Full Breakdown
NBA Playoffs: Game 3 Preview for Knicks vs. Hawks, Cavaliers vs. Raptors, and Nuggets vs. Timberwolves
4/24/2026, 2:23:22 AM
Knicks vs. Hawks: A Critical Game 3 Showdown
The New York Knicks and Atlanta Hawks are set to face off in Game 3 of their first-round playoff series on April 23, 2026, at 7 p.m. ET at State Farm Arena in Atlanta. The series is tied 1-1 after the Hawks pulled off a dramatic 107-106 victory in Game 2, overcoming a 12-point deficit in the fourth quarter. CJ McCollum led the Hawks with 32 points, while Jalen Brunson scored 29 for the Knicks. The Knicks, who had a 40-1 record when leading by 12 or more points entering the final period, now face pressure to reclaim momentum.
The Knicks have dominated the boards, out-rebounding the Hawks by 14 across the first two games. However, their late-game execution has come under scrutiny, particularly Coach Mike Brown's lineup decisions. The Knicks must integrate Karl-Anthony Towns more effectively into their offense and maintain defensive pressure on McCollum and the Hawks' perimeter players. The Knicks are slight favorites, with a spread of 1.5 points, reflecting their strong performance throughout the regular season.
Cavaliers vs. Raptors: Toronto's Must-Win Game
The Cleveland Cavaliers will visit the Toronto Raptors for Game 3, also on April 23, at 8 p.m. ET. The Cavaliers lead the series 2-0 after winning both home games by double digits. Donovan Mitchell and James Harden have been pivotal for Cleveland, combining for significant scoring outputs while the Raptors have struggled offensively, particularly Brandon Ingram, who averaged just 12 points in the series.
Toronto's defense, which ranked fifth in the regular season, has been unable to contain the Cavaliers' offensive prowess. The Raptors must improve their ball security and capitalize on fast-break opportunities to have a chance at evening the series. The Cavaliers are favored by 3.5 points, reflecting their dominance thus far.
Timberwolves vs. Nuggets: A Battle for Control
In the Western Conference, the Minnesota Timberwolves will host the Denver Nuggets for Game 3 at 9:30 p.m. ET. The series is tied 1-1 after the Timberwolves rallied from a 19-point deficit to win Game 2, showcasing their resilience. Anthony Edwards has been a standout performer, scoring 30 points in the last game, while the Nuggets will look to bounce back after their loss.
Both teams have faced injury concerns, with the Nuggets listing Aaron Gordon as probable and the Timberwolves managing Edwards' knee issue. The Nuggets are favored by 2.5 points, but the Timberwolves' home-court advantage could play a crucial role in determining the outcome.
Conclusion: Key Matchups and Predictions
As the playoffs progress, each game becomes increasingly critical. The Knicks must address their late-game execution to avoid falling behind in their series, while the Raptors need to find a way to stop the Cavaliers' offensive onslaught. The Timberwolves aim to leverage their home advantage against the Nuggets, who are looking to regain control of the series. Each matchup promises to be a thrilling contest, with significant implications for the teams involved.
