This actually happened last game. (Getty Images)


Previewing Game 3 between the Atlanta Hawks and Boston Celtics. 

1. Where We're At: Series tied 1-1 headed to Boston. The Celtics robbed the Hawks of all momentum and homecourt advantage, taking down Atlanta when the C's were without Rajon Rondo and Ray Allen. Games 3 and 4 represent an opportunity for Boston to put their foot on Atlanta's throat and make Game 1 seem like a blip.

2. The Big Number: 2nd and 3rd. The Hawks and Celtics take up the second and third worst effective field goal percentages for teams in the playoffs thus far. Basically, there's a whole lot of defense being played in this series and no one can hit an open jumper.

3. Key Adjustment: Paul Pierce destroyed the Hawks in Game 2, and something has to be done about him. Joe Johnson is the Hawks' best perimeter defender, but he's been saving himself for offense. Johnson may want to sacrific some looks on offense to focus on trying to close out Pierce. Take Pierce away from the Celtics' offense, and they're suffocating.

4. The Big Story: Josh Smith is day to day with a knee sprain and may not play. If he doesn't, the Hawks will have to play either Tracy McGrady or Marvin Williams at power forward. And that's not going to end well.

5. The Facts: 7:30 p.m. EST gametime, Josh Smith is day-to-day, Zaza Pachulia is day-to-day, Ray Allen is day-to-day, Al Horford is not expected back. Rajon Rondo returns from a none game suspension.