NBA Playoffs: Knicks, Timberwolves, Celtics, and Pacers grab game 4 Wins
The intensity of the NBA playoffs reached fever pitch Sunday as the Knicks, Timberwolves, Celtics, and Pacers all capitalized on Game 4 matchups, each moving within one victory of advancing to the next round. Each team that entered the day with a 2-1 series lead successfully defended thier advantage, setting the stage for potentially decisive Game 5s.
Knicks Edge Past pistons in Nail-biter
In a tightly contested battle, the New York Knicks escaped Detroit with a 94-93 victory. Jalen Brunson’s return from an ankle injury provided a spark,but it was karl-Anthony Towns who delivered crucial shots down the stretch,scoring six of the team’s final eight points as part of a 27-point performance. The Pistons had two opportunities to seize the lead in the final seconds but were unable to convert, allowing New York to secure the win.
our fearless leader 🫡 pic.twitter.com/k82lig7RNo
— NEW YORK KNICKS (@nyknicks) April 27, 2025
Timberwolves Mount Comeback to Defend Home Court Against Lakers
The minnesota Timberwolves orchestrated a remarkable comeback to defeat the Los Angeles Lakers 116-113. trailing heading into the fourth quarter, Minnesota’s Naz Reid, Julius Randle, and anthony Edwards spearheaded the rally. Edwards exploded for 41 points, while a series of late-game execution errors proved costly for Los Angeles. The Lakers, the series’ third seed, now face the threat of a first-round upset.
SECOND-BIGGEST PLAYOFF COMEBACK IN FRANCHISE HISTORY pic.twitter.com/aSdkZ3PGFH
— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) April 27, 2025
celtics Overpower Magic, Extend Series Lead
The Boston Celtics solidified their series lead with a 107-98 victory over the Orlando Magic. Jayson Tatum led the charge for Boston.
Pacers Dominate Bucks, Close in on Series Win
The indiana Pacers delivered a dominant performance, defeating the Milwaukee Bucks 129-103. indiana’s balanced attack and stifling defense proved too much for Milwaukee, pushing the Pacers to the brink of advancing.
Sunday’s Playoff Scores:
- Knicks 94, Pistons 93
- Timberwolves 116, Lakers 113
- Celtics 107, magic 98
- Pacers 129, Bucks 103
Celtics, Pacers Seize Control in NBA Playoffs
The Boston Celtics and Indiana Pacers took critically important steps toward advancing in the NBA playoffs Monday night, showcasing dominant performances that underscored their championship aspirations.
Pacers Dominate bucks, Lillard Injury Looms Large
The Indiana Pacers delivered a resounding performance, leading from start to finish in their game against the Milwaukee Bucks. The Pacers’ sharp play and depth proved too much for milwaukee, compounded by a potentially significant injury to Damian Lillard. Lillard exited the game early with a non-contact lower leg injury, casting a shadow over the Bucks’ future, both in the series and potentially beyond. An update on Lillard’s condition is expected in the coming days.
PACERS WIN AND TAKE A 3-1 SERIES LEAD!!!
Game 5: Tuesday, 4/29 at 6:00pm/et on NBA TV#NBAPlayoffs presented by Google pic.twitter.com/mFSJByU0Tm
— NBA (@NBA) April 28, 2025
Tyrese Haliburton orchestrated the Pacers’ offence with 17 points and 15 assists, while Andrew Nembhard and Jarace walker each contributed four 3-pointers.
Game 5 on tuesday. pic.twitter.com/HHNpuGX9pG
— Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) April 28, 2025
Tatum’s Leadership Guides Celtics Past Magic
Jayson Tatum demonstrated his ability to rise to the occasion, leading the Boston Celtics to a crucial victory over the Orlando Magic. With the game tied at 91, Tatum’s playmaking and scoring lifted the Celtics, who were without Jrue Holiday for another game. The Celtics now have an prospect to close out the series at home.
