Apr 10, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) defends against Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham (2) during the second half at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Reginek-Imagn Images

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The Drought, the Knicks, and the Shot at Redemption: Are the Detroit Pistons Finally Ready to Rewrite Their Postseason Story?

The Detroit Pistons have had an awakening season, rising from the perils of mediocrity and delivering consistent top performances. For the longest time, even for decades, the Pistons endured setbacks on the court. However, this season has promised a bright future for the once ‘bad boys’.

The Detroit Pistons are writing a story for themselves that will be told for years to come. Their remarkable turnaround is one of the most talked-about stories in the NBA. A team that finished in the 15th position in the Eastern Conference in the previous season was touted to have another disappointing outing this time around.

However, the Pistons, under the guidance of JB Bickerstaff, have ravaged through whatever expectations were set for the side. Finishing at the 6th position in the Eastern Conference with a record of .537, Detroit has clinched a direct playoff berth for the first time in half a decade.
However, the ultimate test begins from here. From the playoffs.

We're on a mission! pic.twitter.com/eihiPUNo8n
— Detroit Pistons (@DetroitPistons) April 13, 2025

Also Read: When does the 2025 NBA Play-in Tournament start?

The Detroit Pistons’ record in the playoffs has been abysmal. In their previous two playoff series, they were knocked out with a 4-0 clean sweep in the first round. In the 2018-19 season, the Milwaukee Bucks and in the 2015-16 season, the Cleveland Cavaliers blew the Pistons out of the water. It is also notable how the Detroit Pistons have failed to win a single playoffs game since 2008.

Their last playoffs victory came against the Boston Celtics in the 2008-09 NBA Eastern Conference Finals. However, the Conference final series was still lost by 4-2 against the legendary Celtics side. Flash forward to 2025, the Pistons have their best chance so far to overcome the disastrous winless record.

Pistons’ Playoff Reckoning Begins With the Knicks

After finishing as the 6th seed, the Pistons face the New York Knicks in the first round of the playoffs series. Their in-season record against the New York Knicks is 3-1, which clearly shows that the Pistons have gotten the better of the Knicks. The most recent fixture between the two sides on April 10 was won by Detroit by 115-106.

All the signs point toward a possible advancement of the Detroit Pistons. Tactically, as well, they are well equipped to take on the Knicks. Though the New York Knicks on paper can handle big guards like Cade Cunningham. Defenders like OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges, and Josh Hart can match the intensity against their opponents. But Cunningham has been a force to reckon with, especially against the New York City-based franchise.

He lit the court in the Pistons vs Knicks December game with 29 points, 15 assists, and 10 rebounds. He delivered 36 points and four assists in the January fixture, while during the latest matchup, the guard dropped 36 points and 8 assists, shooting 57.4% overall. It is safe to say that Cade Cunningham has been the Achilles heel for the New York Knicks. While for, Detroit Pistons, he remains the best shot to advance further.