Atlanta HawksOpen full analysis
New York KnicksOpen full analysis
The New York Knicks dominated the Atlanta Hawks 126–97 at Madison Square Garden on April 28, cruising to a decisive playoff victory behind Jalen Brunson's 39-point performance and OG Anunoby's 17 points. New York's offensive efficiency was suffocating, shooting 57 percent from the field while connecting on 11 three-pointers and holding Atlanta to just 44.6 percent shooting and 13 made threes. The Knicks' defense was equally stifling, allowing only 101.6 points per 100 possessions and forcing the Hawks into 10 turnovers while committing just 11 themselves. Atlanta's John Johnson (18 points) and Donovan Daniels (17 points) led a Hawks offense that never gained traction, scoring just 22 points in the opening quarter and never threatening thereafter. New York's balanced attack generated 26 assists on 48 rebounds, with the fourth quarter proving decisive as the Knicks outscored Atlanta 36–25 to put the game away. The final margin of 29 points fell well short of Vegas's 214.5 total, signaling a defensive showcase that favored New York's playoff momentum heading forward.