Back to back 30 ball 🥶 pic.twitter.com/DJweyGaowJ
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) April 28,2025
Pacers’ Two-Way Dominance Fuels Playoff surge Against Bucks
INDIANAPOLIS — The Indiana Pacers showcased a blend of stifling defense and explosive offense to extend their lead against the Milwaukee Bucks in Game 4 of their playoff series on April 28,2025.Key defensive plays led to transition opportunities as the Pacers aim for a commanding 3-1 series lead.
Defense Ignites Offense for Indiana
The Pacers turned heads with electrifying plays on both ends of the court in the third quarter. Center Myles Turner continued his impressive shot-blocking performance, while forward Aaron Nesmith made a remarkable chasedown block on Milwaukee’s Bobby Portis, leading to a fast-break opportunity finished by Tyrese Haliburton through a foul.
NESMITH STUFF.
HALIBURTON AND-1.Astonishing sequence from the Pacers 🤯
IND (2-1) MIL | Game 4 | TNT pic.twitter.com/apnhcvkthi
— NBA (@NBA) April 28, 2025
Myles Turner denies ’em for the third time tonight and Andrew Nembhard knocks down his third triple 👏 pic.twitter.com/mPu0rzWYaS
— Indiana Pacers (@Pacers) April 28, 2025
Turner Unleashes Dominant Dunk
Myles Turner set the tone early in the third quarter with a one-handed dunk over Milwaukee’s Giannis Antetokounmpo, energizing the Pacers and electrifying the crowd.
MYLES TURNER MY GOODNESS 💥💥
WINDS UP AND PUTS DOWN THE POSTER SLAM!!!
Pacers/Bucks | game 4 | TNT pic.twitter.com/W0GTPzXE1t
— NBA (@NBA) april 28, 2025
Bucks’ Bench Provides Spark
Milwaukee’s reserves outscored their starters 32-18 in the first half. Kevin Porter Jr. led the Bucks with 15 points, providing a crucial boost off the bench.
Pacers Lead Bucks at Halftime as lillard Exits Game with Leg Injury
Updated April 28, 2025
INDIANAPOLIS — The Indiana Pacers hold a commanding 63-52 lead over the Milwaukee Bucks at halftime of Game 4, but the Bucks suffered a significant blow as Damian Lillard was ruled out for the remainder of the contest with a lower left leg injury.
Bucks Star Damian Lillard Out with Leg Injury
Lillard went down with approximately 6 minutes remaining in the first quarter while reaching for an offensive rebound. The non-contact injury forced him to the ground, and he was afterward helped to the locker room by Bucks personnel. the team later announced that he would not return to the game.
Damian Lillard (left lower leg injury) will not return to tonight’s game.
— Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) April 28, 2025
Pacers’ Strong First Half Performance
The Pacers capitalized on Lillard’s absence, building on a strong first quarter. Myles Turner started strong for Indiana, while T.J.McConnell provided a spark off the bench.
playing with pace 👏 pic.twitter.com/Dg0sI7sNzu
— Indiana Pacers (@Pacers) April 28, 2025
T.J. McConnell fires a cross-court dime to Obi Toppin, who drills the three. pic.twitter.com/n4EvGQ7ksN
— Indiana Pacers (@Pacers) april 28, 2025
T.J. McConnell goes coast-to-coast and finishes strong 😤 pic.twitter.com/89dG9HIKjY
— Indiana Pacers (@Pacers) April 28, 2025
KPJ with the tough 2.
Haliburton with the stepback 3.Pacers/Bucks battling in Game 4 on TNT 🍿 pic.twitter.com/GVPlElSUHD
— NBA (@NBA) april 28, 2025
celtics Surge Ahead, Bucks Host Pacers in Pivotal Game 4
BOSTON (AP) — Jayson Tatum’s stellar performance propelled the Boston Celtics to a crucial Game 4 victory over the Orlando Magic, while the Milwaukee Bucks prepared to host the Indiana Pacers in a Sunday night showdown. Tatum’s late-game heroics have put the Magic on the brink of elimination, while the bucks aim to capitalize on home-court advantage after the Pacers secured their first win of the series.
