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.