Paul

Pierce

“We had a number of how many 3’s we wanted to limit them to,” said Paul Pierce, “and we did more than reach our number tonight...We felt like Dwight couldn’t beat us by himself.” They were right -- Howard scored 28 points (22 in the first half) and Boston cruised to a 91-80 victory.

Pierce had a fever of 104 yesterday. He could be a gametime decision in Portland.

Gary Payton was the one taking the high road, but Paul Pierce wasn’t too thrilled: “I guess I didn’t play no defense, if that’s what he said. I guess we have to outscore everybody, or sit me down, I don’t know.” The Celtics have some issues, not the least of which is Mark Blount’s disappointing play after signing a big contract. Some in Boston would rather see more of rookie Al Jefferson than Blount.

Pierce missed last night’s game and it appears he could miss a few more with his injured back.

Pierce is expected to be fine. He could return to practice today.

''Today I’m feeling a lot better,’' Pierce said. ''It just comes and goes. I really can’t predict it.’'

The Celtics won their fourth game in a row behind Pierce’s nice performance.

Pierce missed the shootaround prior to the game and by the fourth quarter, where he shot just 1-for-5, he was feeling a little weak.

Pierce has yet to miss a game this season.

Piercen missed his first game of the season Monday with a sore ankle.