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The Boston Celtics had chances to put away the Dallas Mavericks twice and failed, but it didn't matter, as they won in a second overtime period Wednesday night.
Rajon Rondo's jumper at the end of regulation was short -- way short, barely making it past the free throw line thanks to tight defense by a surprisingly competent Derek Fisher -- and Paul Pierce's look at the end of overtime was blocked by Dahntay Jones. But they opened up a two-possession lead in the second overtime and held on for the 117-115 win. Pierce had 34 points after finishing regulation with only 22, and Rondo was a rebound away from a triple double with 15 assists.
The extra sessions could hurt Boston going forward: they had three full off days heading into the game, not having played since Saturday night. But they hit the road to take on two Texas teams this weekend, playing at Houston in San Antonio to complete the Texas Triangle. Friday night's game in Houston will come just two days after most of their key players logged 40 minutes of game time, with Rajon Rondo playing over 52 minutes.