Knicks Secure Victory Over Hawks with Brunson’s Late Surge

ATLANTA — Captain Crutch is back in action.

Despite struggling in earlier parts of the game, Jalen Brunson, the point guard, made a significant impact when it mattered most.

He scored 17 of his 30 points in the fourth quarter, helping the Knicks secure a 108-105 victory over the Hawks. His performance included a crucial pull-up jumper with just 30 seconds left on the clock, showcasing his knack for delivering under pressure.

This game-winner came during an isolation play against Atlanta’s CJ McCollum, emphasizing Brunson’s ability to create shots when the heat is on. It served as a reminder that, despite some flaws, the Knicks may be the most reliable team in high-pressure scenarios.

Victory was uncertain until the very end. McCollum attempted a last-ditch shot that could have tied the game, but the referees ruled it was after the buzzer, allowing the Knicks to walk away with the win.

Up until that fourth quarter, Brunson wasn’t at his best, shooting just 11-for-26, partly due to Atlanta’s aggressive defense and the efforts of their All-Defensive selection, Dyson Daniels.

Nevertheless, Brunson persevered, turning the game into a critical win for New York.

It was clearly a pivotal moment for the Knicks.

After five consecutive losses to teams with winning records, and as the playoffs draw near, Coach Mike Brown opted to give more playing time to key players like Brunson (39 minutes) and OG Anunoby (37 minutes) to solidify a playoff rotation.

With Charles Oakley watching from the stands, the Knicks found themselves in a tight spot until midway through the third quarter, when they initiated a 20-8 run to overcome a significant deficit.

Then, it was Brunson’s time to shine.

Both teams were highly energized, adding extra weight to what felt like an important April matchup, impacting playoff seeding in the process.

The Hawks, having won 18 of their last 20 games, were striving for a playoff berth for the first time in three years, targeting the No. 5 seed. On the other hand, the Knicks, with a record of 51-28, have already secured a postseason spot but remain in the hunt for seeding, eyeing the No. 2 or No. 4 positions. This win makes the upcoming game against the Celtics at Madison Square Garden even more crucial.

Coach Brown utilized a nine-man rotation, with players like Miles McBride, Mitchell Robinson, Landry Shamet, and Jordan Clarkson contributing off the bench.

This strategy meant that Jose Alvarado had a rare night off.

“I’m feeling good, I’m relaxed,” Alvarado said. “I’m just waiting for my opportunity. When my time comes, I’ll be ready.”

Looking beyond the immediate competitive implications, the Knicks are keen on building momentum as they head into the postseason, which holds higher expectations than they’ve experienced in years.

Owner James Dolan made it clear earlier in the year: it’s finals or disappointment.

“We’re aware of what’s happening in the rest of the league,” noted Karl-Anthony Towns. “They recognize what we’re capable of.”

Towns also expressed his readiness for the pressure. “High expectations have been part of my journey since before I entered the league. Honestly, my own expectations exceed what others have for me.”

The Knicks and Hawks could potentially face off in the first round of the playoffs, though that depends on the final standings. As things currently stand, the Knicks are in fourth place, potentially facing either Toronto or Philadelphia. The Hawks hold fifth place and are likely to encounter the Cavaliers.

If the Knicks can finish strong against their remaining playoff-bound opponents, including the Hawks, they might position themselves well for the first round.

And with Brunson as their closer, there’s a sense that they’re set for an exciting finish.