Blake Griffin scored 15 points to lead all scorers and the Los Angeles Clippers used a 12-0 run late in the second quarter to take a nine-point advantage, 48-39, over the Boston Celtics into halftime at the Staples Center on Monday evening.
Boston started the game well, pulling ahead 9-2 in the opening minutes and shooting 59% (10-for-17) in the first quarter to take a 25-21 lead into the second. Both teams kept the game close through the four minute mark before Los Angeles went on its run. The Clippers outscored the Celtics, 27-14, in the quarter.
Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett each scored eight points in the half and Rajon Rondo added six points, four assists and two steals. Avery Bradley provided a boost off the bench in the first quarter, scoring all six of his points in the frame.
Mo Williams was more than solid off the bench for Los Angeles, chipping in with 14 points.
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