“It’s a long game. You’ve got to play to zero,” said CJ McCollum after leading the Atlanta Hawks to a stunning comeback against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden.
On April 20, 2026, McCollum scored 32 points, helping the Hawks secure a narrow 107-106 victory. With this win, they tied the playoff series at one game apiece.
The game turned dramatically in the fourth quarter. The Hawks had trailed by 12 points after three quarters—a daunting deficit that seemed insurmountable. Yet, they outscored the Knicks 28-15 in the final period, showcasing resilience and determination.
Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 29 points, but even his efforts couldn’t prevent the loss. Mikal Bridges missed a potential game-winner as time expired, leaving fans in disbelief.
McCollum acknowledged his late-game challenges, stating, “I gotta make my free throws. I’ll get in the gym on Wednesday and make sure I tighten up.” He missed two crucial free throws with just 5.6 seconds remaining—an unusual slip for a player of his caliber.
Jonathan Kuminga contributed significantly off the bench for the Hawks with 19 points, while Jalen Johnson added another 17. Their combined efforts were vital in turning the tide of the match.
This victory is particularly significant for both teams. The Knicks have been striving to reach the second round for a fourth straight season—something they haven’t achieved since their longest stretch from 1991-92 to 1999-2000.
Josh Hart, reflecting on the loss, remarked, “This is a game we should have won.” His frustration echoed throughout Madison Square Garden as fans processed what could have been.
As anticipation builds for Game 3 scheduled for Thursday night in Atlanta, both teams will be eager to capitalize on their strengths and rectify their mistakes from this nail-biting encounter.
With tensions running high and stakes even higher, this playoff series promises to deliver more unforgettable moments as it unfolds.
