The New York Knicks head into Game 4 against the Detroit Pistons with a 2-1 series lead, looking to push for a commanding advantage. In their last outing, the Knicks executed a thrilling 21-0 run in the fourth quarter, securing a narrow two-point victory in Game 3. However, they face uncertainty with Mitchell Robinson's health as he is questionable due to illness, despite previous ankle issues now under control. If Robinson cannot go, expect Karl-Anthony Towns to fill the center spot along with increased minutes for Precious Achiuwa and Ariel Hukporti off the bench.

On the Pistons' side, they may also be missing key player Isaiah Stewart, who has been dealing with right knee inflammation and has already missed two games. His absence could lead to more workload for Paul Redd in the center position. This matchup at 1:00 p.m. EST promises to be pivotal as both teams vie for a critical lead in the series.

The Detroit Pistons are set to host the New York Knicks in a pivotal Game 4 of their first-round playoff series. The stakes are high for Detroit, facing the possibility of going down 3-1 in the series. After a disappointing fourth-quarter collapse in Game 1, the Pistons managed to tie the series in Game 2 but fell short in Game 3, losing by a narrow margin. A significant concern for Detroit is the status of Isaiah Stewart, who is questionable due to right knee inflammation. His absence would be felt deeply, as he is known for his defensive prowess and intensity off the bench.

Meanwhile, New York may also be facing a lineup change, with Mitchell Robinson listed as questionable due to illness. If he is unable to play, Precious Achiuwa or Ariel Hukporti could step in to support Karl-Anthony Towns. Both teams are feeling the pressure as they prepare for the crucial matchup.

The New York Knicks face a critical first-round playoff challenge against the Detroit Pistons, entering as the more talented and experienced squad. However, winning on paper requires on-court execution. To secure their place in the playoffs, the Knicks must manage several key factors closely. First, they need to keep Karl-Anthony Towns out of foul trouble, as his unique skill set is vital for their offensive strategy. The Pistons will aggressively test his discipline, looking to exploit his tendency for fouls.

The Knicks also need to address their perimeter defense. With sharpshooters like Malik Beasley and Cade Cunningham, who notably torched the Knicks in previous matchups, the Knicks must tighten their defense against the three-point shot. Additionally, they must handle physical screens set by the Pistons’ frontcourt, allowing their playmakers enough space to operate effectively.

Managing Jalen Brunson's workload is another priority. The Knicks should leverage their depth to alleviate pressure on Brunson, ensuring he has the energy for crucial moments in the game. Utilizing newly acquired Mitchell Robinson alongside Towns could also surprise the Pistons, given their lack of familiarity with Robinson's game. Lastly, trusting their bench, which appears to be in better rhythm than the starters, can provide much-needed energy and production as the series progresses.

The New York Knicks have found a promising combination in their frontcourt with Mitchell Robinson and Karl-Anthony Towns, leading to nearly a 10-point improvement per 100 possessions when they play together. Despite limited minutes together during the regular season, the duo shows great potential as a powerful weapon, particularly in their upcoming playoffs against the Detroit Pistons. The Knicks' head coach Tom Thibodeau noted that the pairing has complemented each other well due to their size, which could allow the Knicks to exploit mismatches.

Robinson has demonstrated his value with a solid performance post-injury, averaging 7 points and 7.5 rebounds in his last four games, including a double-double against the 76ers. Towns’ addition to the team, alongside Robinson, is seen as a strategic move to enhance their playoff competitiveness. The Knicks also boast impressive stats with a plus-28 net rating when Mikal Bridges joins them on the floor, pointing to a versatile and potentially formidable lineup. However, concerns about depth remain, particularly with Robinson’s recent recovery and Towns' tendency to draw fouls, making depth management crucial for their playoff success.

Madison Square Garden has a new target as Cade Cunningham of the Detroit Pistons becomes the focal point for the New York Knicks in their playoff quest. Averaging 31 points and 8 assists against the Knicks this season, Cunningham's performance is a significant concern for head coach Tom Thibodeau. Thibodeau emphasizes the need for a collective defensive effort to counter Cunningham's multifaceted game. The addition of veterans like Tobias Harris has enhanced Cunningham's playmaking, making him a candidate for Most Improved Player and solidifying his All-NBA status.

With Mitchell Robinson returning to the Knicks, who struggled defensively against the Pistons previously, they are set to deploy OG Anunoby as a primary defender against Cunningham. Anunoby's defensive prowess adds a new layer to the matchup, which will require a comprehensive strategy from the Knicks. The stakes are high, with both teams coming into the playoffs at full strength, setting up an exciting showdown that could redefine their postseason narratives.