Saturday’s Game 1 between the New York Knicks and Atlanta Hawks at Madison Square Garden opens a compelling first-round series, with New York entering as a clear favorite thanks to home-court advantage, elite late-game execution, and the star power of Jalen Brunson. The Knicks finished as the No. 3 seed and have been dominant in clutch situations all season. Meanwhile, Atlanta arrives as one of the league’s hottest teams, winning the bulk of its games down the stretch behind breakout forward Jalen Johnson and a balanced, pass-heavy offense. New York’s defensive versatility, featuring wings like OG Anunoby and Josh Hart, will be key in slowing Atlanta’s pace, while the Hawks will look to test the Knicks’ consistency with their depth and momentum. ...read more read less