Detroit Pistons vs New York Knicks Prediction, Odds & Picks | 02.19.26
Detroit Pistons
New York Knicks
Game Spread
Total Points
Tale of the Tape
Key Matchup: Top Scorers
C. Cunningham
J. Brunson
Detailed Analysis
Detroit Pistons vs New York Knicks Prediction, Odds & NBA Picks | 02.19.26
This February 19th showdown at Madison Square Garden features a high-stakes battle for Eastern Conference supremacy. The league-leading Detroit Pistons (40-13) travel to the world’s most famous arena to face a resilient New York Knicks (35-20) squad. With both teams positioned for deep playoff runs, this matchup serves as a critical barometer for postseason readiness.
Detroit Pistons vs New York Knicks Matchup Preview
Detroit Pistons Key Stats & Trends
The Pistons have emerged as the NBA’s biggest surprise, fueled by the elite playmaking of Cade Cunningham. Cunningham is orchestrating the offense with surgical precision, averaging 25.3 PPG and 9.6 APG. Complementing his scoring is the defensive versatility of Ausar Thompson, who contributes 6.0 RPG and provides the length necessary to disrupt elite wings. Detroit’s ability to switch defensively and push the pace in transition has made them the most efficient road team in the league this season.
Injury Report Detroit Pistons
- Ronald Holland II (Out): Holland (personal) is out for Wednesday’s game against the Raptors.
New York Knicks Key Stats & Trends
New York remains a formidable opponent behind the leadership of Jalen Brunson, who continues his All-NBA caliber season with 27.0 PPG and 6.1 APG. The addition of Karl-Anthony Towns has provided elite spacing and rebounding, with Towns cleaning the glass at a rate of 11.9 RPG. However, the Knicks’ depth is currently under fire, and their defensive identity is being tested without their primary perimeter stopper.
Injury Report New York Knicks
- OG Anunoby (Out): Head coach Mike Brown said Wednesday that Anunoby (toe) is day-to-day entering the All-Star Break.
- Miles McBride (Out): McBride will undergo surgery for a core muscle injury and may be sidelined until the playoffs.
Detroit Pistons vs New York Knicks Prediction & Best Bet
The absence of OG Anunoby is the deciding factor here, as it leaves the Knicks without a primary defender to slow down Cunningham. Furthermore, without Miles McBride, the Knicks’ second unit lacks the defensive spark needed to contain Detroit’s bench. While the Garden crowd will be electric, the Pistons’ 40-13 record isn’t a fluke; they are the more complete team right now.
Expect a physical, slow-paced encounter typical of a Tom Thibodeau-coached game, which favors the lower total. Our definitive pick is the Detroit Pistons +4.5 (Spread) and the under on the 222.5 total points line.
Last 5 Games: DET
| Opponent | Result | Points | Rebounds | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| @ Toronto | W 113-95 | Cunningham 28 | Harris 12 | Cunningham 9 |
| @ Charlotte | W 110-104 | Cunningham 33 | Cunningham 9 | Cunningham 7 |
| vs New York | W 118-80 | Jenkins 18 | Harris 6 | Cunningham 7 |
| vs Washington | L 126-117 | Cunningham 30 | Holland II 10 | Cunningham 8 |
| vs Denver | W 124-121 | Cunningham 29 | Duren 13 | Cunningham 10 |
Last 5 Games: NY
| Opponent | Result | Points | Rebounds | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| @ Philadelphia | W 138-89 | Alvarado 26 | Towns 11 | Hart 9 |
| vs Indiana | L 137-134 OT | Brunson 40 | Towns 14 | Hart 11 |
| @ Boston | W 111-89 | Brunson 31 | Towns 10 | Brunson 8 |
| @ Detroit | L 118-80 | Bridges 19 | Hukporti 7 | Clarkson 5 |
| vs Denver | W 134-127 2OT | Brunson 42 | Towns 12 | Brunson 9 |
Written by Matt Dorsey
Matt Dorsey turned his obsession with sports into a career five years ago, and he hasn't looked back. By combining a fan's passion with a veteran’s analytical eye, Matt provides reliable insights for the NBA, NHL, and NFL. He knows you’re looking for more than just a pick; you’re looking for a reason to trust the play. That’s why his work is always transparent, researched, and rooted in five years of proven results.
