NBA Playoffs Game 3 Preview: Knicks vs. Pistons Predictions, Odds, and Top Picks
Ready to catch the NBA Playoffs action? On April 24, 2025, the New York Knicks ripped a nail-biting 118-116 win against the Detroit Pistons, taking the series lead to 2-1. This electrifying game was powered by Jalen Brunson who knocked down 30 points and 9 assists, but missed his mark from the three-point line[4]. The game was filled with excitement, controversy, and some heated moments, most notably a debated backcourt violation by Brunson[4]. But in the end, it was the Knicks that came out on top.
Want to keep up with the Knicks' push for the title? Don't miss our in-depth analysis, expert predictions, and daily best bets, available right here on VSiN. Tune in for previews of every single series, player props, betting trends, and insights from our analytics guru, Steve Makinen. And don't forget to catch our live programming, where we'll discuss all the latest developments! With our $59 Summer Special, you gain access to everything we have to offer until August 1st[2].
And now, let's dive into details about the showdown between the Knicks and the Pistons!
Where & When: Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan, at 7:00 pm ET on Thursday, April 24th[1]
Channel: TNT
Knicks vs. Pistons Odds[3]
Moneyline: Knicks -118, Pistons -102Spread: Knicks -1 (-110), Pistons +1 (-110)Total: Over 213.5 (-110), Under 213.5 (-110)
Knicks vs. Pistons Prediction
The Detroit Pistons have put up a good fight all season, but can they keep stifling the Knicks? In Game 2, New York scored only 101.1 points per 100 possessions, way below their regular season average[4]. Despite playing at Little Caesars Arena, which is not as comfortable as Madison Square Garden for the Knicks, I believe they'll respond with a better approach in Game 3.
Jalen Brunson, one of the world's best isolation scorers, has over-relied on dribbling in this series. During the Knicks' morning shootaround, Brunson admitted he needs to get off the ball more. By doing so, they can unlock the team's potential and increase involvement from Karl-Anthony Towns, OG Anunoby, and Mikal Bridges. This will also make Brunson's job easier[4].
Defensively, while it might be hard to believe, New York doesn't need to make significant changes. In Game 2, they held the Pistons to 106.4 points per 100 possessions[4]. All they need to do is to keep fouling less, which might happen naturally with Thibodeau complaining about the whistle after Game 2. They need to perform well offensively to match their defensive effort[4].
One more intriguing fact - the Knicks have a strong track record when coming off an upset loss at home under Thibodeau, going 28-16 straight-up[2]. On the other hand, the Pistons have struggled as home underdogs under Bickerstaff, going just 8-10[2]. This series is starting to show signs of who's learning from their mistakes[4].
Bet: Knicks ML (-115 - 1.5 units)
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- With our $59 Summer Special, you'll have unlimited access to all our content until August 1st.
- In the Knicks vs. Pistons showdown, the Knicks moneyline stands at -118, with the Pistons at -102, according to the current odds.
- The Knicks have a strong history of success when coming off an upset loss at home under Tom Thibodeau, boasting a 28-16 straight-up record in such situations.
- Despite a mediocre performance offensively in Game 2, and some reliance on isolation play, the Knicks are predicted to improve offensively in Game 3, making a Knicks Moneyline (-115 - 1.5 units) bet a sure guide in this NBA Playoffs game.
