BOSTON, (Reuters) – The Boston Celtics extended their season-high winning streak to 12 games with a 102-90 victory over the Atlanta Hawks on Thursday.
Boston (21-4) overcame the absence of injured starters Rajon Rondo and Shaquille O’Neal with a solid team effort in which six players scored in double digits.
Ray Allen scored 17 of his 18 points in the second half, and Glen Davis also scored 18 for Boston and pulled down 10 rebounds. Kevin Garnett had 17 points and a game-high 14 rebounds, while Paul Pierce had 15 points and 10 assists.
“I knew I was going to have to be more of a playmaker,” said Pierce. “I tried to feel the game out and give it what it need.
“I didn’t feel the need to have a big scoring night based on what the other guys were doing. Guys are going to be asked to play multiple roles with the injuries and that’s what we have to do.”
Marvin Williams scored a game-high 26 points for Atlanta (16-11), who were without regulars Jamal Crawford and Joe Johnson.
