The NBA Playoffs continue in Madison Square Garden as the New York Knicks host the Detroit Pistons in Game 2 of their first-round series. Detroit enters as a heavy underdog after a tough regular season, while the Knicks look to start their playoff push on a strong note. Below are our Pistons vs Knicks predictions and picks, including model insights, injury updates, and the best odds to bet on.

Preview of Pistons vs Knicks Prediction

The Knicks are laying 6.5 points at home, and our model thinks this game could be closer than the line suggests. Despite a brutal record down the stretch, Detroit has the talent to keep it within the number—especially if New York starts slow.

Model Score Prediction:

Knicks 114.0, Pistons 108.4

That tight 5.6-point projected margin puts the Pistons +6.5 in play, especially with multiple books offering it at discounted juice. Pistons +6.5 is one of our top Pistons vs Knicks best bets for Game 1.

Who is Favored to Win Pistons vs Knicks?

The Knicks are the clear favorite with every sportsbook listing them between -6.5 and -7.0. Our Pistons vs Knicks prediction sees New York winning, but not by a large enough margin to cover the current number with confidence.

If you’re betting the Pistons vs Knicks odds, there’s a small edge in grabbing the underdog with the points.

Injury Reports for Pistons vs Knicks

Pistons Injuries:

• Isaiah Stewart (Knee) – Day to Day
• Jaden Ivey (Leg) – Out

Knicks Injuries:
Not reported on the provided screenshots, assumed full health

Detroit is banged up in the frontcourt and missing a key perimeter scorer in Ivey. While this dings their upside, it’s already baked into the number. These updates are reflected in our Pistons vs Knicks prediction.

Pistons vs Knicks Betting Trends

Against the Spread (Last 5 Games):

• Pistons: 1-4 ATS
• Knicks: 3-2 ATS

Home/Away ATS Splits:

• Pistons Away: 0-2 ATS
• Knicks Home: 2-1 ATS

Dog/Favorite ATS Trends:

• Pistons as Underdog: 0-1 ATS
• Knicks as Favorite: 2-1 ATS

Detroit has been one of the worst teams ATS overall, while New York has covered two of three at home. These trends support Knicks backers, but the model still shows a razor-thin edge for Detroit against the spread.

Model Used for Pistons vs Knicks Best Bets

This model is a pre-built NBA betting algorithm that adjusts for injury status, team efficiency, recent form, and advanced metrics. It gives Detroit a 52.5% chance to cover the +6.5 spread—just enough to justify backing the dog.

If you’re looking for smart, data-driven Pistons vs Knicks picks, the model leans Detroit +6.5.

Best Odds for Pistons vs Knicks

To maximize your value on this Game 1 matchup, here are the best Pistons vs Knicks odds for Detroit +6.5:

• Bet365: +6.5 (-105)
• MGM: +6.5 (-105)
• William Hill: +6.5 (-105)

Line Shopping Tip: If you're taking the Pistons, grab them at -105 odds at any of the above books rather than laying standard juice elsewhere.

My Pick for Pistons vs Knicks

Pick: Pistons +6.5 (-105 at Bet365, MGM, or William Hill)

The Knicks are the better team—but laying nearly 7 points in a Game 1 against a team with nothing to lose can be dicey. The model projects a 5-6 point win, and Detroit has just enough to sneak inside the number.

Explore More Pistons vs Knicks Predictions

Looking for more AI-powered predictions? Check out:

• AI Sports Betting insights for smarter decision-making.
• NBA AI Sports Predictions for advanced game insights.
• Computer NBA Picks for expert computer-driven predictions.
• NBA PrizePicks for AI PrizePick predictions.
• AI NBA Player Props for deeper in-game data

Want to take your betting skills to the next level? Learn how using AI to predict to NBA playoffs can help you beat the books!

This AI sports betting analysis is just a glimpse of what you can expect when using Rithmm. Whether you’re looking to refine your betting strategy or want to explore in-depth data trends, Rithmm's AI tools for sports betting has all you need. Don't miss out on making more informed decisions—download the Rithmm app today for full access to our AI basketball predictions, NBA Computer Picks, AI Player Props, and custom sports betting models.