Cunningham outduels Brunson in Pistons' blowout win over Knicks

Coty M. Davis, The Detroit News on Jan 5, 2026

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DETROIT — The Detroit Pistons welcomed the New York Knicks to Little Caesars Arena for the first time since their six-game playoff series eight months ago.

The Pistons knew that Monday’s game wouldn’t change the postseason outcome, but it presented an opportunity to evaluate their progress in the first of a three-game, regular-season series against their Eastern Conference foe. As a result, the Pistons took a 121-90 victory.

While playing on a second night of a back-to-back, the Pistons improved to 27-9 overall.

Five players scored in double figures, led by Cade Cunningham. The All-NBA guard scored 29 points on 11-of-17 shooting. He also added his 20th double-double of the season by adding 13 assists. Cunningham scored 15 points during the third quarter while shooting 5 of 8 from the floor.

Jaden Ivey led Detroit's bench unit with a season-high 16 points on 6-of-10 shooting, while Javonte Green contributed with 17 points on 4 of 6 3-point shooting. Jalen Brunson led New York with a team-high 25 points and six turnovers. Miles McBride added 17 points off the bench.

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