Jonathan Kuminga is living proof of the power of consistent opportunity. The Atlanta Hawks didn’t focus on his tensions with Steve Kerr, but rather the talent within the former lottery pick. And it’s been paying off. Kuminga was rolling in Game 3 against the Knicks, scoring 21 points off the bench to help them secure a 2-1 lead in the series. But he’s doing more than just performing. JK has embraced the Hawks culture, earning lofty praise from the team’s veteran, CJ McCollum.

“He’s been awesome. He’s a pro, obviously has championship DNA coming from the Warriors, he understands how to play the game the right way,” said McCollum.

Jonathan Kuminga was roaring after poking the ball away from Jalen Brunson on the final possession. The 23-year-old looks rejuvenated and determined to buy into Atlanta’s culture after years of fighting for a role in Golden State’s rotation. His integrity and work ethic never wavered during that stretch, but what has changed is the trust his teammates now show in him.

“I think to JJ’s point, we were all in the gym last night like this means something to us. When you have guys that live it and love it, I think it’s easy to root for each other. It’s easy to be selfless. It’s easy to empower each other and be happy. He was in a not so great situation, and now he’s found a happy home,” McCollum added.

The pivotal reason comes down to trust. It was confusing for many observers. Despite his elite athleticism and ability to guard “1 through 5,” as Jalen Johnson noted, Golden State focused on his limitations: he wasn’t a consistent shooter.

It’s a completely different situation in Atlanta. Jonathan Kuminga is valued for his full skill set and is now reaping the rewards of that belief. Not only do the Hawks deserve credit for unlocking him, but Kuminga also deserves the praise coming his way.

His resurgence also fits a broader NBA pattern. Players like Lauri Markkanen and Andrew Wiggins saw their careers take off only after finding the right system and role.

Like Kuminga, both players went from being questioned fits to central pieces once given clarity and trust- proof that development in the league is often about environment as much as talent.

He’s become one of the most vital two-way players for the Hawks and is producing on the biggest stage against elite competition.

CJ McCollum breaks the Knicks’ hearts twice

After Trae Young, New York found a new villain. CJ McCollum went scorched earth in Game 2, hitting the game-winner and breaking countless hearts. Tonight marked a 180-degree shift. McCollum was the hero, yet again taking the ball in his hands and handling business to ice the game away.

The Hawks were terrific, showing remarkable poise in overcoming a near fourth-quarter meltdown despite their lack of experience. McCollum was among three 20+ point scorers for Atlanta on the night.

But Atlanta’s win wasn’t just about offense. This team can seriously guard. They have athletic defenders eager to run in transition and attack the rim, forcing opponents into mistakes. The Knicks actually had one fewer turnover than Atlanta, yet the Hawks still scored six more points off those opportunities.

Defensively, the Hawks neutralized everyone not named OG Anunoby, holding New York to just 43% shooting from the field while catching fire from beyond the arc themselves. Miles McBride and Anunoby combined for nine of the Knicks’ 10 triples on the night.

This isn’t a team to be underestimated in the East. CJ McCollum adds poise and calm, surrounded by relentless defenders who thrive in transition. The Hawks are surging and have found a winning formula that’s unlocked the potential of a young, ambitious team.