The playoffs are here, and so is the drama. The Detroit Pistons are set to face the New York Knicks in a first-round showdown, their first postseason clash since 1992. But before tip-off, there’s tension brewing: not on the court, but in the ticket lines. Detroit has placed geographical limits on playoff ticket sales, making sure only fans from Michigan, nearby Ohio, Indiana, and Ontario can buy them. Why? Because when the Knicks play, their fans show up everywhere.

A Pistons spokesperson cleared the air, saying this move isn’t targeting Knicks fans directly. “We implemented geo-fencing for two main reasons,” the spokesman told The Post. “First, we saw a high volume of ticket brokers trying to buy up large blocks — especially cheaper seats — during our presale. Second, like many in entertainment, we face ongoing threats of fraud.” They added, “This approach is not about keeping any particular group out. It’s about protecting our fans.” While the reception to it may be mixed, there are some who find it perfectly justified.

Still, the conversation took off after Michelle Beadle brought it up on Run It Back. Lou Williams didn’t hold back his approval. “I love it,” he said. “We got to draw a line. It’s the playoffs. We’re not playing friendly.” He added, “We’re not allowing y’all in our building… You better turn your geotag on to Michigan and buy your tickets.” His words made it clear: this isn’t just business; it’s about pride. “Detroit versus everybody,” he said. For Lou, this move was about defending the home court with everything they’ve got.

Chandler Parsons echoed the sentiment. “There’s nothing more frustrating than playing in Atlanta or Memphis and just seeing all these Knicks fans,” he said. He applauded the Pistons for trying to reclaim their arena. “This should even put Pistons fans on alert to buy more tickets and to go there and support and just keep those Knicks fans out.” Chandler believes it’s about creating a real home-court advantage again. Even if it’s hard to pull off, it’s worth the effort in his eyes.

But fans on social media weren’t exactly cheering. “This never works. Remember what Philadelphia stadium looked like after they tried?” one person posted. Another wrote, “Great, so they’ll have an empty arena.” Others were more blunt, like the fan who said, “It’s not that deep. Just sell the damn tickets.” And then came the classic internet response: “VPN has entered the chat.” While the Pistons insist the move is for security and fairness, online, the court of public opinion remains divided.

Will the Knicks’ star power overcome Detroit’s grit in the first round?

It’s been over three decades since the Knicks and Pistons met in the playoffs. Now, the matchup is finally back. The third-seeded Knicks are facing Eastern Conference’s dangerous sixth-seeded Pistons – a squad that’s been red-hot since December. New York, after a busy offseason and big roster moves, finds itself only slightly better than last year. The question is, was all that noise worth it if the playoff run ends early?

Karl-Anthony Towns and Jalen Brunson have developed serious chemistry. Their two-man game helped push New York to a top-five offense. But against top teams, they’ve stumbled. A 6-16 record against elite squads makes fans nervous. On the defensive end, the Knicks are solid, but Cunningham has made them look lost more than once. Their one win over Detroit came before the Pistons got healthy and before Cade truly took off.

Detroit’s transformation has been one of the NBA’s biggest stories this season. After setting a record for losses last year, they’ve jumped to 44 wins under coach J.B. Bickerstaff. He brought order, pace, and spacing, giving shooters like Malik Beasley the green light while keeping rim pressure high. Cade has led the charge, breaking down drop coverage and punishing defenders with better shooting and decision-making.

Thibodeau might have to rethink his usual game plan. The starters have logged heavy minutes, but that lineup hasn’t looked dominant against strong teams. New York may need more of Mitchell Robinson’s defense or extra shooting from the bench to slow Detroit’s movement and spacing. If they don’t adapt, Detroit’s speed and confidence could break things open early.

This series is going to be tight. If Cade keeps dictating the game and Detroit keeps defending the way they have, the Knicks might need all seven games — and then some — to escape. What do you think about the upcoming match-up? Share your thoughts in the comments below.