Pierce’s Return Fuels Celtics and a Rivalry

By HOWARD BECK

BOSTON — A brilliant rivalry was renewed Thursday night, with all the attendant tension, drama, ill will and ear-splitting volume.

And at the end of a long evening of “Beat L.A.” chants, the Boston Celtics had their first finals victory in 21 years, a convincing 98-88 defeat of the Lakers at TD Banknorth Garden to open this best-of-seven series.

Amid the heavy nostalgia for all things Lakers and Celtics, Paul Pierce borrowed a scene from another historic finals moment, doing his best Willis Reed impression to lead Boston to the victory.

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