Karl-Anthony Towns said the New York Knicks’ 126-97 win over the Atlanta Hawks in Game 5 was built on discipline, physicality and trust. The big man finished with 16 points, 14 rebounds and six assists as New York took a 3-2 lead in the first-round series on Tuesday night at Madison Square Garden.
When asked about Atlanta’s defensive adjustments, Towns said the Knicks were ready for whatever came their way. “Everyone’s going to make adjustments, just like we are as a team. So just being prepared for whatever the defense throws at us and being able to react accordingly.”
Towns has now posted 16 assists across the last two games, and he said his passing has always been part of his game. “I feel like passing has been my thing since I came into the league,” he said. “I know sometimes the scoring gets more noticed than the passing, but I’m glad that I’m able to have the opportunity to show what I can do passing wise.”
That playmaking has helped New York’s offense function more cleanly in the series. “It gives us life and gives energy to the basketball and I think it translates to our defense, getting a good possession like that with the ball movement,” Towns said.
The star also said the Knicks’ perimeter attack against Atlanta’s coverage helped open the floor. “We have to continue to stay disciplined. Continue to make the right play regardless if it’s the scoring play or the hockey assist and just continue to do whatever my teammates and this team needs for me to win.”
Towns praised Jalen Brunson after the guard poured in 39 points, including 17 in the fourth quarter. “He’s one of the best point guards and players in the NBA,” Towns said. “I don’t know if I was the reason for that, but if I watch the tape, hopefully I can come back tomorrow when we watch film and say I helped him be who he’s always been.”
Asked about the chance to close the series in Atlanta, Towns tied the moment to preparation rather than urgency. “Confidence is built in the work,” he said. “We got to be super disciplined. We got to execute at the highest level that we have in this series, and we got to be ready for a really tough game.”
Towns also framed his impact in broader terms. “I’m always just thinking about impact and winning,” he said. “How can I help my teammates be the best version of themselves, get the best versions of them with my game, and then do whatever it takes to help our team be in a position to win.”
He said the Knicks have improved by staying connected through the highs and lows. “We trust every single person in that locker room and we’ve just done a great job of staying connected through the good and bad and finding ourselves improving every day.”
As New York heads to Atlanta with a chance to close out the series, Towns said the mindset stays the same. “The toughest game to win is the one that ends someone’s season.”
