Boston Celtics defeat Minnesota Timberwolves, 109-101

Paul Pierce's recent performances have been marked by defending and passing rather than scoring. In fact, Pierce had more assists than field goals over three games last week.

But Pierce returned to his virtuoso, take-over-the-game, shot-making form in a 109-101 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves yesterday at TD Banknorth Garden, the Celtics' 11th successive victory.

The main reason for Pierce's transformation was the absence of Kevin Garnett (flu), but he also m...