Knicks’ heroes, zeros of Game 5: Miles McBride comes up short again

Knicks’ heroes and zeros from their 106-103 Game 5 loss to the Pistons on Tuesday:

Hero 

Ausar Thompson poured in 22 points, marking a season high and tying his career high. He also finally was able to shut down Jalen Brunson, who had 16 points on rough 4-for-16 shooting from the field. 

Zero 

The Knicks have not been able to get Miles McBride going the entire series.

Miles McBride of the New York Knicks dribbles the ball against the Detroit Pistons during Game 5 on April 29, 2025. NBAE via Getty Images

He struggled with his shot again, finishing with four points on 2-for-7 shooting from the field.

He also missed all three of his 3-pointers.

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He missed both free throws — the second on purpose — with the Knicks trailing 106-103 with 2.6 seconds left. 

Unsung hero 

Jalen Duren had nine points, but more importantly, 14 rebounds — seven of which were on the offensive glass. 

Detroit Pistons center Jalen Duren (0) dunks the ball over New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby in the second half during Game 5 in an NBA basketball first-round playoff series Tuesday, April 29, 2025, in New York. AP

Key stat 

59.3 Knicks shooting from the free throw line (16-of-27). Hard to win leaving that many free points missing.