NBA Playoffs Game 2 Double-Header: Knicks–Hawks & Nuggets–Timberwolves Live Tonight

Knicks look to take 2-0 lead, Nuggets host Timberwolves in late-night West matchup

Apr. 20, 2026 at 11:35am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the dynamic movements and energy of a basketball game, with players' forms broken down into abstract shapes and colors.The NBA playoffs' intense, physical battles are captured in a cubist-inspired illustration that deconstructs the action on the court.NYC Today

The NBA playoffs continue tonight with a double-header featuring Game 2 matchups between the New York Knicks and Atlanta Hawks, and the Denver Nuggets and Minnesota Timberwolves. The Knicks enter as the favorites at home, while the Nuggets look to defend their home court against the visiting Timberwolves.

Why it matters

These Game 2 matchups could set the tone for the rest of the first-round series, with the winners gaining valuable momentum. The Knicks and Nuggets are both looking to take a 2-0 lead, while the Hawks and Timberwolves aim to even the series before heading home.

The details

In the Knicks-Hawks game, New York is coming off a Game 1 victory and will look to feed off the energy of the Madison Square Garden crowd. Atlanta, the No. 6 seed, will need to find a way to slow down the Knicks' offense and get production from their key players like Jalen Johnson and CJ McCollum. The late-night Nuggets-Timberwolves matchup pits Denver's star-driven offense against Minnesota's physical, defensive-minded approach. The Timberwolves will have their full roster available, including Anthony Edwards, as they try to even the series.

  • The Knicks-Hawks game tips off at 8:00 p.m. ET on Monday, April 20.
  • The Nuggets-Timberwolves game follows at 10:30 p.m. ET on the same night.

The players

Jalen Johnson

A versatile forward for the Atlanta Hawks who will be a key contributor in their effort to even the series.

CJ McCollum

The veteran guard for the Hawks who brings playoff experience and shooting ability to the team.

Dyson Daniels

An emerging player for the Hawks who has impressed with his rebounding and playmaking, making him a potential X-factor in Game 2.

Anthony Edwards

The star guard for the Minnesota Timberwolves who has been cleared to play after a late-season absence, giving the team a boost as they try to even the series.

Julius Randle

The Timberwolves' power forward who is off the injury report and ready to contribute in Game 2.

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What’s next

The winner of each Game 2 matchup will take a 2-0 series lead, putting them in a strong position to advance to the next round of the playoffs.

The takeaway

These Game 2 playoff matchups feature compelling storylines, from the Knicks' home-court advantage to the Timberwolves' fully healthy roster. The outcomes could significantly impact the rest of the first-round series, making these must-watch games for NBA fans and bettors alike.