Celtics handle Atlanta in Game 2, lead series 2-0

Another dominating performance saw the Celtics defeat the Hawks 119-106 in Game 2. With the win, Boston takes a commanding 2-0 series lead. After a slow start to the 1st quarter that saw the C's fall behind 22-11, Boston flipped the script. They managed to outscore Atlanta 17-3 the rest of the quarter to take a 3 point lead to the 2nd period.
Boston was led by Jayson Tatum, who put in 29 points while also pulling down 10 rebounds for his 2nd consecutive double-double. Derrick White had another strong performance, scoring 26 points and recording 7 assists. Derrick has done a great job attacking the Hawks smaller guards so far this series and has found lots of success getting into the paint.

Marcus Smart was all over the place tonight, causing havoc on the defensive end while also recording 14 points and 6 assists. The reigning DPOY made his presence felt. So far through two games, the #1 offense in the East has been stifled by the C's #2 defense. Boston is holding the Hawks to just 102.5 points per game thusfar, after Atlanta averaged 118.4 per game during the regular season.
The Celtics got off to an ideal start in this series, controlling the majority of both games and coming away with two convincing wins. The only causes for concern to this point for me are the health of Jaylen Brown's hand and the Hawks offensive rebounding. 

If I was Joe Mazzulla, I would consider resting Jaylen in Game 4 if Boston can win Game 3 and go up 3-0. Jaylen has played solid the first 2 games, but he has 10 turnovers and has been grabbing at the bandage on his hand continuously, showing evident discomfort. A hypothetical 3-0 lead would give Boston complete control, so why not rest your superstar for the more important games to come down the line.

The only way Atlanta can win a game is if they continue to kill Boston on the boards. While the total rebounding difference tonight was only 5, the Hawks had 19 offensive boards. Most role players tend to play better at home during the playoffs, so if Atlanta gets 15 to 20 extra possessions at home, the Celtics could find themselves in a tiny bit of trouble. Despite these small areas of concern, I'm still sticking with my prediction of Boston in 4. I think that the Celtics will clean up the boards the next couple of games and continue to attack the clear mismatches on the offensive end. Game 3 will be Friday night in Atlanta. Go Celtics!
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Celtics diehard who enjoys basketball, golf, and hanging out with my family