Paul Pierce scored 9 of his 24 points during a game-breaking third-quarter run and Avery Bradley hit his first career 3-pointer, helping the Boston Celtics beat the injury-depleted New Jersey Nets 89-70 Wednesday night.

Reserve Brandon Bass scored 15 and grabbed 13 rebounds, and Rajon Rondo had eight points and 12 assists for the Celtics (4-3).

Boston has won four straight since dropping all three of a season-opening road trip.

Kevin Garnett had 14 points and 12 boards, Bradley finished with 11 points.

Boston broke it open with an 18-3 run to close the third quarter.

MarShon Brooks, making his first career start, led the Nets with 17 points, and Jordan Farmar had 11. New Jersey has lost six straight since a season-opening win at Washington.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)

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