CJ McCollum takes issue with Jalen Brunsons…
CJ McCollum delivered a low blow to Jalen Brunson on the court at Madison Square Garden. He then delivered another one after the sport.
During the second quarter of the Knicks’ 113-102 Game 1 win over the Hawks on Saturday evening, McCollum was given a technical for kicking Brunson proper in the midsection while taking a bounce shot (he was also called for a journey on the play). Brunson stayed down on the ground in pain for a few moments.
McCollum accused Brunson of milking it.
“I shot a jumper, and Jalen thought we were at a Broadway show,” McCollum said. “He acted it out until they reviewed it. It’s a normal jump shot. Nothing there. Unnecessary, and I look forward to getting my $2,500 [fine] back.”
Jalen Brunson reacts in pain after getting kicked in the groin on a shot by CJ McCollum during the third quarter of the Knicks’ 113-102 Game 1 win over the Hawks on April 18, 2026 at the Garden. Jason Szenes / New York Post
CJ McCollum kicked Jalen Brunson proper in the midsection 😬McCollum acquired a technical foul following the review.Good or unhealthy call? 🤔pic.twitter.com/YPKvb2pxsG— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) April 18, 2026
There was clear contact from McCollum, who kicked out a bit as he took his shot, on Brunson. And Brunson appeared to be in professional pain.
For his own half, Brunson didn’t make a lot of the play.
CJ McCollum hits Jalen Brunson in the groin as he places up a shot a kicks during the third quarter of the Knicks’ Game 1 win over the Hawks at the Garden. Jason Szenes / New York Post
“It wasn’t purposeful,” Brunson said, “so we move forward.”
McCollum was truly the Hawk who most harm the Knicks, ending with 26 factors.
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