Detroit Pistons vs. New York Knicks Prediction, NBA Odds
To kick off the post-All-Star break second half, we get the third and final regular-season meeting between the Detroit Pistons (40-13) and the New York Knicks (35-20) at 7:30 p.m. ET on Prime Video. This time, the Pistons travel to New York. Detroit sits first in the East, with New York close behind in third. While these teams played each other in the opening round of last year’s playoffs, this looks like a potential Eastern Conference Finals matchup this year.
The Pistons absolutely dominated the first two meetings in Detroit, winning 121-90 and 118-80. With revenge on the Knicks’ minds, and neither primary front-court piece available for the Pistons, expect a far more competitive battle at MSG.
Pistons vs. Knicks NBA Betting Odds
Here are the latest NBA odds for a potential Eastern Conference Finals matchup:
- Point Spread: Pistons +4.5 (-110) vs. Knicks -4.5 (-110)
- Moneyline: Pistons (+150) vs. Knicks (-185)
- Point Total: Over 222.5 (-110) / Under 222.5 (-110)
The Knicks are 33-14 as moneyline favourites this season and an impressive 10-2 against the spread over their last 12 games. Detroit has thrived as an underdog, winning nine of 10 outright in that role. However, the Pistons will be without Jalen Duren and Isaiah Stewart, which should significantly impact the rebounding battle.
Notably, New York is 27-14 ATS when scoring more than 109.3 points, while Detroit is 26-11 ATS when topping 111.9. Detroit has thrived on defence this season, and the Under is 31-21-1 in their games. On the flip side, New York has an equal 28-28 mark to the Over/Under.
Detroit Pistons
Detroit has been the class of the East, powered by Cade Cunningham’s 25.3 points per game, 9.6 assists per game, and the league’s third-best scoring defence (109.3 points allowed per game). The Pistons have won the turnover battle in both meetings despite ranking 22nd in turnovers committed this season, dominated the glass despite being the far inferior rebounding team, and have shot significantly better from three, despite being the worst, less-reliant three-point shooting team.
However, Stewart and All-Star centre Jalen Duren remain suspended following the pre-break altercation with the Charlotte Hornets. While Detroit managed to dominate New York without Duren previously, Stewart’s presence contributed significantly to those wins.
The Pistons shot a combined 33-of-71 from three in the two blowouts. Given their season-long 34.9 per cent mark from deep (21st in the NBA), some regression is likely on the road.
New York Knicks
New York returns home to one of the league’s toughest venues, boasting a 22-7 record at MSG. The Knicks are eighth in scoring (118.0 PPG) and sixth defensively (111.9 PPG allowed), showing balance on both ends.
Jalen Brunson continues to lead the way at 27.0 points per game, and this feels like a statement opportunity after two lopsided losses to Detroit. Karl-Anthony Towns struggled mightily in his lone prior meeting with Detroit (six points, six turnovers) and missed the second meeting, but should have a clear advantage inside with Duren and Stewart unavailable.
The Knicks are among the league’s best three-point shooting teams (37.8 per cent, third overall) and rank ninth in attempts. After being outshot dramatically in the first two matchups, expect more offensive rebounds turning into second-chance kick-outs and cleaner perimeter looks at home.
NBA Prediction: Who Will Win Pistons vs. Knicks?
It may seem odd to back New York after two blowout losses, but Detroit missing its starting front-court is huge, and rebounding should tilt heavily toward the Knicks this time around. Combine that with home-court advantage, and the spot sets up well for the Knicks to salvage the season series from a sweep.
Best Bet: Knicks -4.5 (-110)
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