Did CJ McCollum Just Change the Series Momentum for Good?

Just when it looked like the Atlanta Hawks were heading for a tough 0-2 hole, CJ McCollum flipped the script in dramatic fashion. In Game 2 of the NBA Playoffs, Atlanta stormed back from a double-digit fourth-quarter deficit to stun the New York Knicks 107-106 at Madison Square Garden.

The result? A tied 1-1 series—and suddenly, all the pressure shifts. If you blinked in the fourth quarter, you probably missed the comeback.

Hawks Flip the Game in the Fourth

For three quarters, the Knicks looked comfortable—like a team already planning their next win. But the fourth quarter told a completely different story.

Trailing by 12 entering the final period, Atlanta came alive with a 20-9 run, tightening the screws defensively and forcing New York into tough shots. The Knicks managed just 15 points in the last 12 minutes, shooting a cold 5-of-19 from the field.

It was the kind of collapse that leaves fans staring at the screen thinking, “Wait… what just happened?”

CJ McCollum Takes Over at Crunch Time

When the Hawks needed a leader, McCollum delivered—calm, composed, and absolutely clutch. The veteran guard dropped a game-high 32 points and added six assists, but it was his late-game brilliance that stole the spotlight.

He scored six of Atlanta’s final eight points, including a smooth go-ahead layup in the final minutes and a tough fadeaway over OG Anunoby that felt like the dagger.

Even with a rare miss at the free-throw line late, McCollum had already done enough damage. Think of it like missing dessert after finishing a full-course meal—the job was already done.

Knicks Let It Slip Away Again

For the Knicks, this loss will sting. Jalen Brunson led the way with 29 points and seven assists, while Josh Hart (15 points, 13 rebounds) and Karl-Anthony Towns (18 points, eight boards) provided solid support.

But missed opportunities defined the night. A late three from Brunson gave hope, and Mikal Bridges had a clean look to win it—but it didn’t fall.

Worse still, this wasn’t a one-off issue. New York showed similar cracks late in Game 1, raising real concerns about their ability to close out tight playoff games. Right now, finishing strong looks like their biggest opponent.

Defense and Hustle Seal the Deal

Atlanta’s comeback wasn’t just about scoring—it was about grit. A crucial block by Nickeil Alexander-Walker on Brunson sparked a fast-break opportunity that extended the lead late.

That sequence summed up the Hawks’ mindset: aggressive, fearless, and unwilling to go quietly. It’s the kind of hustle that can swing a playoff series—and maybe even define it.

Series Shifts to Atlanta with Momentum

With the series tied 1-1, the Hawks now head home with momentum and belief on their side. McCollum’s arrival—following the blockbuster trade that sent Trae Young to the Washington Wizards—is already paying off in a big way.

Game 3 in Atlanta suddenly feels like a turning point. If the Knicks can’t fix their late-game struggles, this series could slip away faster than expected.

As for the Hawks? They’ve already stolen one on the road. Now, as McCollum hinted, it’s “showtime” back in Atlanta. And if Game 2 was any preview, fans should buckle up—this series is just getting started.

FAQ:

Also Read: Is Anthony Edwards Becoming the NBA Playoff Superstar Right Now?

👉 If you like our content, please click here and add us as your preferred source. It helps us a lot, and we are committed to delivering you the very latest sports news.