The New York Knicks currently lead the Detroit Pistons 2-1 in their 2025 Eastern Conference first-round playoff series. The No. 6 seed Pistons aim to even the series against the No. 3 seed Knicks when they host Game 4 on Sunday afternoon.
Detroit managed to split the initial two games held at Madison Square Garden, but New York regained the series advantage with a road victory in Game 3. The Knicks built a substantial 13-point lead by halftime and successfully fended off a late push from Detroit on Thursday. The series is set to return to New York for Game 5 on Tuesday night.
Tipoff for Sunday`s Game 4 is scheduled for 1 p.m. ET at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit. According to the latest betting lines, the Pistons are favored by 2 points, with the over/under for total points set at 217. The moneyline has Detroit at -133.
For those seeking expert insights, an advanced computer model that simulates every NBA game provides predictions for this matchup. This model has a strong track record, generating significant profit on its top-rated NBA picks over the past six-plus seasons.
Key betting lines for the Knicks vs. Pistons Game 4 include:
- Pistons vs. Knicks spread: Pistons -2
- Pistons vs. Knicks over/under: 217 points
- Pistons vs. Knicks money line: Pistons -133, Knicks +112
- Statistical trend: Detroit is 9-2 against the spread (ATS) in their last 11 games versus Atlantic Division opponents.
- Statistical trend: New York is 9-4 ATS in their last 13 games overall.
Why the Pistons Could Cover the Spread
Detroit has demonstrated the ability to bounce back, securing a 100-94 win in Game 2 after losing Game 1. They were significant underdogs in that victory, powered by Cade Cunningham`s impressive 33 points and 12 rebounds. Tobias Harris (15 points, 13 rebounds) and Jalen Duren (12 points, 13 rebounds) also contributed double-doubles.
In Game 3, Cunningham again led the team in scoring with 24 points. Guard Tim Hardaway Jr. matched that total, notably hitting seven three-pointers. The Pistons have a recent history of covering the spread against New York, doing so in four of their last six meetings. Playing at home and facing elimination from being down 3-1 adds extra motivation for Detroit to perform strongly on Sunday.
Why the Knicks Could Cover the Spread
New York has successfully covered the spread in both games they`ve won in this series, including their 123-112 Game 1 victory. The Knicks sealed that win with a decisive 21-0 run in the fourth quarter, featuring Jalen Brunson`s 34 points and eight assists. Brunson has maintained his scoring momentum throughout the series, adding 37 points in Game 2 and 30 points in Game 3.
Forward Karl-Anthony Towns delivered a strong performance in Game 3 with 31 points and eight rebounds. Small forwards OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges also had significant contributions, combining for 42 points and nine rebounds, showcasing a balanced offensive effort from New York. The Knicks have been strong against the spread overall, covering in nine of their last 13 contests.
Prediction Insights for Pistons vs. Knicks
Analysis from a detailed computer simulation model provides guidance for betting on this game. The model`s projections lean towards the total score staying Under the set line of 217, estimating around 215 points. The model has also identified a preferred side against the spread that it considers the better value bet.
To get a definitive pick for the Knicks vs. Pistons Game 4 and determine which side of the spread offers the best value, consulting projections from proven statistical models is recommended. These models have a history of profitable NBA picks.
Jasper Hawthorne