Atlantic Notes: Martin, Knicks, Celtics, Sixers

The Nets-Bulls series was panned as one of the less exciting first round matchups this year through the first three games, but that all changed with a triple overtime thriller in game four.  After a grueling back-and-forth that saw Nate Robinson and Joe Johnson come up in the clutch for their teams, the Bulls ultimately wound up on top with a 142-134 victory.  Here's a look at the latest out of the Atlantic as the Nets are now charged with winning three straight to extend their season..

  • Knicks forward Kenyon Martin told Jackie MacMullan of ESPNBoston.com last month that he was "real close" to signing with the Celtics earlier this season.  He characterized the negotiations differently this week when he spoke to reporters, including Frank Isola of the New York Daily News.  "I didn't come close at all," he said. "They didn't offer me anything, so it wasn't close. I didn't talk to them per se; my agent did. It didn't happen, so it doesn't matter at this point."
  • As they appear to be on the verge of getting swept by the Knicks, this is likely the end of the Celtics as we know them, writes Sean Deveney of the Sporting News.  Deveney also suggests that Danny Ainge should have been more open to welcoming either Chris Andersen or Kenyon Martin to the Celtics’ fold when both were free agents to enhance their frontcourt depth.  
  • Tom Moore of Calkins Media could see the Sixers' coaching search coming down to Mike Malone and Sixers associate head coach Michael Curry.  Philly hopes to land a solid prospect with their No. 11 pick as well and Moore believes that Victor Oladipo would be a strong choice if he falls that far.
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