Tatum’s 37 Points Leads celtics to 3-1 Series Lead
Jayson Tatum poured in 37 points, including key shots in the final minutes, as the Boston Celtics defeated the Orlando Magic in Game 4 on Sunday. The celtics’ 16-7 run late in the fourth quarter sealed the victory, giving them a commanding 3-1 series lead as they head back to Boston. The Magic now face an uphill battle to stay alive in the playoffs.
TATUM’S GOT 30 🔥🔥
couldn’t come at a bigger time for boston!
BOS-ORL | 4Q | Game 4 | TNT pic.twitter.com/Ts9PNQ3UEx
— NBA (@NBA) April 28, 2025
bucks, Pacers Face Off in High-Stakes Game 4
The Milwaukee Bucks hosted the Indiana Pacers on Sunday night, looking to regain control of their series. The Pacers, fresh off their Game 3 win, aimed to even the series. Brook Lopez set the tone early for the Bucks with a strong defensive play, blocking a Pascal Siakam shot attempt.
Get that out of here! pic.twitter.com/LZG8Oy1ZVh
— milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) April 28, 2025
Starting Lineups Announced
Both teams released their starting lineups prior to tip-off. the Bucks looked to their starters to establish dominance at home, while the Pacers hoped their lineup would continue the momentum from their previous victory.
who’s starting it off on Sunday night ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/0dP2v5cr62
— Indiana Pacers (@Pacers) April 28, 2025
First five for Game 4. pic.twitter.com/ktDJf4Dcoa
— Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) April 28, 2025
Celtics and Magic Grind Out a Close Game 4
ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — The Boston celtics and Orlando Magic are locked in a tight battle in Game 4 of their playoff series, with the outcome hanging in the balance as they enter the final quarter. The defending champion Celtics are fighting to avoid consecutive road losses against the seventh-seeded Magic in what has been a physical and closely contested matchup.
Game Tied Late as Magic battle Back
With just over four minutes remaining, Wendell Carter Jr.’s putback tied the game at 91, prompting a Boston timeout. Both teams are now in a race against the clock, vying to outlast the other in regulation. The game’s intensity mirrors the earlier contests of the day, suggesting a nail-biting finish.
WENDELL CARTER JR pic.twitter.com/ZunMgzAKjZ
— Orlando Magic (@OrlandoMagic) April 28,2025
Porzingis’ Impact,Foul Trouble a Key Factor
Kristaps Porzingis demonstrated his athleticism with an impressive putback slam,compensating for an earlier missed alley-oop attempt. He also drew a foul on Paolo Banchero while finishing strong, sending himself to the free-throw line to put Boston ahead by three and stall Orlando’s momentum.
Though, Porzingis also found himself in foul trouble, heading to the bench with nine minutes left in the fourth quarter after drawing his fifth personal foul. The foul came on an and-one finish by Franz Wagner, pulling the Magic within two points at 84-82.
KP THROWS IT DOWN 🤯 pic.twitter.com/26TyWjUEl5
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) April 28, 2025
Defensive Plays Shine
Al Horford showcased his defensive prowess with a key block, contributing to Boston’s efforts to maintain their lead. The Celtics’ defensive intensity will be crucial in the closing minutes.
⚠️ BLOCK ZONE ⚠️ pic.twitter.com/rHZZAnUFUP
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) April 28, 2025
Key Players
Through three quarters, Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown combined for 40 points for Boston. However, Paolo Banchero led all scorers with 25 points, spearheading the Magic’s offensive efforts.
Celtics vs. Magic: Tensions Rise as Boston leads
The Boston Celtics are currently leading the orlando Magic in a heated matchup, fueled by standout performances and a moment of physical play. Jayson Tatum leads the Celtics with 15 points, while Paolo Banchero tops the scoring chart with 18 for the Magic. A hard foul by Wendell Carter Jr. on Derrick White sparked a brief scuffle, ultimately resulting in a common foul. The Celtics hold a narrow 58-56 lead with eight minutes remaining in the third quarter.
