Celtics Topple Hornets

Kevin Garnett and the Boston Celtics hadn't forgotten their loss in New Orleans last weekend.

Paul Pierce scored 27 points, Garnett added 21, and the Celtics moved closer to wrapping up the top record overall by beating the Hornets 112-92 on Friday night.

"It always starts with our defense, and that's what we say every game," Pierce said.

The Hornets beat the Celtics 113-106 on Saturday night.

In the midst of a tight game, Garnett wanted his teammates to pick up the intensity defensively midway into the third quarter, and he showed them when he dropped to his knees with his hands close to the floor while setting up to cover David …