Hawks' Fourth‑Quarter Shooting Surge Fuels Playoff Upset Over Knicks

Context Game 2 of the Eastern Conference first‑round series was played in New York. The Hawks had trailed by as many as 14 points in the third quarter and held only a brief 36‑35 lead before their rally. A win would even the best‑of‑seven matchup and shift momentum toward Atlanta.

Key Facts CJ McCollum finished with 32 points, six of which came in the final two‑plus minutes. Atlanta shot 72.2% from the field in the fourth quarter (13‑for‑18), while New York managed just 22.7% (5‑for‑22). The Hawks overcame an eight‑point deficit in the last five minutes, closing the game on a 15‑6 run to win 107‑106.

What It Means The victory ties the series, giving Atlanta home‑court advantage for Game 3 scheduled for Thursday in Atlanta. New York must address its fourth‑quarter shooting woes and defensive lapses in the closing minutes. Atlanta will look to maintain its high‑percentage shooting and late‑game execution to take a series lead.

What to watch next Whether the Hawks can sustain their fourth‑quarter efficiency and if the Knicks adjust their offense to counter Atlanta’s late‑game surge.