After attempting just three shots after halftime in Monday’s Game 2 defeat, Towns was far more involved in the Knicks’ offense Thursday night. He shot 3-of-7 from the field in the first quarter and generally punished whichever Piston was tasked with guarding him throughout the night. As a result of the Game 3 win, the Knicks hold a 2-1 lead in a series they could very well trail by a 3-0 margin. Towns will need to remain aggressive in Sunday’s Game 4 if the Knicks are to strengthen their grip on the series.

Towns was awesome in Game 1 and contributed a 23/11/5/4/2 line in 39 minutes. However, he wasn’t able to repeat that performance, mostly because the team didn’t make him a priority. He was held scoreless in the second half and took just three shots after the break. His last shot attempts came with 5:20 remaining in the third quarter. Towns didn’t do a great job on the glass either. While he needs to be better there, Towns is a dynamic scorer. They aren’t paying him $49 million this season because he makes the hustle plays. They need to get him going in Game 3 on Thursday.

KAT and Brunson will sit out for the Knicks’ final regular-season game. Mitchell Robinson and Precious Achiuwa will have to hold down the fort at center while Miles McBride may get a chance to run the offense at point guard.