Knicks Adjust After Halftime Against Hawks in Game 1

It was almost like a light switch went on when the Knicks managed to counter the Hawks’ strategy that had troubled them. This change became evident right after halftime in Game 1.

Typically, on-ball screens feature a smaller ball handler teaming up with a larger player, aiming to create mismatches. However, the Hawks opted for a less conventional approach during their 113-102 win over the Knicks in the first game of their Eastern Conference first-round series at Madison Square Garden.

Instead of the usual setup, Atlanta executed a series of small screens involving guards, which initially gave the Knicks defense a hard time in the first half. The Hawks excelled particularly in the second quarter, making 9 of 18 field goals and hitting 5 of 7 from beyond the arc to wipe out an 11-point deficit. Yet, the Knicks made crucial adjustments and turned the game around in the third quarter, limiting the Hawks to 8-of-21 shooting and only 2-of-7 from three-point range while gradually rebuilding their lead.

“Their little pick-and-roll can definitely be an issue,” noted coach Mike Brown after the game. “In the second half, we did a solid job defending it. They exploited some openings early on, but our physical play and communication improved after halftime. We didn’t give away any fouls, which helped.”

Smaller actions typically included CJ McCollum and Nickel Alexander-Walker. This tactic seemed to work in favor of the Hawks as they primarily guarded McCollum and looked to exploit Jalen Brunson, who’s not known for his defensive prowess.

Brunson struggled notably against McCollum in that first half, allowing him many open shots. McCollum ended up scoring 12 of his 26 points in just the second quarter. While Alexander-Walker also got some open looks, he was unable to capitalize on them.

Yet, with a 39.9 percent shooting rate from three, Alexander-Walker had been taking a lot of shots (averaging 8.1 per game). It’s fair to assume the Knicks didn’t expect him to keep missing high-quality chances.

“They’ve really honed their skills with this approach,” Brunson remarked during Sunday’s practice. “When they come off screens, they’re quick and ready to shoot. We’ve got to step up our physicality, communicate better, and not give them any room. Many teams struggle with this unique action because it can easily open up space for either of their ball handlers.”

The Hawks really shine with their agile guards and wings, rather than relying on size.

This situation seemed to present Atlanta with one of their few advantages on paper in this series. The Knicks had inconsistent perimeter and three-point defense throughout the season, which had been a talking point, although it saw improvement near the end. Miscommunication was often central to their issues.

In some instances, that vulnerability was clearly exposed.

“We must enhance our communication, especially when guarding,” Josh Hart acknowledged on Sunday. “We played decently in the first game, but there’s definitely room for improvement.”

“I mean, we can tackle this. It’s about not allowing those two [McCollum and Alexander-Walker] to get clean shots. They’re very talented, and we want to make them take as many contested shots as we can. Better communication is key. While I felt physically alright, I know I can improve there too… They have a clever way of using screens, and we’ve got to be sharper.”

This method could have broader implications, especially if the Knicks find themselves up against a team like the Celtics in the second round.

“Boston really excels in this area. I wouldn’t say they invented it, but they’ve taken it to another level,” Hart reflected. “It’s a copycat league—teams observe and adjust. How do we counter that? Enhanced communication seems to be the best way.”

For now, the Hawks’ strategic movements aren’t causing significant issues for the Knicks, but they certainly remain a persistent challenge.