Jalen Brunson powers Knicks to playoff-opening win over Hawks

Knicks star guard leads team to victory in first round of NBA playoffs

Apr. 19, 2026 at 3:05am

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An abstract, expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors capturing the energy and motion of a basketball player driving to the hoop, with the player's body and the ball blending into a dynamic, colorful blur.Jalen Brunson's explosive performance ignites the Knicks' playoff pushNYC Today

The New York Knicks defeated the Atlanta Hawks in the opening game of their first-round NBA playoff series, led by a standout performance from star guard Jalen Brunson. Brunson's scoring and playmaking ignited the Knicks' offense as they took down the Hawks in the series opener.

Why it matters

The Knicks' playoff run is seen as a pivotal moment that could shape the future direction of the franchise. A deep postseason run would validate the team's recent roster moves and coaching changes, while an early exit would raise more questions about the organization's long-term vision.

The details

Jalen Brunson scored a game-high 32 points and dished out 8 assists to lead the Knicks to a convincing victory over the Hawks in Game 1 of their first-round playoff series. Brunson was efficient from the field, making 12 of his 19 shot attempts, and also contributed 4 rebounds and 2 steals. The Knicks' defense also stepped up, limiting the Hawks' scoring opportunities and forcing 15 turnovers.

  • The game was played on April 19, 2026.

The players

Jalen Brunson

The Knicks' star guard, who was acquired in a high-profile offseason trade and has emerged as the team's leading scorer and playmaker.

New York Knicks

The NBA franchise based in New York City, making their first playoff appearance in several years.

Atlanta Hawks

The Knicks' first-round playoff opponent, a team that has made the postseason in recent years but is looking to advance further this year.

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What they’re saying

“Jalen Brunson was phenomenal tonight. He set the tone for us and made all the right plays. This is the kind of performance we need from him if we want to make a deep playoff run.”

— Tom Thibodeau, Head Coach, New York Knicks

What’s next

The Knicks and Hawks will face off in Game 2 of their first-round playoff series on April 21, 2026.

The takeaway

Jalen Brunson's standout performance in the Knicks' playoff-opening win over the Hawks has raised expectations for the team's postseason run. If Brunson can continue to lead the way, the Knicks have a chance to make a deep playoff push and potentially change the narrative around the franchise.