Celtics-Pistons Game (Round 3) Highlight

With this win, the Celtics has become the first team to clinch a playoff spot. But more importantly, it gives them an effective 5 games cushion over the Pistons, including the homecourt tier-break.

Watch highlight (ESPN, NBA TV).

Celtics' struggle in defending Chauncey Billups continues. He scored 23 points, including 14-of-15 foul shots in the game. Rajon Rondo stays aggressive thoughout, perhaps too much on several occasions in which he attacks the basket without success. But Doc Rivers lets Rondo in the game to the end, and he is able to help increasing the lead. He draws a charging foul (and a technical) on Billups, that gives the Celtics an 82-77 lead. After a Pistons miss, Rondo gets the loose ball and throws it upcourt, where Pierce grabs it and put it in for an 85-77 lead.

Both Kevin Garnett (31 points) and Kendrick Perkins (20 rebounds) have a big game.

(Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images)