Game two of the Celtics-Hawks first round playoff match up was a big game for both teams- Atlanta trying to build momentum with a two game winning streak, and Boston trying to keep themselves from digging a two game hole to climb out of.  With Rajon Rondo out on suspension and Ray Allen out with a soar ankle, the Celtics knew the game would be an uphill battle.  But Paul Pierce was fully prepared to drag the team up that hill, and did so by dropping 36 points and grabbing 13 rebounds.  He was the Celtics most consistent and reliable scorer throughout the night, followed by Kevin Garnett with 15 points and Avery Bradley with 14 points.

Joe Johnson and Jeff Teague led the Hawks with 22 and 18 points, respectively.  Josh Smith dropped 16, but suffered a knee injury in the 4th quarter and had to leave the game.  His condition is day-to-day, and there is a possibility that he will miss Game 3.  If so, it will be a huge loss for Atlanta becaue with center Al Horford out for the year, Smith is there most viable option in the paint.  When the Hawks play like the young and athletic team that they are is when they have the best chance at beating Boston.  If they can finish on the fast break, out rebound, and run on every play, they are without a doubt a threat to the old and withering Boston Celtics.  But for now, the Celtics carry the momentum with a big Game 2 win going into Friday’s Game 3.