The Boston Celtics defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers 105-94 in Boston on Friday night.  It was a battle of the 2 top teams in the Eastern Conference – the Cavs (48-13) now lead the Celtics (49-14) by percentage points because they have played 2 less games than the Celtics.  It marked the 15th straight time that the home team has won the contest between the 2 teams.

The Celtics used a 33-26 edge in the 3rd quarter to pull away in the 2nd half.  Paul Pierce led the way for the Celtics – 29 points, 4 rebounds and 9 assists.  Leonard Powe also turned in a solid night off the bench with 20 points and 11 rebounds.  Ray Allen chipped in 17 points and 6 rebounds, while Rajon Rondo dished out 10 assists.

For the Cavs, Lebron James had a mediocre night – 21 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists.  Mo Williams actually led the Cavs in scoring with 26 points.  Delonte West had a productive night too – 5 points, 6 rebounds and 8 assists.

We’ll likely see a rematch of these 2 teams in the Eastern Conference Finals later this year.  It should be a joy to watch, as the Cavs are much more balanced this year and have the ability to beat any team in any arena – even the defending champion Boston Celtics.