Josh Smith is hitting shots and the Atlanta Hawks are getting into the post. The Hawks are a bit feisty and definitely brought their "A" game.
Smith has six points and Joe Johnson and Marvin Williams four each as the Hawks posted a 23-21 lead over the Boston Celtics through one quarter at Philips Arena.
Paul Pierce posted 10 points and Delonte West five in a game that's turned very physical very quickly.
This one has the look and feel of a playoff game -- a packed house, intensity on both sides of the floor and even a little bit of a skirmish.
Johnson and Pierce got into it a bit with 3:34 left in the first quarter. Joe Johnson fouled Pierce hard in the lane. The Boston forward took exception to the hit and shoved Johnson. Pierce was hit with a technical. Keep an eye on this matchup. These guys have been jawing at each other the rest of the quarter and tempers could flare, especially if the game gets out of hand.
Also getting into it were Jermaine O'Neal and Zaza Pachulia. They had a bit of a shoving match in the final seconds of the frame and were both given technicals.