Mikal Bridges, Jalen Johnson and more Knicks-Hawks questions to ponder
The New York Times • • sports
Key Points:
- The Knicks-Hawks Eastern Conference first-round series is tied 2-2, with Game 5 approaching and both teams facing key player performance questions, particularly regarding Knicks' Mikal Bridges and Hawks' Jonathan Kuminga.
- Knicks' Mikal Bridges has struggled offensively, leading coach Mike Brown to increase minutes for Miles McBride and Jordan Clarkson, who have contributed well but require continued productivity to avoid giving Atlanta an advantage.
- Hawks' guard Dyson Daniels has effectively defended Knicks' Jalen Brunson, limiting his scoring and playmaking, while Hawks' Jalen Johnson has faced challenges against Knicks' physical defense, impacting Atlanta's offensive flow.
- Knicks' Josh Hart has emerged as a vital defensive presence, successfully containing Hawks' top scorers and setting the tone for New York's defensive intensity, which is crucial for their playoff success.
- Key X-factors for the remainder of the series include Knicks' Miles McBride, who must maintain shooting and defense, and Hawks' Mitchell Robinson, whose defensive and rebounding impact could influence game outcomes despite limited minutes.
