The NBA playoffs were received with such enthusiasm and the games were so spectacular so far that the event probably did not let anyone down. Except the teams sent home and their fans, of course.
The Western Division already has three of its contestants, as the Los Angeles Lakers, the San Antonio Spurs and the New Orleans Hornets managed to finish their first round series way ahead of schedule. Still battling for the 4th position are the Houston Rockets and Utah Jazz, who leads the series with 3 – 2.
On the other hand, the Eastern Division offers some rough battles. So far, only the Orlando Magic have finished their first round, taking out the Toronto Raptors in 5 games. Detroit Pistons lead the Philadelphia 76ers with 3 – 2, the Cleveland Cavaliers lead the Washington Wizards 3 – 1 and the biggest surprise has to be the series tied at 2 – 2 between the Boston Celtics and the Atlanta Hawks.
Tonight the Hawks will return to Boston for Game Five and will attempt to take the lead of the series. The Celtics are ranked among the top three contestants for the finals, while the Hawks entered the playoffs as a 70-to-1 underdog. Tonight’s game is considered essential and could make the difference for the series’ win.
After their second loss, Celtics coach Doc Rivers stated: "This is a disappointing loss for us. We started the first quarter out terrific, but then we got into foul trouble, and I think that's when the momentum swung in their favor. Give the Hawks credit. I thought they played terrific, and in the fourth quarter, Joe Johnson was terrific. He made some tough shots and put the team on his back," as quoted by Sportsnetwork.
Alongside the Cavaliers hosting the Wizards, the Celtics and the Hawks promise a great night for all sports fans.