In a thrilling playoff game, CJ McCollum led the Atlanta Hawks to a dramatic comeback victory over the New York Knicks, winning 107-106 on Monday night. This win ties their first-round playoff series at one game each.
CJ McCollum’s Key Role
McCollum scored 32 points, spearheading the Hawks’ late-game drive. Despite missing two crucial free throws with only 5.6 seconds left, he managed to keep his composure.
Intense Game Finish
After McCollum’s critical contributions, the Knicks rushed their final play. Mikal Bridges attempted a jumper as time expired but missed, sealing the Hawks’ victory.
Hawks Overcome a Significant Deficit
The Hawks faced a challenging situation, trailing throughout much of the second half and down by 12 points at the end of the third quarter. With about 2:09 left, McCollum made a basket that allowed Atlanta to take their first lead of the game at 101-100.
- Final Score: Hawks 107, Knicks 106
- Quarter Breakdown:
- Hawks trailed by 12 points after the third quarter
- Atlanta outscored New York during critical final minutes
Contributions from Other Players
Jonathan Kuminga added 19 points off the bench, while Jalen Johnson contributed 17 points, including a pivotal basket with 10 seconds remaining. This was crucial in establishing a four-point lead for the No. 6 seed Hawks.
Knicks’ Efforts and Stats
Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 29 points, showcasing his scoring ability. Meanwhile, Karl-Anthony Towns added 18 points, with a surge of 14 points in the third quarter alone. Despite their strong early control, the Knicks’ lead slipped away in the final moments.
Looking ahead, the Hawks will host Game 3 on Thursday. With this victory, they have momentum and a chance to gain an advantage in the series.
