If you’ve been looking into Hawks stun Knicks, you could feel the tension in the arena. Down by eight with just four minutes left, it looked like the Knicks were about to take a commanding 3-1 lead in the series. But then, CJ McCollum decided enough was enough.
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McCollum’s Heroics: How the Hawks stun Knicks
Let’s be clear: McCollum was on another level in the fourth quarter and overtime. He scored 18 of his 37 points in that span, repeatedly hitting tough shots with a hand in his face. The Knicks just had no answer. It wasn’t just the scoring, though. He was making the right reads, finding open teammates, and playing with a confidence that spread throughout the entire Hawks team.
One play that really stands out? With the Hawks down by three in overtime, McCollum drove to the basket, drawing two defenders, then kicked it out to De’Andre Hunter for a wide-open three. Bang. Tie game. That’s not just scoring; that’s leadership. On the flip side, that’s making the guys around you better. And frankly, that’s what the Hawks needed. Check out our guide on Kentucky Spring Game: Offense Triumphs 23-18 Despite Weather. We covered this in 2026 Play-In Tournament Live: Warriors vs. Suns Showdown.
Here’s the thing — And his impact on team morale? Immeasurable. You could see the energy shift on the Hawks’ bench every time he made a big play. They started believing they could win, even when it seemed like all hope was lost. Credit to Coach Pierce for trusting McCollum down the stretch. It paid off big time.
Knicks’ Late-Game Collapse: What Went Wrong?
The Knicks simply couldn’t score when they needed to. Their offense became stagnant, relying too much on isolation plays and contested jumpers. Julius Randle, who had been so good earlier in the series, struggled mightily in the fourth quarter. He forced shots, turned the ball over, and just didn’t look like the same player.
Defensively, they couldn’t contain McCollum. They tried switching, trapping, and even throwing different looks at him, but he was unfazed. He was hitting shots over everyone and finding ways to get to the basket. A complete defensive breakdown at the worst possible time. It’s tough to watch.
RJ Barrett also had a tough night, shooting just 4-15 from the field. When your two stars are struggling like that in the fourth quarter of a playoff game, you’re not gonna win many games. Point blank. They’ve got to figure out how to get them better looks and get them going early in Game 5.
Key Stats and Moments from Hawks’ Game 4 Win
Looking at the box score, a few things jump out. First, the Hawks won the rebounding battle 48-42. Those extra possessions were crucial, especially in a close game. Clint Capela was a monster on the glass, grabbing 15 rebounds.
The Hawks also shot 48% from the field, compared to the Knicks’ 42%. That’s a significant difference. They moved the ball well, found open shots, and made the Knicks pay for their defensive lapses. Consider that the Hawks had 28 assists to the Knicks’ 19. Big difference.
Fair warning: Turning points? Several. Hunter’s game-tying three in overtime was huge, obviously. But don’t forget Trae Young’s steal and layup with a minute left in regulation to cut the Knicks’ lead to two. That play injected some much-needed energy into the Hawks. And Bogdan Bogdanovic had a huge block late in the fourth to prevent a Knicks basket. Little plays like that can swing a game.
The Hawks’ bench also outscored the Knicks’ bench 35-20. Kevin Huerter provided a spark with 12 points, while Danilo Gallinari chipped in with 8. The Knicks’ bench, on the other hand, was largely ineffective. A lot of credit to the Hawks’ role players stepping up when it mattered most.
Series Tied: What This Means for Both Teams
This series is now a best-of-three. With the Hawks Knicks series tied, momentum has definitely shifted in favor of Atlanta. After that kind of comeback win, they’re going to be playing with a ton of confidence heading into Game 5. They know they can beat the Knicks, even when they’re down.
For the Knicks, this is a gut-wrenching loss. They had the game in their grasp, but they let it slip away. They need to regroup, refocus, and figure out how to close out games. They can’t afford to dwell on this loss, though. They need to learn from it and come out strong in Game 5.
Looking ahead to Game 5, the Hawks need to continue to play with energy and intensity. They need to move the ball, find open shots, and defend with a purpose. And, yes, they need McCollum to keep playing at an All-Star level.
The Knicks need to get Randle and Barrett going early. They need to find ways to generate easy baskets and get their confidence back. They also need to tighten up their defense, especially on McCollum. Easier said than done, I know.
CJ McCollum’s Impact on the Hawks Playoff Run
CJ McCollum clutch performance has been nothing short of spectacular. He’s not just a scorer; he’s a leader. He sets the tone for the team, both on and off the court. He’s the kind of player you want leading your team in the playoffs. He’s been there before, and it shows.
His ability to create his own shot is invaluable. When the offense bogs down, he can always get a bucket. And he’s not afraid to take the big shot. That confidence is contagious. No question about it.
Here’s what most people miss: What about the Atlanta Hawks playoff chances? A lot depends on McCollum. If he continues to play at this level, they have a legitimate shot to make a deep run in the playoffs. But if he struggles, they’re going to have a tough time. It’s that simple. He is that important to this team.
Don’t get me wrong, the Hawks have other good players. Young is a dynamic playmaker, and Capela is a defensive force. But McCollum is the guy who can take over a game when they need him to. He’s the closer. And that’s what makes him so valuable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did CJ McCollum perform in Game 4?
Fair warning: CJ McCollum had a stellar performance, especially in the fourth quarter and overtime, leading the Hawks to victory with clutch shots and key plays. He showcased his scoring prowess and leadership, proving to be the difference-maker.
What caused the Knicks to collapse late in the game?
The Knicks struggled offensively in the final minutes and experienced defensive breakdowns, allowing McCollum to exploit their weaknesses. Key players also underperformed, contributing to their inability to close out the game.
What are the Hawks’ chances of winning the series now that it’s tied?
With the series tied, the Hawks have significantly improved their chances. McCollum’s inspiring play and the team’s newfound momentum could propel them forward. Then again, they need to maintain their intensity and capitalize on their opportunities.
What adjustments can the Knicks make for Game 5?
The Knicks must address their late-game offensive struggles and improve their defensive execution, especially against McCollum. They need to find ways to generate better scoring opportunities and limit turnovers to regain control of the series.
who’s CJ McCollum?
CJ McCollum is a professional basketball player known for his scoring ability, leadership, and clutch performances. He has been a key player on multiple teams, making a name for himself as a reliable and dynamic player in the NBA. He is now on the Hawks and is proving his worth.
This series is far from over. The Knicks are a resilient team, and they’re going to come out fighting in Game 5. But the Hawks have something special going on right now. They have a leader in McCollum, they have a team that believes in each other, and they have momentum on their side. Will the Knicks recover? Or will the Hawks continue their improbable run? Only time will tell. But one thing’s for sure: it’s going to be a fun ride.
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