New York Knicks’ Playoff Struggles: Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart’s Absence in Game 5

In a pivotal Game 5 matchup of the 2025 NBA Playoffs, the New York Knicks faced a crushing defeat as key players Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart missed a crucial stretch in the final moments, allowing the Detroit Pistons to extend their lead and secure a vital victory. The loss forced the Knicks to head back to Detroit for Game 6 in a series now tied 3-2.

Injury Concerns for Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart in Playoff Game 5

With just under two minutes remaining in the game, the Knicks were on the verge of regaining control. But neither Jalen Brunson nor Josh Hart were on the floor when the Pistons’ Cade Cunningham executed a brilliant play that gave Detroit a six-point lead. The missed opportunity highlighted the absence of the Knicks’ two most reliable players during crunch time.

Brunson, who has been battling a nagging right ankle injury throughout the series, appeared to reinjure it while defending Cunningham late in the game. Meanwhile, Hart took a hard fall after contesting a Cunningham drive, aggravating his left arm and back. This left head coach Tom Thibodeau in a tough spot, unable to reinsert them into the game despite their proven ability to shift momentum in New York’s favor.

Coaching Decision: Why Thibodeau Didn’t Call Timeout

As the Knicks struggled to generate offense in the absence of their key players, Coach Thibodeau had to make a critical decision. With just one timeout remaining and the game slipping away, Thibodeau chose not to call a stoppage to bring Brunson and Hart back into the game. Instead, he opted to rely on a lineup featuring Miles McBride, Cameron Payne, Karl-Anthony Towns, Mikal Bridges, and OG Anunoby. This decision was influenced by several factors, including the game clock, the score, and the limited timeout options available.

Pistons Capitalize on Knicks’ Absence

Without Brunson and Hart, the Knicks’ defense and offense faltered. The Pistons capitalized on the opportunity, scoring 6 points in the crucial moments following the injuries. Even though New York made a late push with 3-pointers from Bridges and Anunoby, the Pistons’ lead held, and they claimed a 106-103 victory to force a Game 6.

What’s Next for Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart in Game 6?

As the series heads back to Detroit, the Knicks’ hopes of advancing depend on the recovery of Brunson and Hart. Both players are crucial to the team’s success, and their physical condition will be a key factor in the outcome of Game 6. Brunson, though insistent his ankle is fine, and Hart, who described his body as “bothered,” will need to recover quickly to give the Knicks the best chance to close out the series on the road.

Knicks’ Playoff Focus Shifts to Detroit: Will Brunson and Hart be Ready?

With the series now in a pivotal Game 6, Thibodeau and the Knicks will need to regroup and assess their game plan. The absence of key players in crucial moments of Game 5 has left the team with much to address, but Thibodeau’s focus is already shifting to the next game. “We’ll take a look at the film, see what we can do better, and be ready for the next game,” he said.

Conclusion: The Knicks’ 2025 Playoff Future

As the Knicks prepare for the next chapter in their playoff journey, the status of Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart remains central to their prospects. A healthy, fully operational Brunson, combined with Hart’s defensive versatility, is vital for New York’s hopes to advance. The 2025 NBA Playoffs have already proven to be a rollercoaster for the Knicks, and Game 6 will determine if they can recover from their tough Game 5 loss and secure a crucial win in Detroit.