Download the NBA App to stay updated with the 2025 NBA playoffs schedule and get comprehensive coverage of all playoff games. In a thrilling matchup on Thursday night, Jalen Brunson showcased his skills as he led the New York Knicks to a dramatic victory over the Detroit Pistons, securing a place in the second round of the NBA playoffs.
With just 4.3 seconds left on the clock, Brunson executed a stunning crossover dribble between his legs, creating enough space to sink a game-winning 3-pointer. This moment not only silenced a previously rowdy crowd that had taunted him throughout the series but also underscored his ability to perform under pressure. Brunson finished the game with an impressive 40 points, leading the Knicks to a 116-113 win over the Pistons in Game 6.
“I stay poised and I rely on the trust and composure my teammates give me,” Brunson stated after the game. Just a week prior, he was named the 2024-25 Kia NBA Clutch Player of the Year, and he certainly lived up to that accolade. Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau praised Brunson’s performance, saying, “He’s at his best when his best is needed, and he’s done it all year. That’s what makes him special.”
Detroit's hopes of tying the game and potentially forcing overtime were dashed when Malik Beasley fumbled a pass in the dying moments. Beasley, who had a strong second quarter scoring 16 points, expressed his frustration, saying, “I had a chance to make a three and tie the game. I’m mad about that.” He finished the game with 20 points.
As the third-seeded Knicks prepare to face the second-seeded Boston Celtics, their sights are set on advancing to the Eastern Conference finals for the first time since 2000. Game 1 is scheduled for Monday night in Boston. Thibodeau acknowledged the challenge ahead, stating, “They’re the defending champion, so we’re going to have to be at our best.”
Mikal Bridges contributed significantly with 25 points, while OG Anunoby added 22 points for the Knicks. The team showed resilience by closing out the game with clutch shots and defensive stops, despite losing an 11-point lead in the fourth quarter and a 15-point advantage earlier in the game.
The sixth-seeded Pistons demonstrated an incredible turnaround during the regular season, ending the NBA’s longest playoff losing streak in their first postseason appearance since 2019. However, they also set an unfortunate record with a 10th consecutive home playoff loss dating back to 2008. Cade Cunningham, who scored 23 points, dished out eight assists and grabbed seven rebounds, reflected on the season, stating, “We proved to ourselves and to the rest of the league that what we have in our room can be very successful.”
As the Knicks look forward to their showdown with the Celtics, Brunson’s ability to remain unfazed by crowd noise and pressure situations will be crucial. Thibodeau emphasized Brunson's unwavering focus, saying, “His focus is terrific. He doesn’t get sidetracked with anything but the game.” With the stage set for an exciting playoff run, fans can expect high-stakes basketball as the NBA playoffs continue.
