Best Sunday performances in the NBA Playoffs, No. 1: Trae Young
Special consideration: Bogdan Bogdanovic
Another unbelievable playoff debut is featured in the Hawks vs. Knicks. The debut from Atlanta’s Trae Young was by the far the best performance of the day.
Young’s performance in the Hawks game one win over the Knicks included the game-winning basket, a win on the road at Madison Square Garden, an and-one late in the 4th when the Hawks were down two to give the Hawks a one-point lead, 100 percent from the free-throw line (9-9), and 32 points, 10 assists, and seven rebounds.
Young lived in the lane, his patented floater was very effective but what was surprising to me was the lack of 3-point attempts from Young. Young, who’s constantly compared to Steph Curry as far as style of play and frame, is known for having the ball in his hands and having unbelievable 3-point range. And for Trae to only attempt three 3-point field goals and still score 32 points is shocking. I felt that it was a real testament to Young and his game. He’s shown us he’s more of a complete player than we thought.
If Trae averages these types of numbers without the having an impact from the 3-point line, I think the Knicks are in trouble. New York will have to make a lot of adjustments to try and slow Young down.