Knicks vs. Pistons Game 2: Predictions, picks, odds for 2025 NBA playoff series
The New York Knicks took a 1-0 series lead over the Detroit Pistons in their 2025 NBA playoffs first-round matchup . Here's the latest odds and predictions for Game 2 o this Eastern Conference tilt.
The New York Knicks looked postseason-tested, and the Detroit Pistons didn't seem quite ready for the biggest moments of crunch time when the two teams began their 2025 NBA playoffs series on Saturday. Game 2 on Monday at Madison Square Garden should provide clarity on whether one fourth quarter becomes a first-round theme.
The Knicks are favored to take a commanding 2-0 series lead over the Pistons after their 123-112 win in Game 1. New York blew open a close game by reeling off a 21-0 run in the closing minutes, and Jalen Brunson led all scorers with 34 points. Detroit was the biggest surprise of this NBA season with a 30-win improvement from the year before, and the franchise is seeking its first playoff win since 2008.
Experts are weighing in on who wins now that this 2025 NBA playoffs series between the New York Knicks and Detroit Pistons is underway. Here's a look at some picks and predictions for Game 2, as well as the latest odds:
Knicks vs. Pistons predictions: Game 2 picks for NBA playoffs first round
Sportsbook Wire: Knicks 117, Pistons 107
Corey Scott writes, "The Knicks (-275) are 28-10 as home favorites, according to TeamRankings.com, and will likely defend home court in Game 2. However, the payout on New York ML isn't high enough, and the takeback on Pistons (+220) isn't worth the risk.
Detroit Free Press: Knicks 120, Pistons 110
Omari Sankofa writes, "Regardless of if (Isaiah) Stewart plays or not, he's less than 100% physically. That's costly for the Pistons, who will need multiple players to step up to match Stewart's defensive versatility and energy. They have the offensive firepower to beat the Knicks, but Saturday's fourth quarter showed just how important Stewart's presence is. They'll hope he's healthy for Game 3 back home."
Draftkings Network: Knicks take Game 2
Dan Johnson writes, "The key to this game lies in New York’s depth, offensive balance, and defensive ability to turn up the pressure when needed. Detroit, while talented, lacks the necessary cohesion and experience to counter the Knicks’ defensive schemes, especially in the high-pressure moments that playoff basketball demands. Even with Cade Cunningham leading the charge, Detroit’s inability to defend at the critical junctures will be their undoing."
Action Network: Knicks win and cover
Joe Dellera writes, "Jalen Brunson tweaked his ankle but was still a killer in this game. Ausar Thompson was asked how he felt covering Brunson, and he didn't think there were any issues. He picked up two relatively soft fouls, and that's where Brunson will continue to get the benefit of the doubt from the refs. If the Pistons need to commit more resources to Brunson, it should open up more for Karl-Anthony Towns."
Pistons vs. Knicks Game 2 odds
The New York Knicks are favorites over the Detroit Pistons heading into Game 2 of their 2025 NBA playoffs first-round series, according to BetMGM
BetMGM odds as of 12 p.m. ET on Monday, April 21
- Spread: Knicks (-6.5)
- Moneyline: Knicks (-285); Pistons (+225)
- Over/under: 221.5
Knicks vs. Pistons series odds update
The New York Knicks remain the favorites to win their 2025 NBA playoffs first-round series over the Detroit Pistons after winning Game 1.
- Series winner: Knicks (-700); Pistons (+500)
Knicks vs. Pistons: NBA playoffs schedule, time, TV channel, live streaming
The Eastern Conference first-round series between the New York Knicks and Detroit Pistons moves on with Game 2 on Monday, April 21 at Madison Square Garden. The game will be broadcast nationally by TNT. ESPN, ABC and TNT are all scheduled to broadcast games during the series, which could last as long as two weeks with a potential Game 7 slated for Saturday, May 3. The Knicks currently lead the series, 1-0.
Here's the updated schedule for Knicks vs. Pistons. All times listed are Eastern.
- Game 1: Knicks 123, Pistons 112
- Game 2: Pistons at Knicks | Monday, April 21 | 7:30 p.m. | TNT, Sling TV
- Game 3: Knicks at Pistons | Thursday, April 24 | 7 p.m. | TNT, Sling TV
- Game 4: Knicks at Pistons | Sunday, April 27 | 1 p.m. | ABC, Fubo
- Game 5: Pistons at Knicks | Tuesday, April 29, TBD | TBD*
- Game 6: Knicks at Pistons | Thursday, May 1, TBD | TBD*
- Game 7: Pistons at Knicks | Saturday, May 3, TBD | TBD*
*if necessary
Watch Knicks vs. Pistons Game 2 with Sling TV