Watch: Robert Williams swallows up Jalen Johnson's shot
The Atlanta Hawks averaged more than 60 points in first halves this year. Thanks to the Boston Celtics' stifling defense, they were held to 44 in Game 1.
The Hawks shot 33.3 percent from the floor and just 1-of-16 from three-point range in the first half, while Trae Young turned the ball over four times. Their only real offensive success came from going to the rim, and even then, they had to meet Robert Williams.
Williams blocked Jalen Johnson so completely, he was able to snatch the shot out of the air. Not to be outdone, teammate Derrick White blocked two shots, showing the defensive form that saw him rack up more blocks than any other guard this season. The two also hooked up to dominate the rim on the offense end as well.
Williams shot 5-of-5, while White outscored Young 16-12 in the first half, as Boston finished the first half up a whopping 30 points. Young struggled mightily against Boston's backcourt trio of White, Malcom Brogdon and reigning Defensive Player of the Year Marcus Smart. Young was 3-of-11 with as many turnovers as assists, doing his only real damage by getting to the free-throw line, where he was 5-of-6.
Meanwhile, all five of Boston's starters made as many three-pointers as the entire Hawks team, with Tatum leading the way.
It's only 24 minutes of basketball, but Hawks coach Quin Snyder needs to make some serious adjustments, and fast. Or the Celtics are going to send the Hawks out of the playoffs like Williams rejecting a soft floater in the lane.
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