The Knicks hosted the Hawks at home. In the first quarter, the Hawks took the lead with an 18-8 dream start, while the Knicks' Brunson teamed up with McBride to rain down three-pointers, and with Shamet scoring two points, the Knicks trailed by only one point at the end of the first quarter; in the second quarter, Bridges continued to score to lead the team to overtake, the Hawks relied on Trey Young to respond with consecutive shots and assists, both sides fought to a 50-all tie, and at the critical moment, Young took eight points in a row, giving the Hawks an eight-point halftime lead; in the third quarter, the Knicks opened fire, relying on a shooting percentage of over 60%, they scored 40 points in a single quarter, and at the end of the third quarter, the Knicks led the Hawks 94-89. In the final quarter, the Knicks further increased their offensive and defensive intensity, not giving the Hawks another chance to close the gap. In the end, the Knicks defeated the Hawks 119-110.
Although the Hawks lost to the Knicks, their starting center Okongwu played outstandingly, shooting 7 of 10 for 14 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals, with a plus-minus rating of +8, the highest on the team.
It is worth noting that Okongwu's performance in the previous three games as a substitute was also impressive. In the upset victory against the Celtics, Okongwu's crucial block and rebound sealed the win, scoring 19 points and 13 rebounds. In the victory against the Bulls, Okongwu contributed 14 points, 13 rebounds, and 7 assists. In the win against the Suns, Okongwu grabbed a double-double with 22 points and 21 rebounds. According to American data experts, Okongwu is the first Hawks player since Moses Malone in 1991 to achieve this feat of consecutive double-doubles off the bench.
With Okongwu's rise, Capela's position has become even more awkward. Capela was never highly regarded by the Hawks, and in the five years he has been with the team, there has been no targeted tactics. After giving up his starting position to the young Okongwu, he will gradually become a marginal player.
In fact, Capela's form has not declined much. It's just that the Hawks don't let him participate in too many tactics. His awareness from his time with the Rockets is still there, and many times when he cuts down to the restricted area, no one feeds him the ball, leaving him to run back and forth. Even so, Capela is still averaging 9.4 points, 9 rebounds, and 1.2 assists this season.
For just a second-round pick, the Clippers should help him out.
Previously, according to American media reports, the Clippers are interested in trading for Capela from the Hawks with Tucker, Mann, and a swap right for a second-round draft pick from the Jazz in 2030. Capela will have the opportunity to reunite with Harden and revive his "Binghuang" glory.
The Hawks have been actively trying to trade Capela since last season, and they are willing to part with this former "Bingwang" for just a second-round pick.
Capela and Harden have had a smooth collaboration in the past, and there is no need to worry about their chemistry. His arrival also provides a double insurance for Zubac. If the Clippers want to go further this season, they should join in the fun and complete the trade.