The Boston Celtics took another step toward securing the Atlantic Division title on Wednesday night, defeating the Atlanta Hawks 88-86 in overtime.
With the win, the Celtics remained three games ahead of the Philadelphia 76ers with eight games remaining for both teams. Boston is knotted with the Atlanta Hawks for the Eastern Conference's fourth-best record, but would have the No. 4 seed if the season ended today because division winners automatically get a top-four seed. Home court advantage in the first round still relies on record, so the Celtics could theoretically earn the fourth seed but play on the road in round one.
It's possible for the Celtics to catch the Indiana Pacers for the third seed, but they would have to make up a two-game deficit. Indiana has been playing good ball, winning seven of their last 10.
The full 2012 Eastern Conference standings follow:
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