Jaylen Brunson led the Knicks to victory with 35 points and 12 assists.
The Knicks were favored by 11.5 points, but the Pistons kept the game close.
A missed foul call on Dante DiVincenzo in the final seconds of the game sparked controversy.
Coach Monty Williams criticized the referees for the missed call, calling it an abomination.
The NBA has been facing criticism for inconsistent officiating and the need for replay reviews.