Paul Pierce, Celts even series with Hawks; Josh Smith injured

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Story Josh Smith's injury in Atlanta's Game 2 loss could be the latest in a string of dings affecting the 2012 postseason, John Hollinger writes. Dime Pierce battled through another tough shooting night to score 36 points, and the Celtics wiped out

Now Josh Smith is hurt. As if that really matters for the Heat. As if Smith standing in the was any potential roadblock. But his leaving Atlanta's game with a sprained knee Tuesday night underlines what's going on to the Heat's competition in the East.

Led by Josh Smith, Atlanta raced to a 23-point lead in the opening quarter on the way to a 106-89 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday night, ensuring the Hawks will open the playoffs at home. "We showed a lot of determination," Joe Johnson