Pierce Makes Sure the Celtics Stay Hot

The Boston Celtics got their shots to start falling in the third quarter and their defense on track in the fourth.

Paul Pierce scored 18 of his 27 points after halftime and Eric Williams had a season-high 21 points, and the Celtics won for the sixth time in seven games, beating the Orlando Magic, 102-97, Monday night at Orlando, Fla.

“It’s a huge win,” said Pierce, who also had 10 rebounds and eight assists. “Coming in here against a quality team -- the Magic have been playing really well lately -- to get a win on [the second game of] a back to back, this is one of our biggest wins of the season.”

Orlando’s Tracy McGrady, his first step slowed after turning an ankle early, scored 25 points. Grant Hill had 22 points and a season-high 13 rebounds.

Dallas 113, Toronto 102 -- Steve Nash scored seven of his 25 points during a key fourth-quarter run, and the Mavericks extended their home winning streak to nine games.

Dirk Nowitzki had 23 points for the Mavericks, who improved their league-best record to 16-1.

Alvin Williams scored 27 points for the Raptors, who lost for the seventh time in nine games.

New York 125, Cleveland 93 -- Allan Houston scored 29 points at New York and the Knicks dealt the Cavaliers their 15th consecutive loss.

Dajuan Wagner had 25 points and 10 assists for the Cavaliers, who are closing in on the longest losing streak in franchise history -- 19 games in 1981-82.

Utah 102, Indiana 91 -- John Stockton had 22 points and 10 assists, and Karl Malone had 21 points, and the Jazz held Reggie Miller scoreless at Salt Lake City.

Miller, who played his fifth game since returning from an ankle bruise, did not score in a game for the first time since 1989.

The Jazz won for the seventh time in eight games and ended Indiana’s four-game winning streak.

Miami 100, Phoenix 90 -- Travis Best made a tying layup with 37 seconds left in regulation and three baskets in overtime to lead the Heat at Phoenix.

After missing his first nine shots, Best made five in row. He finished with 16 points.