Knicks Gain 3-2 Series Lead Over Hawks with Physical Play in Game 5

The Knicks held an 18-point advantage in points in the paint and collected 21 more rebounds than the Hawks, leading to an 11-point edge in second-chance points.

Hawks player Dyson Daniels stated that the Knicks aimed to be physical and succeeded in doing so. Knicks coach Mike Brown said the team focused on boxing out, limiting the Hawks to five offensive rebounds. Brown noted that OG Anunoby and Karl-Anthony Towns combined for 22 defensive rebounds and each recorded a double-double.

Over the last two games, the Knicks have won by blowout margins following two one-point losses earlier in the series. Karl-Anthony Towns said the team executed with physicality, allowing them to control the game flow. The Knicks limited the Hawks to four fast-break points in Game 5 and seven in Game 4, forcing a half-court style of play.

The Knicks assigned Josh Hart to guard CJ McCollum, who scored six points on 3-for-10 shooting. Hawks coach Quin Snyder said the Knicks' defense prevented the Hawks from establishing their preferred style. Snyder added that the Hawks need to impose their will offensively through movement and passing.

Hawks player Onyeka Okongwu said the team must stand firm against the Knicks' physicality and prevent drives to the paint. Knicks player Jordan Clarkson anticipated the Hawks would respond with aggression on the glass and in transition.