The NBA announced early Monday that Boston Celtics guard Rajon Rondo would be suspended for Game 2 following his chest bump of an official in the series-opener.
Later in the day, reporters got to find out what the players thought of the suspension and what it means for Game 2.
Celtics point guard Keyon Dooling likely will see more playing time in Rondo's absence. Dooling told the Atlanta Journal Constitution that everyone on the Celtics would have to step up.
"I think it's obvious. He's a double-double. He led the league in assists. Obviously for our shooting bigs, he gets them open looks. For our shooters from the wing spots, he gets them open looks. Not having him in there, we have to rely more on (Paul Pierce's) scoring and (Kevin Garnett's) post-ups. We're just going to have to do some of the little things to make up for not having Rondo."
Atlanta head coach Larry Drew spoke before the suspension was handed down, but wanted to make sure his team does not suffer a letdown if Rondo was not going to play.
"They are a veteran ballclub. They've been in those situations where they've had players out. … Like I told our guys, this is the playoffs, and there are things that happen throughout the course of the playoffs that can change things. But you can't at any time relax or let your guard down. You have to be a team on a mission."
Game 2 is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday in Atlanta.
For more on the Hawks-Celtics playoff series check out Peachtree Hoops andCelticsBlog. For more news and notes regarding the NBA Playoffs head over to SB Nation's NBA Basketball page.