CJ McCollum’s clutch jumper lifts Hawks to commanding 2-1 series lead over Knicks
Apr 23, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard CJ McCollum (3) makes the go-ahead basket over New York Knicks guard Miles McBride (2) in the fourth quarter during game three of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
CJ McCollum continues to write his playoff legacy in Atlanta. The 34-year-old guard delivered another clutch performance Thursday night, hitting a 15-foot jumper with 12.5 seconds remaining to give the Hawks a thrilling 109-108 victory over the New York Knicks at home.
The game-winning shot came after McCollum ran around a screen to receive an inbounds pass, then calmly knocked down the decisive basket. It marked the second consecutive game where the veteran has delivered in crunch time, following his 32-point performance in Game 2 at Madison Square Garden.
McCollum embraces the pressure moments
« I’m comfortable with failure. I’m comfortable with success, » McCollum said after the game. « I’ve played a long time. I really cherish the game. »
Hawks coach Quin Snyder expressed complete confidence in his veteran guard’s ability to deliver when it matters most. « CJ hit a great shot, » Snyder said. « We have a ton of confidence in him being able to make those plays. »
McCollum finished with 23 points after a strong first half that saw him score 16 points. Though the Knicks limited his production after halftime, his teammates stepped up to maintain Atlanta’s advantage throughout most of the contest.
Supporting cast delivers crucial contributions
Jalen Johnson led the Hawks with 24 points, 10 rebounds and eight assists in a bounce-back performance. The forward’s near triple-double provided the steady presence Atlanta needed after some inconsistent showings earlier in the series.
Jonathan Kuminga proved to be another key factor, coming off the bench to score 21 points while playing exceptional defense. The forward, who joined Atlanta in a midseason trade, made a crucial steal that denied Jalen Brunson a potential game-winning shot on New York’s final possession.
« We all came together and knew we needed just one stop, » Kuminga said. « You’ve got to sacrifice out there and make a play. »
The Hawks’ defensive effort was exemplary throughout the night, holding one of the NBA‘s top offenses to 43% shooting and 29% from 3-points. Dyson Daniels contributed 13 rebounds while helping anchor the perimeter defense alongside Nickeil Alexander-Walker.
When Atlanta needed their go-to scorer with the game on the line, there was little doubt about who would take the shot. « I think the team has a real faith in me and my talent, » McCollum said, embodying the leadership role that once belonged to Trae Young before the franchise-altering trade to Washington.
Comments (0)