ATLANTA -- Talk about a tough playoff opener for the Boston Celtics.

One game, possibly two big losses.

There was the score, of course, which went in

favor of Atlanta. With Josh Smith scoring 22 points and grabbing 18 rebounds, the Hawks built a big lead early and held on for an 83-74 victory in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference playoffs Sunday night.

But what happened in the hectic final minute could have a huge impact on Game 2, and possibly the entire series.

Boston star Rajon Rondo objected to a foul call on one of his teammates, chest-bumped the official who made it, and was quickly sent to the locker room. Now, all the Celtics can do is nervously await the likely wrath of NBA Commissioner David Stern, who's never been too lenient on anyone striking his refs.

"I didn't intentionally chest-bump him, but that's what it appears to be," Rondo conceded.

The Hawks, who led by as many as 19 in the first half, were clinging to a four-point lead when Rondo lost his cool with 41 seconds remaining. Boston's Brandon Bass was called for a foul on Smith tussling for a loose ball, with both players sprawled on the court out beyond the foul line. Rondo screamed at official Marc Davis, who called a technical. Rondo then bumped Davis with his chest and was ejected without hesitation.

"It's out of my control," said Rondo, who up to that point had been a huge bright spot for the Celtics with 20 points and 11 assists. "Obviously, I want to be there for my teammates, but other than that, it's out of my control."

Lobbying for leniency, Celtics coach Doc Rivers said he doesn't think Rondo deserves a suspension.