Well, we’re officially done with what had to be one of the most exciting first rounds in recent memory.

And while we all realize the importance of seeding and home court, it couldn’t have been more valuable in securing victories for the Celtics and Hawks in their respective game sevens.

The Celtics ousted the Bulls on Saturday in Boston, 109-99.  As always, the home court seems to bring out the best in role players and bench players.  Eddie House was a perfect 5-for-5 from the field, including 4-for-4 from 3-point land for 16 points.  Brian Scalabrine contributed 8 points, and Glen Davis and Kendrick Perkins continued their improved play to spark the C’s to victory.  In the end game, the more experienced team was playing at home with two All-Stars on their roster.  It would have been EXTREMELY difficult for Chicago to upend Boston given this scenario.

Moving on to Phillips Arena on Sunday, Atlanta flew past Miami by the final score of 91-78.  Joe Johnson and Josh Smith were the main culprits, but the Hawks also had key contributions from Flip Murray and Mike Bibby.  In the end, D-Wade just didn’t have quite enough help for the Heat to pull out this series. 

The Hawks are a dangerous team at home (as we saw in last year’s first round series against the Celtics)…capable of running good teams out of their building.  Atlanta defended Miami very well – they make things tough for Wade (10-25 shooting), while simultaneously limiting open looks for Miami’s shooters (4-19 from 3-point land, including 2-9 from D-Wade).  As a bonus, the Hawks went 11-23 from distance.  They also limited their turnovers (9 for the game), which often makes the difference for such a young, developing team.

So, now it’s time for some great second round matchups:

• Houston / Los Angeles
• Dallas / Denver
• Atlanta / Cleveland
• Orlando / Boston

Stay tuned to www.ballornuthin.com for continued insight into these series…

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