Physical Play Intensifies Celtics-Magic Game
A hard foul committed by Orlando Magic’s Wendell Carter Jr. on boston Celtics guard Derrick White ignited a brief altercation between the two teams. Referees reviewed the play to determine if a flagrant foul was warranted but ultimately assessed a common foul. White made only one of two free throws after the foul.
Tatum, banchero Lead Scoring Efforts
Jayson Tatum is spearheading Boston’s offense, accumulating a team-high 15 points by halftime, including a step-back three pointer that extended the Celtics’ lead. Paolo Banchero of the Orlando Magic has a game-high 18 points by halftime keeping Orlando in contention.
Early Lead Changes hands
The Orlando Magic came out strong, grabbing an early eight-point lead. However, the Boston Celtics quickly responded, demonstrating the game’s back-and-forth nature.
magic-Celtics Game 4: Black’s Buzzer-Beater and Banchero’s Dominance Highlight Early action
ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — The Orlando Magic and Boston Celtics tipped off Game 4 of their series with high intensity, featuring stellar plays from both sides. Anthony Black’s buzzer-beating layup capped off a back-and-forth first quarter, while Paolo Banchero showcased his scoring prowess and defensive capabilities early on.
Black Steals the Show with Buzzer-Beating Layup
Anthony Black injected momentum into the Magic’s game with a coast-to-coast layup at the end of the first quarter, sending the crowd into a frenzy.
Anthony Black takes it coast-to-coast for the buzzer-beating bucket 🔥
Celtics/Magic in an early battle in Game 4 on TNT! pic.twitter.com/ak66i7HGoO
— NBA (@NBA) April 27, 2025
Tatum’s Triple Fuels Celtics’ Run
Jayson Tatum’s three-pointer was a key part of an 11-0 Celtics run, demonstrating the offensive firepower Boston brings to the court.
The Tatum triple was part of an 11-0 Celtics run 👀
We’re going back and forth in the first quarter of Game 4 on TNT!#NBAPlayoffs presented by Google pic.twitter.com/UD6oEOCQix
— NBA (@NBA) April 27, 2025
Paolo Banchero’s Dominance continues
Paolo Banchero is expected to have another significant performance, averaging 32.3 points through the first three games of his second postseason appearance. He scored nine first-quarter points, capitalizing on multiple free-throw opportunities. His defensive contributions were also on display early, highlighted by a notable block.
Paolo with the block
Paolo with the and1 😤 pic.twitter.com/SDJqB1w4uk— Orlando Magic (@OrlandoMagic) April 27, 2025
Starting Lineups: Brown Suits Up for Celtics
Jaylen Brown, initially questionable due to a knee injury, is in the Celtics’ starting lineup. However, Boston remains without Jrue Holiday.
Tonight’s Starting 5️⃣@draftkings pic.twitter.com/knICT9h3VT
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) April 27, 2025
Timberwolves Defeat Lakers, Take Commanding 3-1 Series Lead
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Anthony Edwards scored 43 points, including clutch free throws in the final seconds, as the Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the los Angeles Lakers 116-113 on Sunday to take a 3-1 lead in their playoff series.
Edwards’ Heroics Lead Timberwolves to Victory
Edwards dominated down the stretch, putting up 19 second-half points and sinking two crucial free throws with just 10 seconds remaining to give Minnesota a three-point advantage. The Timberwolves outscored the Lakers 32-19 in the fourth quarter to secure the win.
ANT HITS THE CLUTCH FTS!
TIMEBRWOLVES GET THE STOP ON THE OTHER END!!MINNESOTA TAKES A 3-1 SERIES LEAD 🔥 pic.twitter.com/gCzJIuTpEV
Key Performances
In addition to Edwards’ stellar performance, Randle contributed 25 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 assists for the Timberwolves. Jaden McDaniels recorded a double-double with 16 points and 11 rebounds.
For the Lakers, Luka Doncic led the team with 38 points, while LeBron James stuffed the stat sheet with 27 points, 12 rebounds, 8 assists, 3 steals, and 3 blocks.
