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.

The New York Knicks faced a disappointing loss to the Detroit Pistons in Game 5 of their NBA playoff series, falling 106-103. This defeat means the series extends to a sixth game. Knicks' coach Tom Thibodeau came under fire for his decision to keep Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart on the bench during critical moments in the final minutes, a choice he defended as a 'coach's decision.' Brunson struggled during his time on the court, shooting only 25% with 16 points. Karl-Anthony Towns acknowledged the team's slow start, emphasizing the need to overcome early deficits. In contrast, the Pistons thrived under pressure, with Tobias Harris noting the team's determination to fight for their playoff lives.

In a gripping Game 5, the New York Knicks faced a crucial moment as Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart watched from the sidelines while the Detroit Pistons pulled ahead. Brunson struggled with an ankle injury, and Hart suffered a hard fall, leaving the Knicks without their key offensive catalysts during a critical stretch. Coach Tom Thibodeau opted not to call a foul to stop the clock or use a timeout to get them back in the game, a decision that proved costly as the Knicks' bench struggled to mount a comeback against the Pistons' defense.

The offensive drought allowed Detroit to extend their lead, with Cade Cunningham showcasing his ability by driving past defenders and scoring crucial points. Despite hitting a couple of late three-pointers, the Knicks couldn’t overcome the deficit, falling short and forcing a Game 6. With just one day before the next game, questions loom about Brunson and Hart's availability and health as they prepare to face the Pistons again.

The Knicks faced a disappointing defeat in Game 5 against the Detroit Pistons, as injuries sidelined key players Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart. With a chance to secure a playoff series at Madison Square Garden for the first time since 1999, New York fell short due to poor timeout management and fourth-quarter injuries. The Pistons capitalized, pulling ahead late in the game, and ultimately winning 106-103. This loss puts intensified pressure on the Knicks as they head into a must-win Game 6 in Detroit.

Brunson, named the league's Clutch Player of the Year, and Hart, his essential partner on the court, were sorely missed in the final moments. Instead, the Knicks closed with less experienced players, which hurt their chances of overcoming the Pistons' late lead. Karl-Anthony Towns struggled to find his rhythm, while Mikal Bridges' inconsistent shooting continued to be a concern. The team's lack of depth and mounting injuries could spell trouble as they prepare to face the Boston Celtics, who are fully rested and eager to capitalize on any Knicks' weaknesses.