The 2025 NBA playoffs are nearing an exciting conclusion as the first round winds down. The Cleveland Cavaliers, Boston Celtics, Indiana Pacers, and Oklahoma City Thunder are already through to the semifinals, showcasing dominant performances. The Cavaliers swept the Miami Heat, while the Celtics overcame the Orlando Magic in five games. The Pacers also advanced decisively against the Milwaukee Bucks, winning 4-1.

In the Eastern Conference, the New York Knicks are in a tight battle against the Detroit Pistons, leading 3-2, while the outcome remains uncertain for the Knicks and the Pistons as they prepare for their Game 6 matchup. Over in the Western Conference, the Golden State Warriors have a chance to secure their spot against the Houston Rockets, holding a 3-1 advantage. The Minnesota Timberwolves also lead their series against the Los Angeles Lakers, 3-1, as they look to clinch advancement soon. With potential conference semifinal matchups set for early May, anticipation builds for thrilling playoff action.

Despite significant playoff experience and talent, the New York Knicks find themselves struggling against the Detroit Pistons, having lost each of the last five third quarters in their playoff series. Mikal Bridges humorously suggested layup lines to get the team moving post-halftime, a tactic he recalls from his time with the Suns. Josh Hart and Jalen Brunson echoed the need for a stronger start to the second half. The Knicks, who had leads at halftime, have become accustomed to trailing in the fourth, with every game in this series ending in a nail-biting finish.

In Game 5, the Knicks squandered a 16-point lead, allowing the Pistons to capitalize and swing momentum. Karl-Anthony Towns emphasized the need for better execution, while Brunson struggled offensively, limited to just 16 points. As the series progresses, the Knicks must address their second-half performance to ensure they capitalize on their significant advantages.

The No. 3 New York Knicks faced a stunning setback in Game 5 of their playoff series against the No. 6 Detroit Pistons, losing 106-103 at Madison Square Garden. With the Knicks on the verge of closing out the series, the game saw dramatic twists, including injuries to key players Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart during crucial moments. Coach Tom Thibodeau opted not to call a timeout in the final stretch, a decision that proved pivotal as the Knicks struggled to regain control.

Despite leading by 16 points early, the Knicks fell behind in the fourth quarter, unable to score in the closing minutes. Brunson, who earned the title of Clutch Player of the Year, was sidelined when it mattered most. The Pistons capitalized on this, trimming the Knicks' series lead to 3-2. With Game 6 looming, the Knicks must regroup and address their late-game execution to avoid a nerve-wracking Game 7.

In a tightly contested matchup, the New York Knicks narrowly fell to the Detroit Pistons 106-103, forcing a Game 6 in their playoff series. The Knicks had a chance to clinch the series but faltered against a resilient Pistons team that rebounded from a heartbreaking loss in Game 4. Charles Barkley praised the Pistons for their tenacity, highlighting their ability to overcome adversity and win on the road.

Despite being the more experienced team, the Knicks struggled to maintain their lead. Tim Hardaway Jr. had a chance to win the game with a three-pointer but missed, leading to questions about officiating after a potential foul by Josh Hart went uncalled. As the series heads back to Detroit, both teams will be eyeing their opportunities for a decisive win.

The New York Knicks are struggling to finish strong in their current playoff series, exemplified by their recent 106-103 loss. Seeking their first postseason series win at home since 1999, the Knicks have exhibited self-inflicted wounds including low-energy third quarters and careless play. Center Karl-Anthony Towns emphasized the need for increased effort and discipline. Although the Knicks have a solid clutch record, their performance in high-stakes playoff games has proven insufficient. Their upcoming opponent, the Boston Celtics, swept them during the regular season, suggesting an uphill battle awaits.

In Game 5, while Jalen Brunson and Towns struggled, the team showed depth as six players scored in double figures. The Knicks have lost every third quarter in the series, averaging a -33 point differential. As they look to solidify their playoff run, the team needs to refocus on execution and eliminate distractions during crucial moments of the game.