Knicks Eliminate Hawks in Game 5 as Karl-Anthony Towns Leads New York to Second Round

The New York Knicks punched their ticket to the second round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs with a dominant 126-97 victory over the Atlanta Hawks in Game 5, eliminating Atlanta from the postseason.

Karl-Anthony Towns Delivers

Karl-Anthony Towns was the standout performer for New York, delivering a commanding performance that showcased his ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor. His combination of interior scoring, stretch shooting, and defensive presence proved too much for Atlanta's frontcourt to handle.

After the game, Towns celebrated with partner Jordyn Woods and friends including Timothée Chalamet and Kylie Jenner — a sign of the star power the Knicks have brought to New York.

The Series

The Knicks won the series 4-1, a convincing margin that reflects New York's depth and defensive intensity throughout the five games. The Hawks, despite flashes of brilliance from their young core, were unable to match the Knicks' physicality and playoff experience.

What's Next

The Knicks advance to the Eastern Conference Semifinals, where they will await the winner of another first-round series. New York enters the second round with momentum and a healthy roster — a dangerous combination in a wide-open Eastern Conference.

NBA Playoffs Picture

Elsewhere in the first round, the San Antonio Spurs defeated the Portland Trail Blazers 4-1, while the Houston Rockets and Los Angeles Lakers are locked in a competitive series heading into Game 5.

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