Lakers’ Comeback Falls Short
After the Lakers started the second half on an 11-0 run, minnesota responded by tightening their defense and attacking the basket. Austin Reaves had a chance to tie the game at the buzzer, but his corner three-point attempt was unsuccessful.
Orlando Magic’s Starting Five
The Orlando Magic started with their usual lineup in Sunday’s games. the specific opponent and result of their game were unavailable at the time of writing.
first five out let’s get it pic.twitter.com/zz2xZE8VfJ
The Minnesota Timberwolves mounted a comeback against the Los Angeles Lakers, fueled by strong performances from Julius Randle and Anthony Edwards. Despite trailing 90-80 late in the third quarter, Minnesota closed the first half on a 21-12 run, capped by a buzzer-beating three-pointer from Randle.
Randle, Edwards Spark Timberwolves Comeback
Julius Randle led the Timberwolves charge, scoring 21 points in the first half. Anthony Edwards contributed 19 points on 6-for-9 shooting, along with four rebounds and four assists.
High-Scoring First Half Sees Lakers and Timberwolves Trading blows
LeBron James led the Lakers with a game-high 22 points in the first half, shooting 4-for-5 from the field and adding 12 points from the free-throw line. Luka Doncic was close behind with 21 points but had limited contributions in other categories, with only one rebound, one assist, and one steal in the first half.
Three-Point Barrage Highlights Offensive Battle
Both teams showcased their long-range shooting abilities, combining for 34 three-point attempts halfway through the second quarter.Doncic hit three from deep to reach 16 points,while Randle matched him with his second three-pointer of the game,also reaching 16 points.
Knicks Claw Back Victory Against Pistons, Take Commanding 3-1 Series Lead
The New York Knicks secured a thrilling victory over the Detroit Pistons, taking a 3-1 lead in their series. A resilient fourth-quarter performance, highlighted by clutch plays from Karl-Anthony Towns and Jalen Brunson, propelled the Knicks to a narrow win on Sunday.
Towns’ Late-Game Heroics Seal the Deal for New York
Karl-Anthony Towns delivered pivotal baskets down the stretch, scoring 27 points. Towns hit a fadeaway jumper to narrow the deficit and then drained a deep three-pointer that gave the Knicks a 94-93 lead they would not relinquish.
THAT’S A TUFF BASELINE SHOT KARL-ANTHONY TOWNS pic.twitter.com/dBxzDIvDvD
— NEW YORK KNICKS (@nyknicks) April 27, 2025
Brunson leads knicks with 32 Points
Jalen Brunson continued his stellar play, leading the Knicks with 32 points. his consistent scoring and playmaking were crucial in New york’s comeback effort.
Cunningham’s Triple-Double Not Enough for Pistons
Despite a historic performance from Cade Cunningham, the Pistons fell short. Cunningham recorded only the second playoff triple-double in Pistons history with 25 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists. He missed a jump shot in the final seconds to win the game.
KNICKS HANG ON IN WILD ENDING 😱
TAKE 3-1 SERIES LEAD 🗽 pic.twitter.com/V9H4flJmEe
— NBA (@NBA) April 27, 2025
Lakers Take Early Lead Against Timberwolves
In other action, the Los Angeles Lakers hold a 46-40 lead over the Minnesota timberwolves. The Lakers led 32-28 at the end of the first quarter, fueled by strong performances from Luka Dončić and LeBron James.
Dončić and James Power Lakers’ Offense
Luka Dončić got off to a hot start, scoring 13 points in the first quarter. LeBron James added 12 points, showcasing his scoring touch with a tough corner three-pointer.
LeBron hits a fall-away corner triple 👌
Lakers look to even the score against Minnesota in Game 4 pic.twitter.com/e5U1xpgDP2
— NBA TV (@NBATV) April 27, 2025
Randle Leads Timberwolves’ Effort
Julius Randle led the Timberwolves with 13 first-quarter points.
Looking Ahead
the Knicks will look to close out the series against the Pistons on tuesday.
