NBA: Boston 99, Atlanta 93

ATLANTA, March 27 (UPI) -- Ray Allen's 22 points helped Boston build a 20-point lead in the fourth quarter Friday and the Celtics hung on to defeat Atlanta 99-93.

Paul Pierce chipped in 21 points and Glen Davis had 19 with 12 rebounds, boosting Boston to its sixth straight regular-season victory over the Hawks.

The Celtics played without Kevin Garnett, who was resting a sore right knee.

Atlanta was led by Josh Smith and Joe Johnson with 22 points each.

The Celtics took an 89-69 lead midway through the fourth period, but Atlanta scored 10 in a row and eventually got to within four with 1:10 remaining.

Pierce then made all four of his free throws during the final minute to protect the lead.

Atlanta took the eventual champion Celtics to seven games in the opening round of last year's playoffs.