The Boston Celtics won over Indiana Pacers on Tuesday night with 104-97, becoming the first NBA team to get its 40th win.  This is despite the absence of injured players Kevin Garnett, who had abdominal strain, and Kendrick Perkins, who strained his left shoulder.  Boston, however, does not get into a big celebration — yet.  Having finished last season with a record of 24-58, the team is saving its celebrations for later.

Coach Doc Rivers stressed that they are not looking at numbers but are grabbing the opportunity to get better each time as they prepare for the playoffs.  As for their 40 wins, Paul Pierce comments that it shows the team is headed the right way.  He says that now the team is building good habits.  Paul Pierce scored 28 points and had 12 rebounds.  Ray Allen scored 23 points while Leon Powe scored 16 points and had 9 rebounds.  Pierce also said that the absence of Garnett and Perkins is not an excuse for them not to win, and they would have to hold it out until the two could play again.

For the Pacers, Danny Granger gave 18 points, 5 blocks, and 10 rebounds, and Shawne Williams gave the team 14 points.  Indiana also played without their starters, Jermaine O’Neal and Jamaal Tinsley, who were both injured. 

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