Just in case you weren't aware, the Atlanta Hawks and New York Knicks do not like each other. their first-round series has been getting chippy already, with Julius Randle giving a dirty elbow to John Collins and another to Danilo Gallinari in Game 4.
Well, at this point, the Hawks are enjoying the last laugh. They're currently up 3-1 in this series after blowing out the Knicks on Sunday in a 113-96 win at home. Clint Capela meanwhile, had a stern message for New York prior to Wednesday's matchup.
Clint Capela on the Knicks: "They're trying to play tough and push our guys around and talk ****, but we can do that too. We can push guys around too and talk **** as well and get a win too, so what are you going to do about it?"
— Mike Conti (@MikeConti929) June 1, 2021
The Hawks big man really went in:
Clint Capela to the Knicks: "We can be physical, but we can win games as well. And now we're coming to your home to win this game again. And send you on vacation."
— Mike Conti (@MikeConti929) June 1, 2021
Atlanta will be looking to send the Knicks packing while hoping to also silence a jam-packed MSG. Trae Young continues to show out in the playoffs for the Hawks, while Randle has been practically non-existent on the other side after a career season.
Capela clearly has all the trash talk ahead of this important contest and at this point, New York hasn't shown any signs of being able to slow down Young, who continues to score at will and lead the Hawks offense.
Hopefully, the Knicks take these comments to heart and respond in the only way they can: By getting a win. Or else, NY will in fact be going on vacation after such an impressive season.