BOSTON — With 6:27 remaining in just the second quarter of Game 1 of the playoffs, Al Horford couldn’t hide his emotions.
The Celtics were up 22, and the Hawks earned second- and third-chance opportunities. But Horford wouldn’t allow there to be a fourth. The big man corralled a rebound over Atlanta’s Onyeka Okongwu, drew a foul and then continued dribbling down the court. He took two dribbles before taking a few skips, clenching his right fist and letting out a few screams before slapping the ball.
It was a rare display of emotion for Horford, the 36-year-old steady, mild-mannered veteran who picks his spots to do so. Even though it was only Game 1 of the first round, it was the strong opening statement he and the Celtics were looking for as they restart their pursuit of a championship that they came so close to claiming a year ago.
