Pistons or Cavaliers? Who should Knicks want in Eastern Conference Finals? | amNewYork

"The Knicks are on an extended break as they prepare for their second consecutive Eastern Conference Finals appearance after a comprehensive, dominant sweep of the Philadelphia 76ers. With at least one week confirmed between games, Mike Brown's men get to watch the Detroit Pistons and the Cleveland Cavaliers duke it out in what is becoming a lengthy, hard-fought series. Entering Game 5 on Wednesday night, the conference semifinal is tied up at two games apiece."

"They were swept by the top-seeded Pistons during the regular season, with blowout losses of 38, 31, and 15 points. They took two of three from the Cavs. Of course, the regular season means next to nothing in the playoffs. Let's take a look. Offense The Pistons have a one-dimensional attack that mostly flows through star guard Cade Cunningham."

"They are not a particularly good three-point shooting team, though their physicality provides more of a throwback feel that has given teams fits this season. Still, Jalen Duren is struggling to find his touch in the postseason, averaging 10.2 points per game compared to 19.5 points per night during the regular season. The rest of the Pistons' supporting staff appears far more manageable on paper for the Knicks' defense."

"Mitchell has been hot of late, posting three straight games of at least 30 points, including 43 in Game 4. Regardless, the Knicks should be feeling good about whoever is put in front of them after shutting down Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid in their second-round sweep of the Sixers. Advantage: Cavaliers Defense The Pistons' physicality makes them a tough matchup for New Yor"

The Knicks enter Game 5 of the Eastern Conference semifinals with the series tied 2-2 and a confirmed week between games. They are coming off a dominant sweep of the Philadelphia 76ers and will watch the Detroit Pistons and Cleveland Cavaliers play a hard-fought series. Detroit’s offense relies heavily on Cade Cunningham and is not strong from three, while Jalen Duren is producing less in the postseason than during the regular season. Cleveland’s offense features Donovan Mitchell’s recent scoring surge and James Harden as a second threat. The Knicks’ defense has already shut down Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid, shaping expectations for either potential opponent.

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