NBA: Boston 107, Chicago 86

CHICAGO, April 23 (UPI) -- Paul Pierce and Rajon Rondo dominated on offense Thursday and Boston's defense forced 22 turnovers in carrying the Celtics past Chicago 107-86.

Boston took a 22-point halftime lead and coasted from there to grab a 2-1 advantage in the opening-round playoff series. The defending champion Celtics needed a late 3-pointer from Ray Allen Monday to prevent a possible 2-0 deficit against the Bulls, but Boston stormed back on the opponent's floor to gain command in the series for the first time.

Pierce scored 24 points and Rondo, playing through pain brought about by an ankle sprain, had 11 rebounds to go with his 20 points. Allen added 18.

Boston limited Chicago to 37 percent shooting from the floor and the Celtics' aggressive defense created 16 steals.

A 10-2 run during the middle stages of the first period gave Boston a 23-12 advantage and Chicago never recovered. The Celtics owned a 59-37 halftime lead.

Chicago was led by Ben Gordon with 15 points, but he made only 5-of-13 attempts from the field.

The fourth game of the series will take place Sunday in Chicago.