Hawks Steal Game 2 Late, Even Series at 1-1

The margin for error in the playoffs is razor thin—and Monday night proved exactly why.

The Atlanta Hawks made the plays when it mattered most, escaping with a 107-106 win over the New York Knicks to even the series at 1-1 as it shifts back to Atlanta for Game 3.

For much of the second half, Atlanta looked in control. Behind steady scoring from CJ McCollum and timely contributions from Jalen Johnson, the Hawks built a lead that stretched to double digits entering the fourth quarter. Atlanta’s defense forced tough looks while turning stops into transition points, a formula that had them firmly in the driver’s seat.

But playoff basketball rarely follows a script.

The Knicks, led by Jalen Brunson, stormed back. Brunson caught fire late, drilling a clutch three-pointer with just over a minute remaining to tie the game at 103-103, erasing what had once been a comfortable Atlanta cushion.

Still, the Hawks had answers. McCollum responded with a tough mid-range jumper to put Atlanta back in front, and Johnson followed with a thunderous fast-break dunk to extend the lead to four with just 10 seconds remaining.

This time, it was enough.

New York had one final push. Brunson knocked down a deep three with eight seconds left to cut it to one, setting up a tense finish. After a trip to the line, Atlanta left the door slightly open—but closed it on the defensive end.

On the final possession, a contested fadeaway from Mikal Bridges came up empty as time expired, sealing the one-point victory for Atlanta.

The Hawks will take the result, but the finish offered a reminder of how quickly momentum can swing in the postseason. Despite controlling long stretches, Atlanta had to withstand a furious rally before finally putting it away.

With the series now tied, the Hawks return home for Game 3 on Thursday with momentum—and a chance to take control on their home floor.