Ku Khahil here, the host of the daily Locked On Pistons podcast, with your daily Locked On Pistons newsletter. Each day we bring you the biggest stories about the Pistons and the NBA, including the hottest links to other stories you need to read. Plus, Josh Lloyd delivers daily fantasy notes to crush your league.
Cade Cunningham’s Stellar Performance Leads Pistons to Victory Over Knicks
Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham (2) controls the ball against New York Knicks forward Mikal Bridges (25) during the fourth quarter at Madison Square Garden.
| Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
The Detroit Pistons secured a thrilling 124-119 victory against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden, propelling them to a 21-19 record and potentially the sixth seed in the Eastern Conference. This win was largely due to an exceptional performance from Cade Cunningham, who overcame early foul trouble to dominate the second half.
Cunningham’s resilience was on full display as he bounced back from a challenging first half, accumulating four fouls and only seven points. The young star exploded in the third quarter, pouring in 18 points and setting the tone for a remarkable comeback. His aggressive play continued into the fourth, where he showcased his ability to score under pressure and make crucial plays.
The game wasn’t without controversy, as the officiating seemed to favor the Knicks, particularly Jalen Brunson. Despite facing what appeared to be unfair calls, Cunningham maintained his composure and let his play do the talking. His final stat line of 36 points on 14-of-27 shooting, including 4-of-8 from three-point range, speaks volumes about his impact on the game.
Isaiah Stewart’s Defensive Prowess
Isaiah Stewart’s contribution to the win cannot be overstated. His defensive versatility and ability to switch onto guards proved invaluable, especially when matched up against Jalen Brunson. Stewart’s physical play and vocal presence on the court energized the team and frustrated the Knicks’ offensive rhythm.
Stewart’s improvement as a finisher at the rim has been notable this season, with his efficiency placing him in the 83rd percentile for his position. His development as a two-way player has been crucial for the Pistons’ success and adds another dimension to their lineup.
Malik Beasley: The X-Factor
Malik Beasley continues to be one of the best signings in recent Pistons history. His shooting prowess and ability to space the floor have been instrumental in opening up opportunities for Cunningham and others. In this game, Beasley’s timely three-pointers in the fourth quarter helped seal the victory for Detroit.
His impact goes beyond just scoring, as his mere presence on the court forces defenses to account for him, creating driving lanes and opportunities for his teammates. Beasley’s performance of 22 points in just 17 minutes off the bench exemplifies his value to the team.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Pistons’ victory over the Knicks, tune into the Locked On Pistons podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Pistons Podcast:
• The need for increased minutes and touches for Ausar Thompson and Ron Holland
• Analysis of the Pistons’ offensive struggles when Cunningham is off the floor
• Discussion on potential moves the Pistons could make to improve the roster
Jan 13, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) dribbles up court against the Toronto Raptors during the second half at Scotiabank Arena. | John E. Sokolowski/John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
Something I realized last night at the Warriors-Raptors game, perhaps more pressingly than the last time the team was in town a season ago — this thing isn’t going to last forever.
You wouldn’t get that impression from Steph Curry, who takes his pre-game warmup last and happily engages with the fans who show up an hour before tip-off to watch him. Curry’s off-court presence, compared to his superstar contemporaries, has always been demure and private, but watching him revel and work within that outsized adoration is a privilege in itself. No fan in attendance watching him take feathery lob after feathery lob, or take a volleyball spike to the basketball so he could meet it mid-air for a dunk, was thinking about the finite nature of Curry — performer or competitor.
Even if the underlying desire of proximity to greatness stems from the understanding that one day that greatness will no longer exist, that reality doesn’t translate in the moment. In the moment, there’s just Curry, laughing with his coaches, signing the backs of jerseys, going through footwork, prepping for the night’s game.
Where the impression of a dynasty in its final stages becomes more pronounced is through the words of Warriors coach, Steve Kerr. Asked about how difficult it is to maintain a dynasty, and Kerr reverted to Curry.
Katie Heindl is a credentialed NBA and WNBA writer, her bylines have appeared with The New York Times Magazine, SLAM, The Athletic, Yahoo Sports, Dime, Rolling Stone, among others. She writes the bestselling Substack, Basketball Feelings and is working on a book of the same name.