Pistons Surge Ahead of Knicks After Brunson Injury Scare
The Detroit Pistons outscored the New York Knicks 28-14 in the third quarter to take a 71-64 lead heading into the final frame. A Jalen Brunson ankle injury added to the Knicks’ woes, as the Pistons seized momentum.
knicks Struggle as Pistons Take Control in Third Quarter
Detroit’s Cade Cunningham fueled the surge with 12 points in the third quarter, highlighted by a powerful left-handed slam. The Pistons capitalized, building a lead as the Knicks struggled to find their rhythm. Malik Beasley hit two late triples for the Knicks, providing a spark with eight points.
Malik Beasley answers with a triple to close the 3Q ‼️
4th Quarter up next 🍿 pic.twitter.com/gbp5IglsZV
— NBA TV (@NBATV) April 27,2025
Brunson Injury a Concern for New York
The Knicks faced a further setback when Jalen Brunson headed to the locker room with an ankle injury. The severity of his injury is currently unknown, but his absence leaves a significant void in the Knicks’ offense.
WITH THE LEFT 😤
Detroit is ROCKING on ABC.https://t.co/c69Y3RLHgD pic.twitter.com/hx9BojPvMB
— NBA (@NBA) April 27, 2025
Knicks Attempting Late Comeback
With less than six minutes remaining, the Knicks are attempting a comeback. Brunson has returned to the game,attacking the basket in an effort to close the gap. Bridges hit three 3-pointers to aid in the effort.The game can be viewed on ABC.
JB (25 PTS) with ANOTHER tough finish and Spike is loving it 😂
3-point game approaching crunch time on ABC! pic.twitter.com/6pN1gmZKAf
— NBA (@NBA) April 27, 2025
Knicks Lead Pistons at Halftime, Detroit Finishes Strong
Detroit, April 27, 2025 — The New York Knicks hold a 50-43 lead over the Detroit Pistons at halftime of their playoff matchup, but a late 11-2 run by Detroit has shifted the momentum heading into the break. New York’s dominance on the boards and capitalizing on turnovers has defined the first half, but Detroit’s late surge, fueled by aggressive drives to the basket, signals a potentially competitive second half.
Pistons Ignite Offense with Aggressive Play
Detroit closed out the first half with renewed energy,repeatedly attacking the paint.Tobias Harris earned back-to-back and-one opportunities, energizing the crowd. Cade Cunningham then connected with Ausar Thompson for an emphatic alley-oop, capping off the Pistons’ late run.
Cade finds Ausar for the alley-oop 🔥
Detroit ends the half on an 11-2 run 👀 pic.twitter.com/2n5eH5iDhh
— NBA TV (@NBATV) April 27, 2025
Knicks capitalize on Turnovers, Dominate Rebounding
The Knicks have thrived by converting Detroit’s 10 turnovers into points and securing second-chance opportunities with 12 offensive rebounds.Their defensive pressure has disrupted the Pistons’ offensive flow for much of the half.
Individual Performances: Harris Leads Scoring, Towns and Brunson Contribute for New York
Tobias Harris leads all scorers with 14 points, despite shooting 4-for-12. Jalen Duren has been a force on the boards for Detroit, grabbing 11 rebounds to go along with 4 points. Cade Cunningham has struggled, scoring just 6 points on 3-for-9 shooting.
For the Knicks, Karl-Anthony Towns has 13 points, Jalen Brunson has 12, and Josh Hart added 10.
TOBIAS HARRIS HYPING UP THE CROWD 🗣️🔊#NBAPlayoffs presented by Google https://t.co/5DC7Aa9kUG pic.twitter.com/5DC7Aa9kUG
— NBA (@NBA) April 27, 2025
Bridges’ Defensive Presence
Mikal Bridges made a statement defensively, highlighted by a notable block on Ausar Thompson, contributing to New York’s control for a significant portion of the first half.
