Some of the highlights:
Said Stan Van Gundy, the dazzled Magic coach: “We already know the Hawks are quick and athletic, but they got after it tonight. They played way too hard for us.”
Said the Hall of Famer Dominique Wilkins, shaking Pachulia’s hand: “That’s the way to come to work, big fella.”
Pachulia had eight points and eight rebounds in 11 1/2 minutes, and his presence helped force the splendid to work overly hard for his 22 and 15. Asked if the rush from the Boston series had indeed transformed him, Zaza said, “Yes, it did. That was a big experience for me. It was my first time in the playoffs, and we were playing a great team —- the future world champions. I learned a lot of things from that. I have a better idea what it takes.”
Cautious optimism, but the excitement is starting to build.
