The New York Knicks are advancing to the second round of the NBA Playoffs after defeating the Detroit Pistons 116-113 on Thursday night.

While OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges had standout performances, Jalen Brunson delivered the closing blow: a crossover three-pointer with just over four seconds left on Ausar Thompson.

Even after the made shot, the Knicks weren't out of the woods, as the Pistons still had just over four seconds to work with. However, the Knicks caught a break when the pass from Cade Cunningham went through Malik Beasley's hands and out of bounds.

With the win, the Knicks advance to the second round for the third consecutive season.

This time, it will be their Atlantic Division rival, the Boston Celtics.

The Knicks have had trouble when they take on the NBA's top teams, and the Celtics are no exception. This season, the Knicks were 0-4 against the Celtics.

Boston has a few players who were injured in its series against the Orlando Magic. Guard Jrue Holiday missed the final two games, while Jaylen Brown is dealing with a knee injury.

Ahead of their series against the Knicks, Brown delivered a statement on the team's rivalry.

"It's a great stage for basketball, just all the history between Boston and New York.," Brown said. "It's excellent to be able to relive in that, so I don't take that for granted.  

"I think a lot of people will be excited watching this series just because of the history. It's our to come out and put on a great performance."

Jaylen Brown to @RochieWBZ on the Boston vs New York Rivalry:

"It's a great stage for basketball, just all the history between Boston and New York.

"Boston versus New York you don't get too much better than that." pic.twitter.com/wPmuBgNGpq

— Celtics on CLNS (@CelticsCLNS) May 3, 2025

The Celtics hold the all-time postseason advantage over the Knicks 36-31. 

However, the last time these two teams met in the playoffs back in 2013, it was the Knicks who came out on top, winning the series 4-2.