The Latest on the Health Front for the Celtics and Hawks for Game 3

The Celtics did what they were supposed to and protected the parquet, taking a 2-0 series lead to Atlanta.

Now, the Hawks get a chance to feed off their home crowd. Playing in the comforts of State Farm Arena could also bring a boost from beyond the arc. Atlanta's converting only 27.3 percent of its 38.5 three-point attempts. That's the second-lowest success rate in the playoffs, per NBA.com.

Conversely, Boston's burying 42.4 percent of its 33 threes on average, the postseason's third-highest conversion rate.

The Hawks also have to play with more poise under pressure and increase their physicality at the defensive end. The Celtics produced 54 points in the paint in their 112-99 victory in Game 1 and 64 in their 119-106 win in Game 2, the latter contest resembling a glorified layup line.

As the defending Eastern Conference champions aim to put as little mileage on their tires as possible before a likely best-of-seven against the Sixers, it helps that Boston's injury report for Game 3 only lists Danilo Gallinari, who hasn't played all season.

Jaylen Brown, who's dealing with a laceration in his right hand, hasn't been on there all series. While the cut in his shooting hand split open during Game 1, his 29 points and 12 rebounds led all participants.

In Game 2, the two-time All-Star registered 18 points, three steals, and two blocks. After the win, Brown provided a progress report on his right hand, saying, "It’s getting better each and every day."

As for Atlanta, the hosts will also be at full strength for Friday's matchup and have no one on the injury report.

Further Reading

Ime Udoka 'Serious Candidate' to Become Head Coach of Celtics' Division Rival

Malcolm Brogdon Discusses Winning Sixth Man of the Year: 'I'm In a Really Good Situation'

[Film Room] Derrick White's Assertiveness Leads to 26 Points, MVP Chants as Celtics Take 2-0 Lead

What the Celtics Say They're Focused on as Series Moves to Atlanta

Celtics Discuss Derrick White Stepping Up in Game 2 Win: 'We Need Him to Continue to Play at this Level'

Here's What Stood Out in Celtics' Win vs. Hawks in Game 2: Swarming Defense and 64 Paint Points Propels Boston to 2-0 Lead

The Celtics Discuss Their Game 1 Win vs. the Hawks: 'We Can't Take Our Foot Off the Gas'

Here's What Stood Out in Celtics' Game 1 Win vs. Hawks: Championship-Caliber Defense Propels Hosts in Series Opener