How the Knicks' versatility overwhelmed the Hawks and why it matters going forward in the playoffs

After a brutal Game 3 loss in Atlanta put New York in a 2-1 hole, many thought their worst fears about this team were realized. There was no cohesion -- the offense looked directionless, the defense debilitated by the team’s best player. The three games that followed were a complete reversion.

The Knicks topped the Hawks by 16, 29, and a whopping 51 points to close the series, making their strongest statement of readiness to contend to date. It was only a first round against an upstart team, but may have solidified what this team’s winning identity will be these playoffs: versatility. The postseason is all about matchups and adjustments, and the Knicks have all the talent but sometimes struggled with utilizing it.

It didn’t look that way to close out the Hawks. Everything coach Mike Brown preached and implemented were executed to glowing perfection. The Knicks ate the early struggle and adjusted to win the series -- here’s how.

Apr 30, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; New York Knicks head coach Mike Brown talks to guard Jose Alvarado (5) against the Atlanta Hawks in the second quarter during game six of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images / © Brett Davis-Imagn Images Their biggest issue through three games was the offense -- completely freezing down the stretch of Game 2 and well into Game 3. The biggest issue was Jalen Brunson struggling outside of the first quarter of the postseason, and the Knicks failing to get other creators to pick up the slack.