The New York Knicks are also registered on the board for the 2025 NBA playoffs.
Channeling a balanced offense, the ball club overwhelmed the visiting Detroit Pistons (123-112) and held a marquee seven-game showdown in the first round of the Eastern Conference.
Jalen Brunson burned to a baking performance, pouring in high 34 points and eight assists from the game, powering the New York Knicks to draw the first blood of the series.
Karl-Anthony Towns has 23 points, 11 boards, five assists, four steels and two blocks, while OG Anunoby clamped the Pistons’ superstar cade Cunningham with 23 markers and five giant steels in his NBA playoff debut.
Beyond the starter trio, another important Nick stepped up to supporting New York with a major Game 1 dub.
The lights were the brightest, so Campain stood up on the occasion.
The New York veteran was incredible to demolish Detroit on April 19th this year, as his off-the-bench play served as the team’s X-factor.
In 15 minutes, Payne registered 14 points, with 11 earning 11 points from the fourth quarter. He went from five-sevenths off the field to three-thirds from three-point distance.
Throwing an eight-point deficit in the fourth quarter, Payne helped the Knicks for a dramatic comeback. He made lots of big shots on the stretch to contribute to their 21-0 run to clinch the game.
For post-match availability, head coach Tom Thibodeau offered praise to the 30-year-old.
“I thought Cam gave us a big lift in the fourth quarter,” he said. “And we thought our attack was really good for the fourth time. Our defense was really good. We have to do it for 48 minutes.”
Thibodeau added:
“He gave us a huge spark, and that’s who he was in every season.”
One of the franchise’s major offseason picks last year, Payne has long been reliable throughout the season, averaging 6.9 points and 2.8 assists in 15.1 minutes in 72 games. He shares the role of Branson’s Miles McBride and Backup Point Man.
Payne was recently praised by Alan Hearn for his stable professionalism and thrills, regardless of his role. And this time he raised it and got a warm embrace from the crowd at Madison Square Garden when the Knicks snatched the opening game of the series.
“A fun guy,” he said. “It’s a hell of atmosphere. I was on the other side last year (with the Philadelphia 76ers) and it was tough.
“It feels good to be on the flip side. That applause feels good. I’ve been waiting for the way I played all year round today, so I’m grateful.
“I thank God for everything that happened tonight, I’m grateful that I’m still playing in this league.”
The Knicks and Piston are set to meet again for Game 2 on April 21st.