Former NBA star Claims Pistons Were Cheated in Knicks Playoff Win

Former NBA star John Salley believes the Detroit Pistons were treated unfairly during their recent playoff game against the New York Knicks. Salley, who used to play for the famous “Bad Boys” Pistons team, said he was upset after watching a key moment in Game 4 where he felt the referees made a big mistake.

Salley made these comments in an interview with VladTV. He said a clear foul was missed late in the game, which may have cost the Pistons a chance to win. The NBA later admitted the mistake in its Last Two Minutes Report. “They cheated the Pistons,” Salley said. “After that, I started to think the game was fixed.”

The Pistons lost the game 94–93, which gave the Knicks a 3–1 lead in the series. In the final seconds, Knicks player Josh Hart appeared to foul Tim Hardaway Jr. as he took a shot. If the foul had been called, Hardaway would have had three free throws and a chance to win the game for Detroit.

Salley’s comments have caused debate among fans, especially because the Knicks moved on to the conference finals for the first time since 2000. Some fans believe the missed call shows that playoff games need better officiating.

Salley also shared his thoughts on the Knicks’ future. He praised guard Jalen Brunson and said the team needs better support around him. He also said that Jason Kidd, the coach of the Dallas Mavericks, would be a strong choice if the Knicks need a new head coach.

As a former champion and lifelong fan, Salley’s opinion carries weight. His words show how much people care about fairness in sports. Even after they stop playing, former athletes like Salley still feel connected to the game—and to the teams they once called family.