CJ McCollum ignites Hawks' series lead, crediting Jonathan Kuminga's clutch fourth-quarter defense and "championship DNA" after a nail-biting Game Three win.
It's time to start talking about this Atlanta Hawks team chemistry, make-up, and DNA. Atlanta did its thing again on Thursday night to snatch a 2-1 series lead against the New York Knicks.
After fending off a comeback by the Knicks, a game-winner by CJ McCollum gave the Hawks a one-point lead with 12 seconds left in the game. The Hawks then executed a perfect defensive possession on Jalen Brunson, which forced a turnover and the game clock to expire, giving the Hawks a 109-108 victory at State Farm Arena.
It's also hard not to recognize Jonathan Kuminga's efforts off the bench. Kuminga ended up playing 28 minutes and scoring 21 points, but he was crucial in the fourth quarter once again, helping with Atlanta's on-ball defense and spacing the floor.
Following the thrilling game three, CJ McCollum shared some high praise for Kuminga, and the contributions he brings to this Hawks team:
"(He) has championship DNA coming from the Warriors, he understands how to play the game the right way. He was in a not so great situation and now he's found a happy home"
Head coach Quin Snyder also added in some thoughts about Kuminga:
"Jonathan's just been all in...tonight he did some things that really gave our team a lift. I think the biggest thing he's done is he's just defended. Another guy that's in there competing and defending"
Defense has become the mantra for this Hawks team in recent months, and as a Hawks supporter and follower for several years, it's been a revelation, and not one I can say with full confidence that I expected. Adding Kuminga, CJ McCollum, and even Gabe Vincent at the NBA trade deadline were perhaps the most impactful moves made, and it's paying dividends for the Hawks right now, who are two wins away from the Eastern Conference Semifinals.
