BOSTON, June 9 (UPI) -- Paul Pierce had 28 points and the Boston Celtics held off a furious fourth-quarter comeback Sunday to beat the LA Lakers 108-102 in Game 2 of the NBA Finals.
The Celtics were cruising with a 24-point lead with eight minutes remaining but the Lakers climbed back into contention -- getting to within two points in the closing seconds before the Celtics restored order and went on to take a 2-0 lead in the seven-game series.
Game 3 is set for Tuesday in Los Angeles.
Pierce, who sustained a knee injury in Game 1 Thursday, was 9 of 16 from the field and handed out eight assists Sunday. He also connected on two big free throws in the final minute to help seal the victory.
Leon Powe scored 21 for the Celtics off the bench, including 9 of 13 from the foul line. Kevin Garnett had 17 points and 14 rebounds, Ray Allen had 17 points and Rajon Rondo had 16 assists for Boston.
Kobe Bryant scored 30 -- 21 in the second half -- and Pau Gasol had 17 points and 10 rebounds for the Lakers, who have won 14 straight games at Staples Center, including eight straight playoff contests.
