Knicks Secure Game 1 Victory Over Atlanta Hawks

New York Knicks secured a 113-102 victory over the Atlanta Hawks in Game 1 of their Eastern Conference first-round playoff series at Madison Square Garden on April 18, 2026. The win marked a strong opening for New York, as they successfully managed the Hawks’ offensive threats and established early control in the matchup.

Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with a balanced performance, contributing 24 points, 7 assists and 4 rebounds while shooting efficiently from the field. His ability to penetrate the defense and create opportunities for teammates helped New York maintain offensive rhythm throughout the game. Brunson’s poise in critical moments, particularly during the third quarter when Atlanta briefly closed the gap, proved vital in stabilizing the Knicks’ lead.

We came in with a clear game plan: stay disciplined, protect the paint, and make them work for every shot. Jalen executed that perfectly tonight.

Tom Thibodeau, Knicks head coach

Defensively, New York held Atlanta to 42 percent shooting and limited Trae Young to 18 points on 6-of-18 shooting, forcing him into several tough contested looks. The Knicks’ perimeter defense, anchored by OG Anunoby and Josh Hart, disrupted Atlanta’s rhythm and contributed to 14 turnovers that New York converted into 18 points. Mitchell Robinson also provided a strong interior presence with 12 points, 10 rebounds, and three blocks, deterring drives into the paint.

The Hawks struggled with consistency, particularly from beyond the arc, shooting just 31 percent on three-point attempts. Despite Dejounte Murray’s 22 points and Clint Capela’s 14 rebounds, Atlanta lacked sufficient secondary scoring to keep pace when Young was contained. New York’s bench outscored Atlanta’s reserves 32-18, with Immanuel Quickley providing 14 points off the bench and hitting key shots in the fourth quarter to seal the outcome.

This victory gives the Knicks a 1-0 series lead as they prepare for Game 2, scheduled for April 20 at Madison Square Garden. New York aims to build on its defensive intensity and offensive balance, while Atlanta will look to adjust its offensive sets and improve perimeter shooting to avoid falling into a 0-2 deficit. The series continues with the next two games in Atlanta before potentially returning to New York if needed.