The Detroit Pistons are having a special NBA season after being a mediocre team for several years during the early 2020s.
Led by fifth year star Cade Cunningham, Detroit currently holds the number one seed in the Eastern conference with a 27-9 record.
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And last night, they produced a 121-90 blowout victory on their home floor over the New York Knicks, who now sit in third place in the East.
Stephen A.’s Motown concerns
Last night’s demolition of New York, as well as their overall play throughout the year, has prompted ESPN talking head and Knicks fan Stephen A. Smith to declare that the Pistons truly are a force to be reckoned with this season.
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“I’m very concerned about the Detroit Pistons,” Smith said on First Take.
“Cade Cunningham is a superstar, this brother’s special…Cade Cunningham is that dude and J.B. Bickerstaff can coach. Okay, I’m telling you something special is brewing in the Motor City.”
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Jan 5, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Pistons head coach J.B. Bickerstaff reacts in the first half against the New York Knicks at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
Naturally, Smith couldn’t help but discuss the threat he feels the Pistons pose for his beloved Knicks.
“This is the reason why I’m so worried about them (the Pistons) …these brothers want the Knicks,” Smith said.
“They would actually be disappointed if they went to the Finals and they didn’t have to go through New York to do it…and so they sent the message to the Knicks last night, (that) we (are) coming for y’all. We coming for y’all.
“So, guess what. I’m very worried, I’m very worried.”
Jan 4, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Detroit Pistons guard Ausar Thompson (9) and guard Daniss Jenkins (24) celebrate after a basket against the Cleveland Cavaliers during the second half at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
New York defeated Detroit in the first round of the playoffs last year in a very competitive series, however Stephen A. can’t be faulted for his doubts given how well J.B. Bickerstaff’s squad have played this season.
If we get another matchup between the Pistons and Knicks this upcoming postseason, then NBA fans could potentially be in for up to seven games of absolute playoff cinema.
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