Who Would the 2025-2026 Knicks Rather See in the Eastern Conference Finals
After a victory against the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game Six of the Eastern Conference Semifinals, the Detroit Pistons forced the series to a decisive Game Seven. That outcome leaves the New York Knicks in an unusual position, as they continue waiting to learn who their opponent will be in the Eastern Conference Finals. New York has been one of the hottest teams throughout the NBA Playoffs, winning six consecutive games by an average margin of more than 28 points per contest. Led by all-stars Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, along with the expected return of a healthy OG Anunoby, the Knicks appear prepared for whichever challenge comes next. The biggest question surrounding the Eastern Conference now centers around which Central Division team presents the toughest matchup for New York’s pursuit of the 2026 NBA Finals.
The Detroit Pistons have emerged as one of the biggest surprises of the 2025-2026 regular season. After jumping out to a 2-0 series lead against Cleveland, Detroit watched the Cavaliers respond with three straight victories before reclaiming momentum with a Game Six win. Led by Cade Cunningham, the Pistons have consistently caused problems for the Knicks throughout the season. Detroit finished 3-0 against New York during the regular season, winning those contests by margins of 31, 38, and 15 points. Cunningham has controlled games offensively while also creating opportunities for teammates, proving why many consider him among the league’s elite young stars. Jalen Duren remains a physical force in the paint despite inconsistent postseason production, while Ausar Thompson has become one of the most disruptive perimeter defenders in basketball. Thompson recorded eight steals and four blocks over Detroit’s last two games, showcasing his defensive versatility. Head coach JB Bickerstaff has transformed the culture in Detroit and has positioned himself firmly in the Coach of the Year conversation.
Although Cleveland dropped Game Six, the Cavaliers still remain one of the most complete rosters in the NBA. Since acquiring James Harden at the NBA Trade Deadline, Cleveland has elevated its offense while maintaining a strong defensive identity. Donovan Mitchell continues to lead the franchise, recently tying an NBA Playoffs record with 39 points in a single half. With Mitchell being locked in for the long term, Cleveland knows who their leader is. Alongside Mitchell, Evan Mobley, the 2024-2025 Defensive Player of the Year Award winner, and Jarrett Allen provide elite interior defense and rebounding. Cleveland also benefits from tremendous depth on the wing, giving head coach Kenny Atkinson flexibility throughout games. The Knicks finished 2-1 against the Cavaliers during the regular season, including a victory on NBA Christmas Day. However, New York’s lone loss against Cleveland came after the Harden acquisition, making a potential Eastern Conference Finals matchup far less predictable.
From a broader perspective, both teams present unique challenges for New York. Cleveland possesses the offensive firepower capable of exploiting defensive weaknesses from Brunson and Towns, while Detroit’s physical defense has repeatedly disrupted the Knicks throughout the season. The Pistons’ success against New York mirrors the type of matchup problems the Indiana Pacers created during last year’s Eastern Conference Finals. At the same time, Cleveland’s playoff experience and balanced roster make it equally dangerous. Regardless of the opponent, the Knicks will enter the Eastern Conference Finals with momentum and valuable rest after nearly a week off before the series begins. With Game Seven between the Central Division rivals scheduled for Sunday, May 17th, New York will soon discover which team stands between them and a trip to the NBA Finals. If the Knicks want to advance to their first NBA Finals in over 25 years, they’ll be rooting for Cleveland to squeak their way through.
