field Goals: 5-6 (83.3%)

Duren’s size and athleticism gave the Knicks trouble inside. He consistently outworked his matchup on the boards and altered several shots defensively.

Tim Hardaway Jr. – Veteran Presence

• Points: 10
• 3PT Shooting: 2-5
• Free Throws: 4-4

Hardaway Jr., playing in his old home arena, contributed efficient minutes off the bench. His spacing and decision-making helped Detroit maintain offensive rhythm.

Tobias Harris – All-Around Efficiency

• Points: 13
• Rebounds: 6
• Assists: 2
• Turnovers: 1

Harris played with composure, knocking down mid-range shots and offering versatility on both ends of the floor. While not flashy, his contributions were vital.

New York Knicks Player Stats & Highlights

Jalen Brunson – Leader Under Pressure

• Points: 31
• Assists: 11
• Turnovers: 3
• 3PT Shooting: 3-7
• Field Goals: 11-19

Despite nursing a sore shoulder, Brunson gave his all. He drove into traffic fearlessly, found teammates with crisp passes, and led the team’s offensive sets effectively. However, in the final 2 minutes, Detroit’s defense forced him into contested jumpers.

Karl-Anthony Towns – Double-Double with Dominance

• Points: 26
• Rebounds: 12
• Blocks: 1
• Turnovers: 2
• Free Throws: 5-6

Towns had his moments in the post and from mid-range, but his influence waned in the second half as Detroit’s defense adjusted. He couldn’t fully stretch the floor with Detroit covering pick-and-pop actions better in the final quarter.

Mikal Bridges – Sharp Shooter

• Points: 27
• Field Goal %: 52%
• 3PT Shooting: 4-7

Bridges carried much of the Knicks’ scoring in the second and third quarters, hitting long-range shots and cutting effectively to the basket. However, his impact dipped as Detroit’s transition game picked up pace.

Josh Hart – Hustle Player

• Points: 12
• Rebounds: 14
• Assists: 4
• Steals: 2

Hart was, as always, the Knicks’ energizer. He chased down rebounds, fought for loose balls, and defended aggressively. Still, his limited offensive output was a concern given the defensive slack from the perimeter.

Team Stats Comparison

The Pistons excelled with better ball movement, higher three-point efficiency, and dominant bench production. The +33 advantage in bench points was arguably the game’s biggest statistical story.

Key Takeaways

1. Detroit’s Bench is a Game-Changer

Malik Beasley, Hardaway Jr., and the rotation pieces continue to elevate Detroit’s ceiling. Head Coach Monty Williams has structured a second unit that plays with pace, discipline, and shooting accuracy.

2. Cade Cunningham is Entering Stardom

Cunningham’s 36-point performance isn’t just about numbers. His maturity, decision-making, and second-half takeover suggest he is evolving into a top-tier guard in the NBA.

3. Knicks’ Defensive Rotations Need Urgency

While the Knicks boast a strong starting five, their defense broke down consistently—especially in pick-and-roll coverages and corner three defense. Coach Tom Thibodeau will need to tighten these lapses moving forward.

4. Rebounding and Transition Matter

Detroit’s +6 advantage on the glass, paired with quick outlet passes and effective fast breaks, often caught New York flat-footed. Second-chance points and fast transitions defined the tempo.

Head-to-Head 2024–25 Season Recap

• Game 1 (Nov 1, 2024) – Knicks 128, Pistons 98 (Blowout at Detroit)
• Game 2 (Dec 7, 2024) – Pistons 120, Knicks 111 (Revenge in New York)
• Game 3 (Jan 13, 2025) – Pistons 124, Knicks 119

Season Series: Pistons lead 2–1 with one game remaining.

Conclusion: What’s Next?

The Detroit Pistons’ victory over the Knicks is not just another regular-season win—it’s a statement of growth, chemistry, and legitimacy. With Cade Cunningham taking on a leadership role, Malik Beasley raining down clutch buckets, and a deep bench contributing across the board, Detroit looks poised to challenge higher-seeded teams in the East.

For the Knicks, while Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns continue to produce All-Star caliber performances, the team needs to address defensive breakdowns and bench contributions if they aim to make a deep postseason run.

As both teams continue to jostle for playoff positioning, this matchup could serve as a preview of a future playoff battle—and fans should be excited for what’s ahead.

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