Knicks shrug off unexpected first-round date with Hawks
SLUG: knicks-unfazed-by-hawks-playoff-matchup
NEW YORK — The Knicks insist they are not rattled by the revelation that they will face the Atlanta Hawks in the opening round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs.
The pairing became official on Sunday, April 12, 2026, when the regular-season standings locked in. Team members later told reporters that they “didn’t pay any attention” to potential opponents while the playoff picture was still unsettled.
New York enters the series with home-court advantage, while Atlanta travels north for Game 1 at Madison Square Garden on a date to be confirmed by the league.
The Knicks reiterated that their preparation and focus will remain unchanged, regardless of who lines up on the opposite sideline.
Source: New York Post
