Jalen Brunson's Heroics Send Knicks Past Pistons in Game 6 Thriller

In a dramatic conclusion to a fiercely contested first-round series, the New York Knicks overcame an 11-point deficit in the fourth quarter to defeat the Detroit Pistons 116–113 in Game 6. The win propels the Knicks into the Eastern Conference semifinals for the third consecutive year, where they’ll face the Boston Celtics.

 Brunson's Clutch Legacy Grows

Jalen Brunson reinforced his reputation as the NBA’s Clutch Player of the Year with a spectacular performance, scoring 40 points, dishing out seven assists, and grabbing four rebounds. Most memorably, he nailed the game-winning three-pointer with just 4.3 seconds remaining, sealing the Knicks' series victory in iconic fashion.

Throughout the game, Brunson controlled the pace, scoring at all three levels and orchestrating the offense with poise. His fourth-quarter dominance helped fuel an 11–1 run that flipped the momentum after the Knicks had trailed by double digits.

Key Contributions from Bridges and Anunoby

Mikal Bridges rose to the occasion, scoring 25 points on 11-of-16 shooting. His energy and activity were crucial on both ends of the floor, culminating in a key tip-in that tied the game in the final moments.

OG Anunoby added 22 points and three steals, proving vital with his two-way impact. His perimeter defense disrupted Detroit’s rhythm, while his timely baskets kept the Knicks within striking distance through the first three quarters.

 Pistons Fall Short Despite Strong Effort

The Detroit Pistons showed resilience, led by Cade Cunningham's 23 points. However, Cunningham struggled from beyond the arc, missing all eight of his three-point attempts. Jalen Duren added 21 points and Malik Beasley contributed 20, but the team couldn’t hold off New York's late surge.

This loss marked Detroit’s 10th consecutive home playoff defeat, setting a new NBA record. Despite the exit, the Pistons’ young core showed promise for the future.

 Knicks Head to Boston for Semifinals

The Knicks’ win sets up a highly anticipated showdown with the top-seeded Boston Celtics. Game 1 is scheduled for Monday, May 5, in Boston. Key matchups will include Jalen Brunson vs. Jrue Holiday and OG Anunoby defending Jayson Tatum.

New York will look to build on the momentum from this dramatic series win as they prepare to face one of the NBA’s most formidable teams.