Knicks Survive Late Hawks Comeback in Game 1 Victory

Knicks' talent and playoff experience ultimately prevailed, but late-game struggles raise concerns ahead of tougher matchups.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 12:36pm

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A cubist-style painting featuring overlapping geometric shapes and planes in shades of blue, orange, and green, capturing the dynamic action and tension of a basketball game in an abstract, deconstructed manner.A fragmented, cubist depiction of the intense final minutes of the Knicks' playoff battle with the Hawks, reflecting the team's struggle to maintain control and composure down the stretch.NYC Today

The New York Knicks defeated the Atlanta Hawks 113-102 in Game 1 of their first-round NBA playoff series, but the win was not without its issues. The Knicks built a large lead in the second half, only to see the Hawks mount a late comeback that nearly erased the advantage. Head coach Mike Brown's late-game management drew comparisons to former Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau, as the team reverted to some of the same problems that plagued them last season.

Why it matters

The Knicks are expected to make a deep playoff run this year, but their ability to close out games against elite competition remains a concern. Their late-game struggles against the Hawks, who are considered underdogs in the series, suggest the Knicks may face challenges against tougher opponents like the Boston Celtics or Detroit Pistons later in the postseason.

The details

The Knicks built a 19-point lead in the fourth quarter, but the Hawks were able to cut the deficit to just 8 points in the final minutes. During this late-game stretch, the Knicks struggled with missed free throws, turnovers, and poor shot selection, reminiscent of their issues last season under former coach Tom Thibodeau. Head coach Mike Brown's decision-making and playcalling in the closing minutes also drew criticism, as the team reverted to isolation plays instead of running cohesive offense.

  • The Knicks took a 106-87 lead with 4:36 remaining in the fourth quarter.
  • The Hawks cut the lead to 106-98 with 1:39 left in the game, prompting a timeout by Brown.

The players

Mike Brown

The head coach of the New York Knicks, who was criticized for his late-game management and playcalling that mirrored the issues the team faced under former coach Tom Thibodeau.

Jalen Brunson

The Knicks' All-Star point guard, who helped spark the team's dominant second-half performance.

Karl-Anthony Towns

The Knicks' other All-Star, who finished off the Hawks with a late 3-pointer to help secure the victory.

Jalen Johnson

The Hawks' best player, who was making his first impactful playoff start and led the team's late comeback attempt.

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What they’re saying

“It doesn't get any more Thibodeau than that.”

— The author

What’s next

The Knicks will need to address their late-game execution issues before facing tougher opponents in the later rounds of the playoffs. Their ability to maintain focus and composure in close games will be crucial to their championship aspirations.

The takeaway

While the Knicks ultimately prevailed in Game 1, their late-game struggles against the Hawks raise concerns about their readiness to compete with the top teams in the Eastern Conference. The team must improve its closing ability and decision-making if it hopes to make a deep playoff run and potentially win the NBA championship.