Knicks Crush Hawks 114-98: KAT Triple-Double Evens Series at 2-2

The New York Knicks responded to their Game 3 setback with a comprehensive 114-98 demolition of the Atlanta Hawks in Game 4 on Saturday, levelling their Eastern Conference first-round series at two games apiece. Karl-Anthony Towns was magnificent with a 20-10-10 triple-double, while OG Anunoby added 22 points and 10 rebounds.

Defence Sets the Tone

Tom Thibodeau's gameplan was crystal clear from tip-off: suffocate Atlanta's transition game and make them work in the half-court. The Knicks held the Hawks to just 36 per cent shooting in the first half and built a 17-point lead that was never seriously threatened. Jalen Brunson orchestrated the offence with 19 points and 8 assists, keeping the ball moving and finding the open man.

Towns Dominates

Karl-Anthony Towns was the standout performer, controlling the paint at both ends. His 20 points came on efficient 8-of-14 shooting, while his 10 rebounds and 10 assists showed the all-round game he has developed since arriving in New York. The big man's ability to find cutters from the high post was a particular weapon that Atlanta had no answer for.

Hawks Struggle

For Atlanta, Trae Young was held to 15 points on 6-of-19 shooting as the Knicks swarmed him with doubles and traps. Jonathan Kuminga, the surprise star of Games 2 and 3, managed just 12 points. Coach Quin Snyder will need to find new solutions as the series returns to Madison Square Garden for a pivotal Game 5.

The momentum has swung emphatically back towards New York. With home court advantage for Game 5, the Knicks will fancy their chances of taking a 3-2 lead heading back to Atlanta.