Hawks, Raptors, and Timberwolves Earn Crucial Game 3 Wins in 2026 NBA Playoffs

On Thursday, April 24, 2026, three lower-seeded teams secured vital victories in the 2026 NBA Playoffs, shifting momentum in their respective series. The Atlanta Hawks, Toronto Raptors, and Minnesota Timberwolves each won Game 3 on the road, taking 2-1 series leads over higher-seeded opponents.

Hawks Edge Knicks in Thrilling Finish

The Atlanta Hawks defeated the New York Knicks to accept a 2-1 lead in their Eastern Conference first-round series. CJ McCollum delivered a clutch performance with 23 points, five rebounds, two steals, and two blocks. Jalen Johnson contributed 24 points, 10 rebounds, eight assists, two steals, and one block, while Jonathan Kuminga added 21 points, four rebounds, one steal, and one block. The Hawks’ balanced attack and defensive intensity proved too much for New York, who now face elimination pressure heading into Game 4.

Raptors Dominate Cavaliers to Avoid 3-0 Deficit

In Toronto, the Raptors handed the Cleveland Cavaliers a 126-104 loss to avoid falling behind 3-0 in their series. Scottie Barnes led Toronto with 33 points and 11 assists, showcasing his all-around impact. RJ Barrett matched Barnes with a postseason career-high 33 points, including six three-pointers, as Toronto shot an impressive 61% from beyond the arc (14-of-23). Jamison Battle provided a spark off the bench, scoring all 14 of his points in the fourth quarter on perfect shooting (5-of-5 FG, 4-of-3PT). The Raptors’ offensive efficiency and timely scoring burst kept Cleveland at bay and reinvigorated their playoff hopes.

Timberwolves Outmuscle Nuggets at Home

The Minnesota Timberwolves used their home-court advantage to defeat the Denver Nuggets 117-100, taking a 2-1 series lead. Jaden McDaniels recorded a double-double with 20 points and 10 rebounds, while Ayo Dosunmu contributed 25 points and nine assists. Together, they shot 19-for-28 from the field and helped Minnesota dominate in the paint (68-34) and on the fast break (21-7). The Timberwolves’ interior presence and transition game overwhelmed Denver, who now must win two straight games to avoid an upset.

Key Takeaways from Thursday’s Action

• All three lower-seeded teams won on the road, seizing 2-1 series leads.
• Scottie Barnes and RJ Barrett each scored 33 points for the Raptors in their victory over Cleveland.
• The Hawks relied on balanced scoring and defensive versatility to defeat the Knicks.
• Minnesota’s dominance in the paint and fast-break points proved decisive against Denver.
• Three-point shooting was a major factor, with Toronto hitting 61% of their attempts.

What’s Next?

With the series now tied at 2-1 in each matchup, Game 4 becomes critical for the higher-seeded teams looking to avoid falling into a 3-1 hole. The Knicks, Cavaliers, and Nuggets will look to protect home court and extend their seasons, while the Hawks, Raptors, and Timberwolves aim to close out the series on the road. As the 2026 NBA Playoffs continue, the resilience of lower-seeded teams has emerged as a defining theme.