Knicks Secure Series as Dyson Daniels and Mitchell Robinson Ejected Following Playoff Scuffle

Dyson Daniels and Mitchell Robinson were ejected as the Knicks crushed the Hawks 140,89 to clinch the series. Read the full report on the playoff scuffle.

By: AXL Media

Published: May 1, 2026, 12:32 PM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from BasketNews.

A Historic Playoff Rout Ends in Mid-Court Confrontation

The New York Knicks finalized a dominant first-round series victory over the Atlanta Hawks on Thursday, but the 140,89 blowout was punctuated by a heated physical exchange that saw two players sent to the locker rooms early. With 4:39 remaining in the second quarter, tension boiled over at the free-throw line during a dead-ball situation. The scuffle erupted just as the Knicks were extending their lead to a staggering 50 points, effectively ending any hopes of an Atlanta comeback and signaling the conclusion of their season in front of a frustrated home crowd.

The Physical Catalyst of the Second Quarter Ejections

The altercation began during a routine box-out attempt while Knicks forward OG Anunoby was at the charity stripe. According to officials and replays, Daniels appeared to pull the left arm of Robinson, a gesture that immediately drew a physical response from the New York big man. The two players exchanged blows and had to be separated by teammates and coaching staff. The intensity of the confrontation was so high that a game official was knocked to the floor as players from both benches, including Jalen Brunson and Onyeka Okongwu, rushed in to restrain the combatants.

Coach Brown Addresses the Escalation of Frustration

In the aftermath of the double ejection, New York Knicks head coach Mike Brown noted that the massive scoring margin likely contributed to the thin patience on the court. According to Brown, it is difficult for players to maintain their composure when they feel a physical line has been crossed, especially during a game with such significant emotional stakes. He suggested that when a team is leading by such a large margin, any perceived slight can quickly escalate into a confrontation, as players are already playing with high levels of adrenaline and competitive intensity.