Pierce’s last-second jumper lifts Celtics over Knicks in MSG

Pierce's last-second jumper lifts Celtics over Knicks in MSG

Like on many occasions before, the ball was in the hands of Paul Pierce with time winding down -- twelve seconds in regulation. He used a screen by Kevin Garnett and made a step-back jumper over Amar'e Stoudemire with 0.4 seconds left on the clock, sealing the win for the visiting Celtics over the New York Knicks, 118-116. The thrilling game could have been won by the streaking Knicks as Stoudemire nailed a three point shot as time expired, but the referees ruled that the shot was too late. It was the 11th straight win by the Celtics, who were led by Pierce's 32 points. The Knicks came into the game having won their last eight games. Stoudemire scored 39 points, the ninth consecutive game he has topped 30 -- a team record. He has led the resurgence of the once-pitiful Knicks to a respectable 16-10 record so far. "The Knicks have arrived," Pierce said after the game. "They're going to be a force to reckon with in the division."

Kevin Garnett continued his strong play of late to contribute 20 points and 13 rebounds, while Ray Allen chipped in 26 points including a late three that allowed Boston to stay in the game. New York point guard Raymond Felton scored 26 points and dished out 14 assists. Danilo Gallinari notched 20 points and Wilson Chandler scored 18 points and 12 rebounds for the Knicks. The Knicks are one of the hottest teams in the NBA right now, but they could not get it done against the equally-hot Boston squad. They have another big game on Friday when the Miami Heat's Big Three comes to Madison Square Garden to try and extend their own winning streak to 11.

Posted by Andre Monohan on Thursday December 16 2010, 1:01 AM EST. Ref: CNNSI. All trademarks acknowledged. Filed under Featured News. Comments and Trackbacks closed. Follow responses: RSS 2.0