The Celtics gave the Nets a tougher than expected game in the opener of their playoff series.

Apparently, they got Brooklyn's attention because game 2 was a no contest.

James Harden and the other members of the big three had plenty of help in the person of Joe Harris who scored 16 points in the first quarter as Brooklyn jumped out to a 40-26 lead.

Harris also getting it done on defense with a couple of steals, and he finished with 25 points, 26 for Kevin Durant, 20 for Harden.

Nets led by as many as 33 points. They won 130-108 and now lead the series 2-0 with game 3 on Friday.

Although they're down one game to nothing in their series with the Hawks, the Knicks are in the playoffs, first and foremost, because of the play of Julius Randle.

That play was rewarded on Tuesday as Randle was named the NBA's most improved player. He was treated to special treat as his 4-year-old son Kyden surprised him with the trophy after practice.

This season, Randle became the sixth player in NBA history to average 24 points, 10 rebounds and six assists. He joins Oscar Robertson, Wilt Chamberlain, Larry Bird, Russell Westbrook and Nikola Jokic.

Knicks and Hawks meet for game 2 Wednesday night at Madison Square Garden.