NBA playoffs: CJ McCollum, Hawks erupt in fourth quarter to stun Knicks and even series 1-1

April 21, 2026 - 01:12

The Atlanta Hawks, facing a critical 0-2 deficit, authored a stunning comeback on Monday night to steal Game 2 from the New York Knicks and level their first-round playoff series at one game apiece. The victory was fueled by a dominant and decisive fourth-quarter explosion.

After trailing for much of the contest, the Hawks found their rhythm when it mattered most. Veteran guard CJ McCollum led the charge, catching fire from the perimeter and orchestrating the offense with precision. His scoring burst ignited the entire Atlanta lineup, transforming a tight game into a lopsided affair in the final period.

The Knicks, who had controlled the tempo for three quarters, completely unraveled under the Hawks' intensified pressure. Their offense grew stagnant, while their defense had no answer for Atlanta's sudden surge. Missed shots and turnovers plagued New York as their chance to seize a commanding series lead evaporated.

This dramatic shift underscores the unpredictable nature of playoff basketball. The Hawks, now with regained home-court advantage, have demonstrated their resilience and ability to win in a hostile environment. The series heads to Atlanta fundamentally reset, promising heightened intensity as both teams recalibrate their strategies for a pivotal Game 3.