The New York Knicks are gearing up for Game 3 of their first-round playoff series against the Atlanta Hawks, focusing on improving their defense in the paint. In Game 2, the Knicks allowed 42 points in the paint during the second half, contributing to a 107-106 loss at Madison Square Garden. Head coach Mike Brown noted that this was the most paint points allowed by the Knicks in a half all season. He emphasized the need for greater physicality and attention to detail in their defense. The Knicks, featuring 7-foot centers Karl-Anthony Towns and Mitchell Robinson, have a size advantage over the Hawks, whose tallest starter is 6-foot-10 Onyeka Okongwu. The Hawks are also without their second big man, 6-foot-11 Jock Landale, due to a high ankle sprain. Knicks guard Josh Hart acknowledged the need to maintain physicality to dictate the pace of the game. Despite leading by as many as 14 points in the second half, the Knicks faltered down the stretch, allowing the Hawks to rally for the win. Both Brown and the players remain confident they can learn from this loss and improve in Game 3.