The Atlanta Hawks and New York Knicks are set to renew their Eastern Conference first-round rivalry in Game 2 of the 2026 NBA Playoffs, with both teams looking to gain an edge after a dramatic opening contest at Madison Square Garden. The series shifted to Atlanta following the Knicks’ 113-102 victory in Game 1, a result that set the tone for a hard-fought matchup defined by physical play and early controversy.
According to verified reports from the game’s aftermath, CJ McCollum drew a technical foul and a travel call during the second quarter after his leg made contact with Jalen Brunson in the groin area while attempting a jump shot. Officials reviewed the play and assessed the foul, prompting McCollum to criticize Brunson’s reaction, saying the Knicks guard “acted it out until they reviewed it” and compared it to a “Broadway demonstrate.” McCollum added that he was “looking forward to getting my $2,500 back,” referencing the potential fine for the technical.
Brunson, known for his composure, declined to engage in the war of words, telling reporters during Sunday’s practice that he had “no reaction” and “no comment” regarding McCollum’s remarks. Earlier, Brunson had downplayed the incident itself, stating it “wasn’t purposeful so we move forward.” Knicks head coach Mike Brown also said he had not seen McCollum’s comments, choosing to maintain the focus on basketball as the series prepared to resume in Atlanta.
McCollum later tempered his initial stance, acknowledging after reviewing game footage that there was contact on the play. Speaking to The Post ahead of Game 2, he explained that his natural fadeaway jump shot motion increases the chance of contact when defenders do not jump, adding that Brunson “wouldn’t have been hit” if he had leapt to contest the shot. McCollum said he was “sure [Brunson] had a excellent night of recovery and treatment” and was looking forward to the game just as the Hawks were.
The Knicks entered Game 1 with strong performances from Brunson, who scored 28 points and Karl-Anthony Towns, who provided a boost in the second half. Despite the early controversy, New York secured a 1-0 series lead thanks to balanced scoring and defensive resilience in the fourth quarter. Atlanta, meanwhile, will look to McCollum to spark their offense in Game 2 after his game-winning jumper in a previous matchup between the teams, as highlighted in verified replay footage from their last encounter.
As the series moves to State Farm Arena in Atlanta, the Hawks will aim to protect their home court and even the series at 1-1. The Knicks, conversely, will seek to build on their road steal and put pressure on Atlanta early in the return leg. Both teams understand that winning Game 2 could prove pivotal in a best-of-seven series where momentum often shifts after the first two games.
Looking ahead, the winner of Game 2 will hold either a 2-0 or 1-1 series advantage, with Game 3 scheduled to return to New York if the Knicks win in Atlanta, or remain in Atlanta if the Hawks even the series. The next confirmed checkpoint is Game 2 of the Eastern Conference first-round series between the Atlanta Hawks and New York Knicks, set to seize place at State Farm Arena on Sunday, April 26, 2026.
Stay tuned to Archysport for continued coverage of the Hawks-Knicks playoff matchup, including updates on player availability, tactical adjustments, and post-game reactions as the series progresses.
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