More specifically, 22-year-old guard Ausar Thompson and 21-year-old center Jalen Duren did. And their efforts were critical as the Pistons kept their season alive and sent the series back to Detroit for Game 6 on Thursday.

Ausar Thompson gave a one-word answer. A day after Jalen Brunson erupted for 34 points in his Knicks ’ Game 1 win over the Pistons, Thompson — Detroit’s go-to defender — was asked what are some of the biggest challenges he faces when guarding Brunson.

The plucky Pistons kept themselves alive for at least one more game, beating the Knicks 106-103 in yet another physical, back-and-forth battle that was close right to the final buzzer. Cade Cunningham yet again did a little bit of everything for Detroit (42 points,