Home and Away
Replay The Detroit Pistons faced off against the New York Knicks, with notable performances from Cade Cunningham, Jalen Brunson, and Malik Beasley. Relive the game’s key moments and standout plays in this detailed recap. (Detroit Bad Boys)
Analysis The 2025 NBA Mock Draft offers comprehensive predictions and comparisons for all teams, including potential picks for the Detroit Pistons. Dive into the full analysis to see expert insights and player comparisons. (Bleacher Report)
Trade What would every NBA team, including the Detroit Pistons, do if the 2025 trade deadline were today? Discover strategic moves and trade scenarios in this speculative breakdown. (Bleacher Report)
Analysis TheDetroit Pistons are emerging as a serious surprise story this season. (TSN)
Biz Explosive court documents show co-conspirators and other shocking details in Jontay Porter’s ongoing betting scandal. (The Athletic)
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
NBA Injury Update: Key Players Sidelined and Return Timelines For Fantasy Basketball
Jan 12, 2025; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Utah Jazz guard Isaiah Collier (13) attempts a three point basket against the Brooklyn Nets during the third quarter at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images | Rob Gray/Rob Gray-Imagn Images
As we approach the midpoint of the NBA season, injuries continue to play a significant role in shaping team dynamics and fantasy basketball strategies. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most impactful injuries across the league and their potential implications.
The Utah Jazz are once again at the forefront of injury-related drama. Lauri Markkanen’s back spasms and John Collins’ hip issue have raised eyebrows, with many speculating about potential load management strategies. Keyonte George’s heel soreness has kept him out for five consecutive games, while Jordan Clarkson’s plantar fascia injury could potentially end his season. The Jazz’s injury situation is one to monitor closely, as it could lead to increased opportunities for players like Kyle Filipowski and Isaiah Collier
In Philadelphia, Joel Embiid’s knee injury has kept him out for four consecutive games. This absence highlights the risks associated with drafting Embiid in the first round of fantasy drafts. With a busy schedule ahead, including back-to-back sets, Embiid’s playing time could be limited even upon his return.
For more insights and a deeper dive into NBA injuries and their fantasy implications, tune into the Locked On Fantasy Basketball podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Fantasy Basketball Podcast:
• Portland Trail Blazers injury updates
• Phoenix Suns roster changes and injury concerns
• Orlando Magic’s lengthy injury report and fantasy implications
3peat (ICYMI)
Don’t let these episodes pass you by — stay locked in with the latest Locked On Pistons podcasts.
Cade Cunningham’s Play And Team Defense Boosts Detroit Pistons’ January Success Can the Detroit Pistons’ recent triumph over the Houston Rockets signal a turning point in their season? The Pistons are making waves in the NBA with Cade Cunningham’s standout performance and Jalen Duren’s defensive prowess.
Explore how Cunningham’s aggressive play and leadership have propelled the Pistons to an impressive January record. Discover the impact of Jalen Duren’s defensive improvements and the strategic changes that have reshaped the team’s dynamics.
Detroit Pistons Surge To Sixth Seed Behind Cade Cunningham. Improved Opportunistic Defense Can the Detroit Pistons maintain their momentum as they rise to the 6th seed in the Eastern Conference? The Pistons are making waves in the NBA with standout performances from Cade Cunningham and Ausar Thompson. This episode breaks down the team’s impressive climb, focusing on Cunningham’s evolving scoring skills and Thompson’s defensive prowess. Discover how the Pistons’ fast-break game reshapes their strategy and what this means for their playoff aspirations.
Detroit Pistons Can’t Overcome Orlando Magic’s Physicality In 121-113 Loss Can the Detroit Pistons overcome their recent struggles against the Orlando Magic? With Cade Cunningham’s pivotal role and Ausar Thompson’s rising aggression, the Pistons face a critical juncture in their season.
Explore the dynamics of the Pistons’ 113-121 loss to the Magic, where the absence of a secondary ball handler became glaringly evident. The episode highlights the physical dominance of the Magic, featuring players like Franz Wagner and Jonathan Isaac, and discusses the Pistons’ need for strategic adjustments.
