Layne Murdoch Jr./NBAE via Getty Images[/caption]Boston Celtics 109, Philadelphia 76ers 101
Avery Bradley, who’s usually known for his outstanding defense, scored a season-high 22 points on 10-of-15 shooting while also grabbing seven rebounds and dishing five assists. Paul Pierce was perfect from long-distance and had 18 points. He also grabbed 11 rebounds.
The Celtics started the fourth quarter with a 9-0 run that helped them extend their lead from five to 14, ending the Sixers' chances.
Jrue Holiday had 18 points, 10 assists and five boards for the Philadelphia, who have now lost nine out of the last 10 games as their playoffs chances continue to fade away.
Oklahoma City Thunder 120, Los Angeles Lakers 105
The Thunder continued their dominance over the Lakers at the Chesapeake Energy Arena, winning for the sixth consecutive time. Russell Westbrook dominated the Lakers with 37 points, 10 rebounds and five assist.
Los Angeles saw their superstar Kobe Bryant leave the game temporary in the first quarter due to a ulnar nerve contusion in his right elbow. Bryant returned to the game and finished with 30 points.
Oklahoma City led from beginning to end and tied an NBA record with just two turnovers for the entire night. The Lakers closed the gap to five in the fourth quarter before OKCended the quarter on a 10-0 run.
Denver Nuggets 120, Sacramento Kings 113
Danilo Gallinari scored 23 points while Ty Lawson added 24 for Denver, who beat the Kings for the third time this season and have now won six straight games.
With the game tied at halftime, Denver exploded for 36 third quarter points, outscoring Sacramento by seven and that ended up being the difference in the game.
Marcus Thornton scored 32 points for Sacramento, who now own the worst record in the Western Conference.
