Episode 266 | SMASH N GRAB WIN VERSUS THE KNICKS!!!!
Get the full intelligence
Search transcripts, export clips, track mentions, and explore all topics from “Episode 266 | SMASH N GRAB WIN VERSUS THE KNICKS!!!!” inside PodZeus.
The Atlanta Hawks pulled off a stunning 107-106 victory over the New York Knicks in Game 2 of their playoff series, overcoming a 14-point deficit and trailing for 91% of the game—a 'smash and grab' win described as one of the most gut-wrenching and improbable in recent Hawks playoff memory. Despite shooting just 1 of 12 from three in the second half and being outrebounded 14-6 on offensive boards, the Hawks clawed back thanks to clutch performances from CJ McCollum (32 points, 12 assists), Jonathan Kuminga (19 points, 35 minutes, +9), and a game-changing defensive effort led by Quinn Snyder’s in-game adjustments. The podcast hosts emphasize that the win wasn’t just about talent—it was about heart, coaching, and mental toughness, with the Knicks collapsing under pressure despite having the game in their grasp. The Hawks’ bench, including Corey Kispert and Tony Bradley, delivered unexpectedly, while the Knicks’ poor free-throw shooting (10 missed) and questionable coaching decisions—especially Mike Brown’s bench-heavy fourth quarter—proved costly. The hosts argue this win stole home-court advantage and shifted momentum, but warn that the Hawks must improve offensively and defensively, particularly in limiting offensive rebounds and getting consistent production from Jalen Johnson and Nikhil Alexander-Walker. They also call for bold lineup experimentation, including potential minutes for rookie Asa Newell, to combat injury-depleted depth.
The Hawks won Game 2 despite trailing for 91% of the game and being down by 14 points, making it a true 'smash and grab' victory.
CJ McCollum delivered 32 points and 12 assists, with his two missed free throws at the end becoming the defining moment of the game.
Jonathan Kuminga played a career-best game (19 points, 35 minutes, +9) and was the primary defender on Julius Randle, physically overpowering him.
Quinn Snyder’s in-game coaching adjustments—especially using Corey Kispert and Tony Bradley together—were pivotal in turning the tide.
The Hawks’ bench contributed 15 points, with Kispert and Bradley playing key roles despite limited minutes and roster uncertainty.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Game 2 Win: A 'Smash and Grab' Against All Odds
“For 91% of this game, the New York Knicks led. For 3% of this game, the Atlanta Hawks led. And 6% of this game, the game was tied. So for 3% for this entire game, the Atlanta Hawks had a lead, which is just absurd.”
CJ McCollum’s Heroics and the Missed Free Throws
“Misses both free throws. They push and transition. Mikael Bridges takes a step up, pull up midranger front rims. Game over.”
Quinn Snyder’s Coaching Genius and Bench Impact
“The reason why the Hawks went from down nine to basically tied in the second quarter was because Quinn Snyder... Mike Brown made a mistake and played almost a full bench sign-up, and Quinn Snyder was able to pull out his own sort of quirky lineup...”
The Knicks’ Collapse and Self-Inflicted Wounds
The hosts argue the Knicks lost the game not because of the Hawks’ brilliance, but due to their own mistakes—missed free throws, poor shot selection, and coaching errors. They believe the Knicks ‘shriveled up’ in the final minutes.
Offensive Struggles and the Need for Change
The Hawks’ offensive inefficiency is dissected, especially the 1-of-12 three-point shooting in the second half. The hosts call for a shift to a faster, more aggressive style—‘seven seconds or less’—to avoid getting stalled by the Knicks’ defense.
“Misses both free throws. They push and transition. Mikael Bridges takes a step up, pull up midranger front rims. Game over.”
“For 91% of this game, the New York Knicks led. For 3% of this game, the Atlanta Hawks led. And 6% of this game, the game was tied. So for 3% for this entire game, the Atlanta Hawks had a lead, which is just absurd.”
“I mean, the Knicks pretty much go scoreless. I mean, obviously, you know, butterfly effect and all that. Yeah. Who cares? Um, I mean, the Knicks, I mean, their offense was dead at that point.”
Hosts
atlanta hawks
other
new york knicks
other
cj mccollum
person
jonathan kuminga
person
quinn snyder
person
jalen brunson
person
mitchell robinson
person
julius randle
person
mikael bridges
person
corey kispert
person
Episode 262 | The Hawks Have Arrived.
Hox Talks - An Atlanta Hawks Podcast • 1h 2m • 4/4/2026
Episode 263 | The Playoff BOUND Atlanta Hawks.
Hox Talks - An Atlanta Hawks Podcast • 1h 8m • 4/11/2026
Episode 264 | Hawks, Playoffs, LETS DO THIS
Hox Talks - An Atlanta Hawks Podcast • 1h 14m • 4/14/2026
Episode 265 | The Hawks Drop Game One Against The Knicks.
Hox Talks - An Atlanta Hawks Podcast • 55m • 4/19/2026
Episode 267 | Hawks Win Close In Game 3!
Hox Talks - An Atlanta Hawks Podcast • 55m • 4/24/2026
Get the full intelligence
Search transcripts, export clips, track mentions, and explore all topics from “Episode 266 | SMASH N GRAB WIN VERSUS THE KNICKS!!!!” inside PodZeus.
Start discovering podcast insights today
Start with a 7-day trial and explore a growing catalog of popular podcasts. No credit card required.
No credit card required • 7-day trial • Cancel anytime