Celtics goes back to .500 without Rondo, Allen and O’neal

BOSTON, MA — Paul Pierce recorded a triple double for the first time this season to avenge their loss against the Indiana Pacers the last time they met. Celtics won 94-87.

The Celtics are still playing without the important services of their assist leader Rajon Rondo, their shooting ace Ray Allen and their veteran Center Jermaine O’neal who are unable to play because of their injuries.

Pierce led Boston with 28 points, 10 rebounds and 8 assists, he exploded in the third quarter when he saw the opponent taking over the lead, he scored 17 points in that quarter alone.

“”It’s a huge win, especially after the back to back. I’m proud with the way stepped up tonight and really got the job done. The win last night probably wouldn’t have meant as much if we didn’t get the win today,” said Pierce.

Chris Wilcox scored 14 points off the bench for 6 of 8 shooting. Kevin Garnett and Mickael Pietrus each scored 13 points.Brandon Bass added 10 points.

“Give credit to Doc Rivers to continue to show that he is one of the best coaches in the NBA. He continues to remake his team’s identity in light of all the injuries they have. Hats off to Paul Pierce, he turned back the clock, obviously playing like one of the best players in the league again, carrying the load for them. They deserved to win tonight,” said Indiana coach Frank Vogel.

Danny Granger had 21 points for the Pacers but his field goal percentage was so bad shooting 7 of 16 in the field. George Hill also did not show his shooting abilities as he missed 7 of 8 of his attemps and only scoring four points.

Paul George had 16 while David West and Roy Hibbert combined for 25 points and 15 rebounds. They made good run in the third but they came up short when Pierce took over.

The Pacers will be facing the Orlando Majic while the Celtics will try to go 10-9 against the Cleveland Cavaliers this Sunday.

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Posted by Johndel Kaye Patrick Callora on Jan 28 2012. Filed under Basketball. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. Both comments and pings are currently closed.