CJ McCollum Ignites Late Rally, Hawks Shock Knicks to Even Series
In New York, the Atlanta Hawks rallied to beat the New York Knicks 107-106 on Monday night. The win tied the first-round playoff series at one game apiece.
Late-game heroics
CJ McCollum led the comeback with 32 points. CJ McCollum Ignites Late Rally as he hit crucial baskets down the stretch.
Atlanta had trailed for the entire second half and entered the fourth down by 12. McCollum’s jumper gave the Hawks a 101-100 lead with 2:09 remaining.
He followed with a three-point play, then answered Jalen Brunson’s tying 3-pointer. McCollum’s next jumper made it 105-103 with 33 seconds left.
McCollum missed two free throws with 5.6 seconds left, briefly leaving the outcome uncertain. Mikal Bridges missed the Knicks’ final shot as time expired.
Bench and supporting performances
Jonathan Kuminga delivered 19 points off the bench. Jalen Johnson added 17, including a late basket that pushed the margin to four with 10 seconds left.
Jalen Brunson led New York with 29 points. Karl-Anthony Towns finished with 18 points after scoring just four in the first half.
Josh Hart recorded 15 points, 13 rebounds and six assists. The Knicks held a 78-64 lead in the third quarter.
Temper and context
McCollum and Jose Alvarado were assessed technical fouls after a third-quarter confrontation. McCollum, acquired in January in the Trae Young trade, dominated late.
The Hawks, seeded sixth, will host Game 3 on Thursday. Hawks Shock Knicks to Even Series was the headline after Atlanta’s comeback victory.
Season implications
The Knicks aim to reach the second round for a fourth straight season. That stretch would be New York’s longest since the 1990s if they advance.
Filmogaz.com will provide continued coverage and analysis as the series shifts to Atlanta for the next game.
