The New York Knicks secured a hard-fought 116–113 victory over the Detroit Pistons in Game 6, clinching their first-round playoff series 4–2. The win was headlined by a historic performance from Jalen Brunson, who once again proved indispensable in crunch time.
Fellow Knicks star Karl-Anthony Towns responded to the effort with a simple, yet powerful five-word message on social media: “On notice, his tweet read.” he posted on X (formerly Twitter).
Towns played a pivotal role throughout the series, helping the Knicks advance past a Detroit squad that shocked many with their resilience this postseason. His chemistry with Brunson—especially in the pick-and-roll—was critical to the Knicks’ offensive rhythm, a connection that carried over seamlessly into the playoffs.
Brunson draws Jordan comparisons with dominant Game 6
Brunson’s Game 6 showing drew widespread praise across the NBA world, with ESPN’s Mike Greenberg going so far as to call it “Jordanesque” during an appearance on Get Up. Analyst Alan Hahn added that Brunson has already established himself as “arguably the greatest postseason performer in Knicks franchise history.”
Jalen Brunson #11 of the New York Knicks celebrates after making a three-point basket late during the fourth quarter against the Detroit Pistons in Game Six of the Eastern Conference First Round NBA Playoffs.
The numbers back it up: Brunson scored 40 points, grabbed 4 rebounds, and dished out 7 assists in 42 minutes on the floor. He recorded 30 or more points in five of the six games in the series and had at least 7 assists in every contest. His combination of scoring and playmaking has become the engine of the Knicks’ postseason offense against Pistons.
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Cade Cunningham matches Luka Doncic, Oscar Robertson’s feat despite Detroit’s early playoff exit
What must the Knicks do to defeat the Celtics?
Next up for the Knicks: the defending champion Boston Celtics, a team loaded with depth, talent, and postseason experience. The Celtics are seeking back-to-back titles and present perhaps the toughest challenge in this year’s playoffs.
Still, the Knicks have shown they can battle with anyone. Their physical, no-quit mentality has made them a tough out, and Brunson‘s leadership is central to that identity.
NBA Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal highlighted Brunson as the x-factor if New York hopes to upset Boston. “Growing up a fan, he watched superstars do great things, and Brunson showed us what a superstar looks like tonight,” O’Neal said on TNT. “Now, he has his hands full—but if he can play like this four out of seven games, giving 35 to 40 points, the Knicks have a chance.”
