Anderson-Less Celtics Lose

Darrell Armstrong matched a career high with 28 points and Penny Hardaway led a decisive run Monday night that carried the Orlando Magic to a 106-99 victory over the Boston Celtics at Orlando, Fla.

The Celtics played without starting point guard Kenny Anderson, who was left behind in Boston in what was described as a personal decision by Coach Rick Pitino.

“I left him to think about something, and I wanted him to reflect on something that he did. It’s not a big deal. I like Kenny an awful lot,” Pitino said.

Armstrong, starting for the third consecutive game in place of the injured Nick Anderson, scored 19 points in the second quarter.

Minnesota 100, Dallas 93--Despite adding starting point guard Terrell Brandon to a growing injured list, the Timberwolves hung on at Minneapolis.

Kevin Garnett and Sam Mitchell each scored 18 points and Tom Hammonds added 14.

The Timberwolves played most of the second half without Brandon, who suffered a right thigh injury early in the third quarter and did not return.

Indiana 88, Detroit 86--Reggie Miller scored 23 points and Antonio Davis added 17 points and nine rebounds off the bench for the Pacers at Auburn Hills, Mich.

Bison Dele led Detroit with 19 points and nine rebounds, and Grant Hill added 18 points.

San Antonio 93, Golden State 86--Tim Duncan and David Robinson each scored 25 points at San Antonio to lead the Spurs, who have won 17 of their last 19.

Atlanta 77, Charlotte 71--Mookie Blaylock had 13 points and eight assists at Charlotte, N.C., as the Hawks defeated the Hornets for the second consecutive day.