Hawks-Knicks Game 2: New York Seeks 2-0 Series Lead

Knicks look to build on Game 1 win as high-powered Hawks aim to even series

Apr. 20, 2026 at 4:08pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the intense action and energy of an NBA playoff basketball game between the New York Knicks and Atlanta Hawks, with sharp, overlapping shapes and planes of bright, vibrant colors.The Knicks and Hawks engage in a high-stakes chess match as they battle for early control of their first-round playoff series.NYC Today

The New York Knicks and Atlanta Hawks meet for Game 2 of their first-round playoff series, with the Knicks looking to take a commanding 2-0 lead after winning the opener 113-102. The Knicks were led by a dominant performance from Jalen Brunson, who scored 28 points, while Karl-Anthony Towns added 25 points and 8 rebounds. The Hawks will look to even the series behind the play of Jalen Johnson, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, and CJ McCollum, but will need to find a way to slow down the Knicks' balanced attack.

Why it matters

This game is crucial for both teams as they look to gain an early advantage in the series. The Knicks are hoping to build on their Game 1 win and seize control, while the Hawks are aiming to bounce back and even the series before it shifts to Atlanta. The outcome could have significant implications on the rest of the Eastern Conference playoffs.

The details

In Game 1, the Knicks set the tone early, jumping out to a big lead behind Jalen Brunson's hot start. The Hawks struggled to contain the Knicks' balanced scoring attack, with all five starters reaching double figures. Atlanta will need to find a way to slow down Brunson and get more production from their supporting cast around Jalen Johnson and CJ McCollum. The status of Hawks center Onyeka Okongwu will also be a key factor, as his interior presence is crucial against the Knicks' size and physicality.

  • Game 2 is scheduled for Thursday, April 20, 2026 at 8:00 p.m. ET.
  • The Knicks won Game 1 on Tuesday, April 18, 2026 by a score of 113-102.

The players

Jalen Brunson

The Knicks' starting point guard, who scored 28 points in the Game 1 win.

Karl-Anthony Towns

The Knicks' star center, who had 25 points and 8 rebounds in the series opener.

Jalen Johnson

The Hawks' versatile forward, who led the team with 23 points in Game 1.

Onyeka Okongwu

The Hawks' starting center, whose status is uncertain after a strong Game 1 performance.

CJ McCollum

The veteran Hawks guard, who will need to provide scoring punch to help Atlanta even the series.

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What they’re saying

“We have to come out with the same energy and focus we had in Game 1. If we do that, I like our chances to take a 2-0 lead.”

— Jalen Brunson, Knicks Point Guard

“We're not going to let one loss define our season. We've bounced back before, and we'll do it again in Game 2.”

— Jalen Johnson, Hawks Forward

What’s next

If the Knicks win Game 2, they will have a chance to take a commanding 3-0 series lead when the series shifts to Atlanta for Game 3 on Saturday, April 22nd.

The takeaway

This series has the potential to be a back-and-forth battle between two talented teams, but the Knicks' balance and experience could give them the edge if they can maintain their defensive intensity and control the pace of the game.