NBA playoff drama intensified overnight with two compelling contests that showcased elite talent and high-stakes basketball.
The New York Knicks officially punched their ticket to the next round with a hard-fought 116-113 victory over the Detroit Pistons, clinching the series 4-2. Jalen Brunson delivered a masterclass performance, pouring in 40 points while adding 7 assists across 42 minutes of action. The Knicks' balanced attack also featured strong contributions from Mikal Bridges (25 points) and OG Anunoby (22 points), while Karl-Anthony Towns secured a double-double with 10 points and 15 rebounds.
Detroit showed remarkable resilience despite the elimination, with Cade Cunningham nearly recording a triple-double (23 points, 7 rebounds, 8 assists) and Jalen Duren adding 21 points. The game featured significant momentum swings, with the Knicks dominating the first and third quarters while Detroit controlled the second period.
Meanwhile, in Los Angeles, the Clippers forced a decisive Game 7 against the Denver Nuggets with a tense 111-105 victory that leveled their series at 3-3. James Harden led the charge with 28 points and 8 assists, continuing his intriguing duel with Denver's Nikola Jokic. Kawhi Leonard contributed a double-double (27 points, 10 rebounds), while Norman Powell provided crucial scoring with 24 points.
According to Statbet, teams forcing Game 7 after trailing in playoff series have historically won approximately 40% of decisive contests, setting up an intriguing finale for the Clippers-Nuggets matchup.
The Nuggets' effort was spearheaded by reigning MVP Jokic, who tallied 25 points alongside 7 rebounds and 8 assists. Jamal Murray added 21 points with 8 rebounds and 8 assists, while Russell Westbrook provided spark off the bench with a triple-double-like performance (14 points, 10 rebounds, 6 assists).
With the Knicks now awaiting their next opponent and the Clippers-Nuggets series heading to a winner-takes-all conclusion, NBA playoff intensity continues to build toward championship contention.
