The Atlanta Hawks’ starting lineup entered the week with the worst plus-minus of any five-man unit in the 2026 NBA playoffs, despite ranking near the top during the regular season. Yet the Hawks head into Tuesday’s pivotal Game 5 against the New York Knicks tied at 2-2, having already stolen two wins on the road.
One of the biggest reasons for Atlanta’s resilience has been the play of Jonathan Kuminga off the bench. Acquired at the trade deadline from Golden State, the 23-year-old forward has been a physical force in transition, punishing the Knicks for any slowdown getting back on defense. He’s also been highly effective rolling to the rim off ball screens and attacking mismatches with strength and aggression.
Kuminga’s impact shows clearly in the numbers. In Atlanta’s two victories, he’s scored 40 points on 62% shooting while the Hawks have outscored opponents by 13 points in his minutes. In the two losses, he’s managed just 18 points on 35% shooting with the Hawks getting outscored by 14 in his time on the floor.
Hawks head coach Quin Snyder has praised Kuminga’s all-around effort, noting his defensive physicality, rebounding, and ability to guard bigger players like Karl-Anthony Towns while still switching onto guards. “Jonathan’s just been all-in,” Snyder said. “He’s embraced whatever role is needed on a given night.”
The former lottery pick brings valuable shot creation and rim pressure, especially valuable with Atlanta’s rotation stretching only about six-and-a-half deep. His willingness to sprint the floor, battle on the glass, set screens, and stay engaged defensively has given the Hawks a much-needed spark.
With the series returning to Madison Square Garden for Game 5, the Hawks will need Kuminga to bring that same energy from the jump. If he can match the Knicks’ physicality and provide consistent scoring punch, Atlanta — already proven capable of winning in New York — has a real chance to steal another game and take control of the series.
Kuminga’s playoff growth could be one of the biggest storylines as this first-round matchup intensifies. The Hawks are counting on him to help shift the momentum back in their favor.