Part 2/8:
From the very beginning, the Knicks' defensive integrity was compromised. The Pistons set an aggressive tone with their first play, scoring an uncontested three-pointer by Tim Hardaway Jr. This early success catalyzed a consistent stream of open shots for the Pistons. Key players like Cade Cunningham and Jaden Ivey easily penetrated the Knicks' defensive lines, identifying opportunities to create open shots. The most damaging shooter on the night was Malik Beasley, who hit a staggering seven three-pointers, many coming on poor closeouts or no closeouts at all by the Knicks' defense.