Detroit Pistons is heading to the NBA playoffs. Detroit jumped out to an early lead and pulled away for an easy 115-89 victory over the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on Wednesday. It clinched the final Eastern Conference postseason spot with the win.
The Pistons took control in the opening moments and held a 14-point advantage by the end of the first quarter. They pushed the score to 65-41 by halftime and cruised from there.
Andre Drummond tallied 20 points and 18 rebounds to lead Detroit to the victory. Luke Kennard chipped in a game-high 27 points off the bench while connecting on four of his eight 3-point attempts.
Detroit playing without star Blake Griffin, who’s dealing with a sore knee. It had last made the playoffs in 2015-16.
Meanwhile, the Charlotte Hornets entered play with its postseason hopes still alive. But, it was officially eliminated with the Pistons’ win. Charlotte would not have advanced to the postseason, anyway, as it fell to the Orlando Magic at home, 122-114.
Kemba Walker recorded 43 points and five assists for Charlotte in what could be his last game with the team. He’ll be a free agent this summer.
Studs of the night
Dwyane Wade registered a triple-double in the last game before his retirement. He put up 25 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists in the Heat’s 113-94 loss to the Nets.
Philadelphia 76ers wing Jonathon Simmons had 20 points, seven rebounds and five assists in his team’s 125-109 victory over the Chicago Bulls.
Jevon Carter tallied 32 points in the Memphis Grizzlies’ 132-117 win against the Golden State Warriors.
Dallas Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki scored 20 points and grabbed 10 rebounds against the San Antonio Spurs in his final game. Nowitzki officially announced his plans to retire Tuesday.
Duds of the night
Dorian Finney-Smith was 2-of-10 shooting and scored five points in the Mavericks’ 105-94 loss to the Spurs.
Atlanta Hawks wing Kent Bazemore shot 2 of 10 from the field and was a minus-16 as its fell to the Indiana Pacers, 135-134.
Highlights
Aaron Gordon powers his way to the basket.
Trae Young with the slick dribble move.
What’s next?
The playoffs — After a long regular season, the playoffs have finally arrived. The path to the championship begins on Saturday when the first series tipoff.
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