Hawks and Knicks Set for Thrilling NBA Playoff Clash

First-round series between Eastern Conference foes tips off Saturday on Prime Video

Apr. 13, 2026 at 3:35am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting an abstract basketball game, with overlapping shapes and planes representing the action on the court between the two teams.The Hawks and Knicks' first-round playoff clash promises to be a tightly contested, multi-faceted battle between two Eastern Conference rivals.Atlanta Today

The Atlanta Hawks and New York Knicks will meet in the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs, with Game 1 set for Saturday at 6:00 p.m. ET on Prime Video. The two teams split their regular season series, setting the stage for what could be a hard-fought, six or seven-game battle between these Eastern Conference rivals.

Why it matters

The Hawks-Knicks matchup is one of the most anticipated first-round series, pitting two talented, well-coached teams against each other. Both squads are looking to make a deep postseason run, making this a crucial early-round clash with major implications.

The details

The Hawks finished the regular season as the No. 6 seed in the East, while the Knicks claimed the No. 3 spot. In their three meetings this season, the teams split the series 1-1, with the Knicks winning the most recent matchup on a last-second halfcourt shot from CJ McCollum. Atlanta will need to find a way to slow down Knicks star Jalen Brunson, while also getting consistent production from their bench players like Jonathan Kuminga and Gabe Vincent. The status of Hawks center Jock Landale could also be a key factor, as he provides important size and physicality to match up with Knicks big man Mitchell Robinson.

  • Game 1 is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. ET.
  • The full series schedule will be released at a later date.

The players

Jalen Brunson

The Knicks' star point guard who had a clutch performance in the teams' most recent meeting.

Jock Landale

The Hawks' center who could provide important size and physicality to match up with the Knicks' Mitchell Robinson, if he is able to return from injury.

Dyson Daniels

One of the Hawks' pesky perimeter defenders who has had previous success guarding Brunson.

Nickeil Alexander-Walker

Another strong defensive guard for the Hawks who will likely be tasked with slowing down Brunson.

Mitchell Robinson

The Knicks' imposing center who could pose problems for the Hawks if Landale is unable to play.

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What they’re saying

“This has the potential to be the best first round matchup and a six or seven game series. The journey for both teams begins on Saturday.”

— Jackson Caudell

What’s next

The full schedule for the Hawks-Knicks series will be released at a later date, with Game 1 set for Saturday, April 18 at 6:00 p.m. ET on Prime Video.

The takeaway

This first-round clash between the Hawks and Knicks has all the makings of a thrilling, hard-fought series between two talented Eastern Conference foes. The outcome could come down to which team is able to best neutralize the other's star players and get consistent production from their supporting casts.