The New York Knicks had a strong 2025-26 regular season, but the most important part of their year was the Playoffs. They managed to reach the Eastern Conference Finals last year, and now, they want even more this time around.
First on their docket is the first-round series against the Atlanta Hawks. While the Knicks are considered favorites, they know they have a competitive series going on here. That is why superstar guard Jalen Brunson made sure to set the tone with a massive first quarter performance that carried over to the rest of the team.
Mike Brown celebrates Jalen Brunson for setting the tone with a 19-point first quarter in Game 1
Brunson was on fire to start the game, hitting shots all over the court. Scoring 19 points in the first quarter helped the Knicks get off to a 30-24 start. The Knicks won 113-102, taking every quarter except the second.
The rest of the team benefited from that start because the Hawks had to always think about defending Brunson. For the rest of the game, Brunson only had to score nine more points because Karl-Anthony Towns was superb with his 25-point night.
OG Anunoby also had a great night, scoring 18 points, while only missing three of his nine attempts. It was a well-rounded night from the Knicks, as the starters all scored in double figures, while the bench provided the spark they needed.
Deuce McBride was a standout because of his defense, truly boosting the Knicks’ chances. Head coach Mike Brown was ecstatic about the Knicks’ performance, but he made sure to credit Brunson for his first quarter explosion.
“It’s big. He stepped up to the plate like he should have done, and he hit some big shots for us early to help us get out front. Anytime he gets going, it’s always been a positive for us,” Brown said about Brunson’s fantastic start to the series.
As the Knicks continue in this series, they have the advantage of having the best player on the floor with Brunson. They might even have the second-best player with Towns. Most of the Hawks are younger players, especially their star, Jalen Johnson. It will be a long series, but Brunson’s stardom could be the key to the Knicks’ success yet again.