The New York Knicks delivered a historic beatdown to close out the Atlanta Hawks, putting together one of the most dominant playoff performances in recent memory. Behind a triple-double from Karl-Anthony Towns and blistering efficiency across the board, New York turned Game 6 into a wire-to-wire demolition.
The Knicks shot 58.8% from the field, forced 19 turnovers, and led by as many as 61 points in a statement win that felt over before it started. The Knicks set a playoff record 47-point lead at halftime, and with that in mind, here are the Knicks’ player ratings as the team heads into the second round.
Karl-Anthony Towns: A+
Game Stats: 12 PTS, 11 REB, 10 AST, 3 STL, 1 BLK, 3 TOV, 1-4 FG, 0-1 3PT, 10-10 FT, 28 MIN
A triple-double in a closeout game, Karl-Anthony Towns controlled everything without even needing to score much. His playmaking from the center position dissected Atlanta’s defense, constantly finding cutters and shooters. Even on an off shooting night, his impact was overwhelming, showcasing his versatility and basketball IQ at the highest level.
OG Anunoby: A+
Game Stats: 29 PTS, 7 REB, 2 AST, 4 STL, 1 BLK, 11-14 FG, 4-6 3PT, 3-5 FT, 27 MIN
OG Anunoby was nothing short of sensational, torching Atlanta with elite efficiency while wreaking havoc defensively. He picked his spots perfectly, knocking down threes, finishing inside, and turning defense into instant offense. His +42 plus-minus tells the story—he completely tilted the game whenever he was on the floor.
Mikal Bridges: A+
Game Stats: 24 PTS, 5 REB, 3 AST, 1 BLK, 10-12 FG, 2-2 3PT, 2-2 FT, 27 MIN
Mikal Bridges was ruthlessly efficient, slicing through Atlanta’s defense with ease. Whether attacking closeouts or knocking down jumpers, he made everything look effortless. His shot selection and defensive presence made him one of the most impactful players on the floor.
Jalen Brunson: A
Game Stats: 17 PTS, 2 REB, 8 AST, 2 STL, 6-12 FG, 1-6 3PT, 4-4 FT, 29 MIN
Jalen Brunson orchestrated the offense beautifully, controlling tempo and ensuring everyone got involved. While his three-point shot wasn’t falling, he compensated with playmaking and smart decision-making. He was the steady engine behind New York’s offensive explosion.
Josh Hart: A
Game Stats: 14 PTS, 5 REB, 2 AST, 2 TOV, 6-10 FG, 2-4 3PT, 0-1 FT, 27 MIN
Josh Hart brought his usual blend of energy and efficiency, contributing across the board without forcing anything. He thrived in transition and capitalized on open looks, helping maintain the Knicks’ relentless pace. Another classic “do-it-all” performance.
Mitchell Robinson: B
Game Stats: 6 PTS, 3 REB, 2 BLK, 3-3 FG, 9 MIN
Robinson was perfect from the field and protected the rim effectively. In limited minutes, he made a strong defensive impact and finished everything around the basket.
Ariel Hukporti: B
Game Stats: 3 PTS, 4 REB, 2 TOV, 1 BLK, 3-6 FT, 12 MIN
Hukporti was active on the glass but struggled at the free-throw line and with ball security. A mixed outing overall.
Jordan Clarkson: B
Game Stats: 7 PTS, 1 AST, 2-4 FG, 3-4 FT, 11 MIN
Clarkson provided instant offense off the bench, attacking gaps and scoring efficiently. He helped maintain the scoring pressure when the starters rested.
Landry Shamet: B
Game Stats: 5 PTS, 1 REB, 2-5 FG, 1-3 3PT, 15 MIN
Shamet spaced the floor effectively and knocked down a timely three. His off-ball movement helped keep the defense honest.
Jose Alvarado: B
Game Stats: 3 PTS, 1 REB, 2 AST, 2 STL, 1-2 FG, 1-2 3PT, 7 MIN
Alvarado brought defensive intensity and playmaking in a short burst. His steals helped ignite transition opportunities.
Miles McBride: B
Game Stats: 3 PTS, 1 REB, 2 STL, 1-3 FG, 1-3 3PT, 10 MIN
McBride contributed defensively with multiple steals and added a three-pointer. A solid role-player performance.
Tyler Kolek: B
Game Stats: 6 PTS, 1 REB, 3 AST, 1 TOV, 2-5 FG, 0-2 3PT, 2-2 FT, 12 MIN
Kolek ran the offense well during garbage time, creating opportunities and scoring efficiently enough to keep things rolling.
Mohamed Diawara: B
Game Stats: 2 PTS, 4 REB, 2 AST, 1 TOV, 1 STL, 1-4 FG, 0-2 3PT, 12 MIN
Diawara contributed in multiple areas but struggled with efficiency. Still, his activity level and rebounding added value.
Jeremy Sochan: B
Game Stats: 4 PTS, 1 STL, 2-3 FG, 0-1 3PT, 7 MIN
Sochan provided solid energy in limited minutes, making quick contributions on both ends. He stayed within his role and didn’t try to do too much.
Pacome Dadiet: B
Game Stats: 5 PTS, 1 REB, 2-4 FG, 1-3 3PT, 8 MIN
Dadiet chipped in with efficient scoring off the bench, knocking down a three and keeping the offense flowing during his stint.
