Knicks Preview: 5 Keys to Defeating Atlanta Hawks

Oct 17, 2015; Charlotte, NC, USA; New York Knicks forward Derrick Williams (23) smiles after a play during the second half against the Charlotte Hornets at Time Warner Cable Arena. The Hornets defeated the Knicks 97-93. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports

3. The Second Unit

The New York Knicks stunned the Milwaukee Bucks on their home floor. At the heart of the annihilation was a second unit that attacked and defended without fear.

New York will need something of a repeat performance against the Hawks.

Of New York’s 122 points scored against the Bucks, 73 were posted by bench players. That was more than the total accumulated by both starting lineups, which is a telling sign.

The Knicks don’t necessarily need 73 bench points against Atlanta, but they’ll need the same players to shine.

The group of Langston Galloway, Jerian Grant, Kyle O’Quinn and Derrick Williams must continue to be efficiently productive. All four can defend multiple positions, and each contributed well offensively.

Even if the shots don’t fall, Galloway and Grant’s playmaking, and O’Quinn and Williams’ offensive rebounding would help New York exponentially against Atlanta.

Next: The Star of the Show