PREVIEW: The Detroit Pistons bring their high-octane rim attack, ranked 5th in frequency by ShotQuality metrics, to Madison Square Garden for a playoff showdown against Jalen Brunson and the New York Knicks. After tripling their win total from last season to secure the sixth seed with a 44-38 record, Detroit enters their first postseason appearance since 2019 having won three of four regular season matchups against New York. The Pistons' success stems from Cade Cunningham's breakout campaign, as he averaged a career-high 26.1 points per game while particularly excelling against the Knicks with 31 points per contest in their matchups. Despite ranking 4th in good defense against shots at the rim, Detroit faces a Knicks squad that counters with the 2nd most efficient three-point shooting in the league according to ShotQuality data. New York, despite their struggles against Detroit, brings playoff experience and a formidable starting lineup featuring Towns, Brunson, and Bridges to this opening round series. The Knicks' efficient transition offense (ranked 3rd) and excellent free throw shooting (80.0%, 5th in the league) should provide advantages in close game situations, though their slow tempo (26th) could factor prominently in the matchup dynamics. Brunson, who averaged 30.3 points across 24 playoff games with the Knicks, will look to neutralize Detroit's defensive strengths by capitalizing on New York's high frequency of midrange attempts (5th in the league). The series opener at Madison Square Garden promises an intriguing battle between a young, hungry Pistons team and a Knicks squad looking to advance beyond the first round for the third consecutive year.