New York Knicks vs Detroit Pistons – NBA Playoffs Round 1 Game 2 Prediction – April 22, 2025 – Madison Square Garden

The energy inside Madison Square Garden will be electric once again as the New York Knicks host the Detroit Pistons for Game 2 of their first-round NBA Playoff series on April 22, 2025. After a dominant Game 1 showing, the Knicks are looking to protect home court and take a commanding 2-0 lead, while the Pistons aim to regroup and even the series.

Game Preview: Knicks Building Momentum

The Knicks’ balanced attack in Game 1 showcased exactly why they earned home-court advantage in this matchup. Jalen Brunson continues to anchor the offense with poise, while Julius Randle’s physicality in the paint remains a mismatch problem for Detroit. Josh Hart and Donte DiVincenzo provide grit and defensive pressure, which stifled the Pistons’ backcourt for most of the first contest.

Detroit’s youth showed in the opener, but there’s talent to respect. Cade Cunningham must be more aggressive in attacking the rim, and Jaden Ivey has to knock down shots early to build rhythm. The Pistons will also need big minutes from their bench to stay competitive, especially on the road.

Betting Insight

Oddsmakers again favor the Knicks, with the spread hovering around -7.5. Total points are projected in the low 220s, consistent with Game 1 trends. If you’re into ev betting, watch for value in the rebound and assist markets, especially with how physical the Knicks play around the rim.

Sharp bettors using arbitrage betting techniques could explore first-quarter or first-half lines, as the Knicks often start strong at home. Those tracking offshore sportsbook lines may find pricing edges on player prop overs for Brunson or under bets for Detroit’s shooting percentages.

And for those engaging in crypto betting, the Knicks’ Game 1 performance has made them a popular early pick on major bitcoin sportsbook platforms.

Final Prediction

The Knicks are dialed in and feeding off the Garden crowd. Unless the Pistons make major adjustments in transition defense and perimeter shooting, New York should handle business again in Game 2.

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