Detroit, Mich. — Jalen Brunson delivered a stunning performance on Thursday night, sinking the decisive three-pointer with just 4.3 seconds remaining to lead the New York Knicks to a thrilling 116-113 victory over the Detroit Pistons in Game 6 of their playoff series. This triumph secured the Knicks’ advancement to the second round of the NBA playoffs and capped off Brunson’s remarkable eighth career playoff game with 40 or more points.
Brunson’s game-winning shot came after a skillful crossover dribble that created just enough room to get off the clean look. Celebrating the moment, he playfully blew a kiss to the crowd that had booed him throughout the series. “I stay poised and I rely on the trust and composure my teammates give me,” Brunson remarked after the game, emphasizing the support he felt from his team.
The victory highlighted Brunson’s status as one of the league’s premier clutch performers, a reputation he solidified after being named the Kia NBA Clutch Player of the Year for the 2024-25 season. “He’s at his best when his best is needed. He’s done it all year,” noted Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau.
The Pistons, despite their efforts, struggled to tie the game in the waning moments. Malik Beasley, who had a standout performance with 20 points, fumbled a crucial pass that ended their chance to push the game into overtime. “This is tough. I had a chance to make a three and tie the game,” Beasley said, expressing his disappointment.
New York’s next challenge awaits as they will face the Boston Celtics in the second round, vying for a spot in the Eastern Conference finals for the first time since 2000. Game 1 is set to take place on Monday night in Boston. “They’re the defending champion, so we’re going to have to be at our best,” Thibodeau stated, setting the stage for a fierce competition ahead.
The Knicks, who entered the game as the third seed, showcased their resilience by overcoming a significant lead. After losing an 11-point advantage in the fourth quarter and a 15-point lead during the second, they made critical plays in the final moments to secure the win. Mikal Bridges contributed with 25 points, while OG Anunoby added 22, helping the team clinch the series.
On the other side, the Pistons experience was bittersweet. Having made a remarkable comeback during the regular season, they ended their playoff drought but saw their home misfortunes continue, setting a league record with a tenth consecutive home playoff loss dating back to 2008. Cade Cunningham led Detroit with 23 points, alongside eight assists and seven rebounds, though he struggled mightily from long range, missing all of his eight three-point attempts.
Despite the team’s challenges, Cunningham expressed optimism about the future, stating, “We proved to ourselves and to the rest of the league that what we have in our room can be very successful.” Coach J.B. Bickerstaff acknowledged the efforts of his team but lamented the missed opportunities against a formidable Knicks squad. “They just made one more play than we did,” he said.
Brunson’s journey through the series was not without its challenges, as he faced hostility from the Detroit crowd almost every time he touched the ball. Both fans and the environment tested his focus, but Thibodeau remained confident in his star guard’s ability to maintain his composure. “His focus is terrific. He doesn’t get sidetracked with anything but the game,” Thibodeau asserted.
As the Knicks celebrate their hard-fought series victory, all eyes will now be on their next challenge against the reigning champions, where continuity and performance under pressure will be key for Brunson and his teammates.