OKAY MIKAL WE SEE YOU 😳
NYK leading DET on ABC! pic.twitter.com/HkddDUHo4j
— NBA (@NBA) April 27,2025
Cunningham’s Chase-Down Block
Cade Cunningham showcased his defensive prowess with a chase-down block,leading to a basket by Tobias Harris.
Cade CHASEDOWN BLOCK ➡️ Harris bucket
We’ve got a GAME in Detroit 🔥 pic.twitter.com/igP3PXPLF9
— NBA TV (@NBATV) april 27, 2025
Second Half Outlook
As the second half approaches, the Pistons will look to maintain their offensive momentum and tighten up their defense to mitigate turnovers. The Knicks will aim to reassert their dominance on the boards and continue capitalizing on detroit’s mistakes to extend their lead.
Knicks Dominate First quarter, Lead Pistons in Game 4
New York’s hot shooting and stifling defense propel them to an early advantage in Detroit.
DETROIT (AP) — The New York Knicks jumped out to an early lead against the Detroit Pistons in Game 4, fueled by a barrage of three-pointers and capitalizing on Detroit’s turnovers. The Knicks ended the first quarter with a 29-19 lead, putting them in a strong position to potentially take a 3-1 series lead.
Knicks’ Three-Point Barrage Fuels Early Lead
new York’s offense ignited from beyond the arc early, hitting an impressive five of 10 three-point attempts in the first quarter. josh Hart led the charge with two triples, while Miles McBride and Jalen brunson each contributed one. The Knicks’ hot shooting allowed them to build an early 24-12 lead, doubling up the Pistons late in the first.
Duren Battles on the Boards for Detroit
Despite the Knicks’ strong start, Pistons center Jalen duren made his presence felt on the glass. Duren already had nine rebounds and four points in the first quarter, including a putback basket after a Harris miss, trying to keep Detroit within striking distance.
Anunoby’s Energy Sparks Knicks
The Knicks came out with high intensity from the opening tip. Karl-Anthony Towns made an immediate impact with four points and a blocked shot on a Harris layup attempt. The block led to a fast break finished by an emphatic slam from OG Anunoby, giving the Knicks an early 10-8 lead.
Starting Lineups Unchanged
Both teams opted to stick with their familiar starting lineups for this pivotal Game 4 matchup. The Knicks started Jalen brunson, Mikal Bridges, Josh Hart, OG Anunoby, and Karl-Anthony Towns. The Pistons countered with their usual first five.
Knicks vs.Pistons Game 4: Series Heats Up in Detroit
By [Your Name/News Outlet Name]
DETROIT (AP) — The Detroit pistons and New York Knicks face off today in a pivotal Game 4 matchup, with the Knicks leading the series 2-1. Tipoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. ET on ABC.
Series Balance on the Line as Knicks Face Pistons in Game 4
A victory for Detroit would even the series at 2-2, turning it into a best-of-three scenario. Though, a win for New York would give them a commanding 3-1 lead, placing them firmly in control with Game 5 set to be played in New York.
Starting Lineups Announced
The Knicks will start Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, OG Anunoby, Julius Randle, and Isaiah Hartenstein, according to the team’s official proclamation.
Lock in for game four pic.twitter.com/IyUA4KvuUe
— NEW YORK KNICKS (@nyknicks) April 27, 2025
Detroit will counter with a starting five of cade Cunningham, Ausar Thompson, Tim Hardaway Jr.,Tobias Harris,and Jalen Duren,as announced by the pistons.
First five out tonight. @Kia pic.twitter.com/F1xHBwCrZH
— Detroit Pistons (@DetroitPistons) April 27, 2025
key Players Arrive, Warm Up Ahead of Crucial Matchup
Key players including Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Cade Cunningham were seen arriving at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit earlier today. Their performance will be critical to their respective team’s chances of success.
Players Heating Up
Brunson and Towns are coming off strong performances in Game 3, scoring 30 and 31 points, respectively. Cunningham is looking to continue his streak of three consecutive 20+ point double-doubles. As game time approaches, both the Pistons and Knicks are engaged in their pre-game warm-up routines.
🎯 JB: 30 points G3.
