C.J. McCollum's Reflection on Knicks' Resilience

Atlanta Hawks guard C.J. McCollum has expressed his admiration for the turnaround exhibited by the New York Knicks during their current playoff run. After a tough battle that saw them trailing 2-1 in their first-round series against the Hawks, McCollum hit a game-winning shot in Game 3, propelling his team towards victory. This pivotal moment seemed to act as a catalyst for the Knicks, who haven't looked back since.

Knicks’ Postseason Surge

Following the loss that put them in a precarious position, the Knicks rallied to win a staggering 13 consecutive playoff games. This remarkable feat began with their victory over the Hawks, whom they defeated in the first round. The Knicks' victory not only showcased their determination but also displayed an impressive array of talent on their roster.

From the first round against the Hawks, the Knicks swiftly moved on to dominate the Philadelphia 76ers in the second round, sweeping them decisively. They followed this by overcoming the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference finals, once again achieving a clean sweep, demonstrating their increasingly dominant form.

NBA Finals: Knicks vs. Spurs

As the Knicks entered the NBA Finals facing the San Antonio Spurs, expectations were high. The series opened with two wins for the Knicks, both of which required resilience as they overcame double-digit deficits during the games. In a thrilling Game 2, Jalen Brunson made a critical contribution by securing a last-minute steal and sinking a crucial free throw, sealing the game for the Knicks at a nail-biting final score of 105-104.

Record-Breaking Streak

The Knicks' current playoff win streak stands at 13 games, making it the second-longest in NBA history, just behind the 2017 Golden State Warriors. This impressive achievement underscores the team's momentum and determination to claim the championship title. With Game 3 of the 2026 NBA Finals approaching, the stakes have never been higher for the Knicks as they seek to extend their win streak to 14 games.

Looking Ahead: Game 3 at Madison Square Garden

The 2026 NBA Finals will now swing back to New York, where the Knicks will host their next game at Madison Square Garden. They currently hold a two-game advantage over the Spurs, positioning themselves on the brink of a possible championship. With Game 3 scheduled for Monday night at 8:30 p.m. ET, the anticipation is palpable among Knicks fans and sports enthusiasts alike.

The Path to the Title

For the Knicks to solidify their championship aspirations, they will need to maintain their focus and composure. The road has been paved with hard-fought victories, and the players have shown remarkable resilience throughout the postseason. With each game, their confidence and chemistry continue to grow, proving that they are not just participants but formidable contenders in the quest for the NBA title.

As C.J. McCollum noted, the Knicks have been a transformed team since that critical Game 3 moment against the Hawks. With the support of their passionate fan base, they are ready to embark on the next chapter of their playoff journey, aspiring to bring home a championship banner to New York.