CJ McCollum leads late rally as Hawks stun Knicks to tie series
ESPN • • general
Key Points:
- CJ McCollum led the Atlanta Hawks to a 107-106 victory over the New York Knicks in Game 2 of their first-round playoff series, scoring 32 points and six assists, including crucial baskets in the final minutes.
- McCollum's fourth-quarter performance helped the Hawks overcome a 14-point deficit in the third quarter, tying the series at one game apiece and intensifying the rivalry in a hostile Madison Square Garden environment.
- The game featured increased physicality and tension, with McCollum and Knicks guard Jose Alvarado receiving technical fouls after a verbal exchange, highlighting the chippy nature of the series.
- Knicks players Karl-Anthony Towns and Mitchell Robinson dominated the third quarter, but the Knicks struggled offensively in the fourth, shooting poorly while the Hawks shot 72% to close out the game.
- McCollum expressed appreciation for playing meaningful playoff basketball with the Hawks after a midseason trade, embracing the hostile environment as a sign of respect from passionate fans.