🎯 KAT: 31 points in G3.NYK’s two stars warming up from downtown ahead of their 1pm/et Game 4 matchup vs. DET on ABC! pic.twitter.com/ZhC0VgbfEI
— NBA (@NBA) April 27, 2025
Cade has three straight 20+ point double-doubles 🔥
The Pistons look to even the series today at 1:00pm/et on ABC 👀 pic.twitter.com/jb6yZix4vu
— NBA (@NBA) April 27, 2025
Must-Win Scenarios: NBA Playoffs Heat Up with Key game 4 matchups
The NBA playoffs intensify today with critical Game 4 matchups that could define series outcomes. Afternoon action features the New York Knicks battling the Detroit Pistons, followed by the Los Angeles Lakers against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Later,the Boston Celtics face the Orlando Magic in a pivotal evening clash. For teams trailing 2-1, today’s games represent crucial opportunities to avoid a daunting 3-1 series deficit.
Knicks vs. Pistons: Detroit’s Urgency
The Detroit Pistons, after splitting games in New York, lost Game 3 at home and now face a near must-win situation against the Knicks. Tip-off is scheduled for 1 p.m. ET, broadcast on ABC.A loss would put them down 3-1 heading back to Madison Square Garden.
Detroit’s defense needs to contain Jalen Brunson, who has been dominant in fourth quarters, averaging 12.7 points in the series’ final frames. On offense, the Pistons will likely focus on attacking the basket early to put pressure on Karl-Anthony Towns, forcing him to work defensively.
Lakers vs. Timberwolves: Battle for Series Control
The Minnesota Timberwolves, despite being the lower seed, hold a 2-1 series lead over the Los Angeles Lakers. Game 4 provides a prime opportunity to seize a commanding 3-1 advantage on their home court.
For the Lakers to even the series, they need stellar performances from LeBron James and Luka dončić. Historically, both players elevate their play when trailing in playoff series. James averages 29.6 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 8.2 assists when his team is behind, exceeding his career averages. dončić averages 32.1 points, 9.5 rebounds and 7.9 assists when trailing.
Celtics vs. Magic: Boston’s Injury Woes
After the Orlando Magic’s 95-93 victory over the Boston Celtics on Friday, they have an opportunity to even the series tonight. Boston has been plagued by injuries, with Jayson Tatum missing Game 2 and Jrue Holiday Game 3. Holiday is ruled out for tonight’s game, and Jaylen brown is questionable due to a knee injury.
NBA Playoffs: Magic and Bucks Aim to Even Series After Game 3 Victories
The Orlando Magic and Milwaukee Bucks, after staving off 3-0 series deficits with crucial Game 3 wins, look to even their respective best-of-seven series tonight.Both teams face tough challenges against the Boston Celtics and Indiana Pacers, respectively.
Magic Seek to Neutralize Celtics’ Offense
Following their Game 3 victory, the Orlando Magic will attempt to even their series against the Boston Celtics. A key factor for Orlando will be stifling Boston’s perimeter game and three-point shooting. Rebounding dominance, which they achieved for the first time in the series in Game 3, will also be crucial. Another strong performance from Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, who combined for 61 points in Friday’s win, is also vital for Orlando.
Bucks Look for Secondary Scoring to Support Antetokounmpo
The Milwaukee Bucks, echoing orlando’s success, seek to build on their 117-101 victory over the Indiana Pacers. A pivotal move in Game 3 was starting Gary Trent Jr. in place of Taurean Prince. Trent Jr. capitalized on the opportunity, delivering an outstanding performance with 37 points on 11-for-16 shooting.
To secure another win against Indiana, Milwaukee will likely need a significant contribution from someone other than Giannis Antetokounmpo, who has averaged 35.7 points and 14.0 rebounds in the first three games. Damian Lillard,in his third game back from a blood clot,could be that player. Despite his return, Lillard has struggled, shooting just 24% from the field and 18.8% from three in his appearances. If Lillard can rediscover his shooting form, the Pacers will face a far more formidable challenge.