Pierce Propels Celtics Past Magic

Paul Pierce scored 17 of his 24 points in the third quarter to lead the Boston Celtics to their ninth straight victory, 107-88 over the Orlando Magic on Monday night.

Ray Allen added 21 points, and Rajon Rondo had 16 points with 12 assists for the Celtics (17-2).

Rashard Lewis led Orlando (13-5) with 30 points. The Magic had its six-game road winning streak snapped.

Pierce, who had 5 points in the first half, carried Boston from a 2-point halftime edge to a 12-point lead entering the fourth quarter.