New York Knicks: 3 goals heading into Game 2 against the Atlanta Hawks

The excitement heading into the New York Knicks’ first playoff game in eight years was extraordinary. And when the game started, the hype continued as the crowd roared. However, the fans didn’t get what they’ve desired for so long: a playoff win.

The Atlanta Hawks downed the Knicks 107-105 after Trae Young iced the game with his game-winning floater with 0.9 seconds remaining. It was his 32nd point to go along with his 10 assists and seven rebounds.

Young etched himself in the history books with his impressive first playoff game. He is one of four players to tally at least 30 points and 10 assists in their playoff debut. The other three are Derrick Rose, Chris Paul and LeBron James.

The New York Knicks lost Game 1 to the Atlanta Hawks 107-105. In Game 2, the Knicks should focus on three things to maximize their chances of winning.

As expected, the Hawks will be running their offense through Young. A similar attack would be likely for Game 2. However, the Knicks will need to adjust or they’ll risk going down two games heading into Game 3 and 4 in Atlanta.

Players such as Julius Randle will need to step up and the Knicks have to hope that Alec Burks continues a similar level of production.

On the brightside, the Knicks did well defensively for the most part. They allowed 107 points — which, yes, is above their opponents points per game average but is also lower than the Hawks’ PPG.

Game 1 was filled with a number of positives and negatives despite New York coming out on the losing end. So, with Game 2 approaching, here are three goals for the Knicks to implement in order to come out victorious.