Towns has 27 points and 20 rebounds as Knicks beat Pistons 111-97
Karl-Anthony Towns had 27 points (22 in the paint) and 20 rebounds, and the defending champion New York Knicks beat the Detroit Pistons 111-97.
The Knicks took control with a 26-6 run bridging the second and third quarters and led by as many as 27.
Jalen Brunson had 23 points (nine during a 14-0 run across the second and third quarters, on two layups, a jumper and three free throws) and seven assists but made 5 of 18 shots. Andre Drummond added 10 points and eight rebounds off the bench, and Josh Hart had six points and five steals.
For the Pistons, Paul Reed had 22 points and nine rebounds on 9-of-12 shooting. John Collins had two points, nine rebounds and three blocks.
The Knicks made 23 of 28 free throws to the Pistons’ 14 of 24. Ausar Thompson fouled out.











