Pierce leads Celtics to seventh consecutive victory

BOSTON (Reuters) - The Boston Celtics streaked to their seventh consecutive win, turning back the Chicago Bulls 116-93 behind Paul Pierce's 22 points on Friday.

Kevin Garnett added 16 points and eight rebounds and Kendrick Perskins had 14 points and 11 rebounds for Boston, which won for the 10th successive time at home.

Ben Gordon topped the Bulls with 20 points.

Boston dominated from the start, taking a 32-20 first-quarter lead. The margin went to 20 at the half.

* The New Orleans Hornets scored a 107-96 home win over the New Jersey Nets.

* The Detroit Pistons defeated the New York Knicks 101-97 to move within one game of clinching a playoff spot.

* The Portland Trail Blazers pulled off a 103-101 road win over the Milwaukee Bucks.

* The Washington Wizards earned a 110-106 road victory over the Toronto Raptors.

* The Golden State Warriors crushed the Miami Heat 134-99.