In a gripping NBA playoff matchup, CJ McCollum (formerly of the Portland Trail Blazers) emerged as the hero for the Atlanta Hawks, scoring 32 points to secure a 107-106 victory against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. The game was marked by a late surge from the Hawks, overcoming a precarious situation after McCollum missed two crucial free throws with just 5.6 seconds remaining. The Knicks had a chance to win but Mikal Bridges failed to convert a jumper as time expired. Jonathan Kuminga added 19 points off the bench, while Jalen Johnson contributed 17 points, including a vital basket in the closing moments. For New York, Jalen Brunson led with 29 points, supported by Karl-Anthony Towns' 18 points. In another Eastern Conference matchup, the Cleveland Cavaliers took a firm grip on their series against the Toronto Raptors, winning 115-105. Donovan Mitchell shone with 30 points, while James Harden added 28 points and made significant defensive contributions with five steals. Evan Mobley also impressed with 25 points on an efficient 11-of-13 shooting night. The Raptors' Scottie Barnes scored a playoff career-high 26 points, but it wasn't enough to prevent the Cavaliers from taking a 2-0 series lead. The Knicks will head to Atlanta for Game 3, while the Raptors must regroup as they face a daunting deficit against the Cavaliers.