Two days after the Knicks used an impressive return of the fourth quarter and 21-0 running to attack first in their series against the Pistons, they could not replicate the same magic.
The Knicks set up a similar return after continuing for up to 13 points in the final painting, and Mikal Bridges had the opportunity to tie the game with a triple with 11 seconds, but fell, 100-94, Detroit in game 2.
Dennis Schröder hit a triple triple to give Detroit the late advantage.
Gift Cunningham led the Pistons with 33 points, while the Knicks could not match Detroit’s physical when Karl-Anthony Towns and Og Anunoby fought offensively.
Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 37 points.
The first round series now returns to Detroit for a couple of games, starting with game 3 on Thursday.