Boston Celtics Team Report - November 18

(Basketball News) - The Boston Celtics were defeated by the New York Knicks, 89-86, on Monday at Madison Square Garden.

Vin Baker scored 20 points, while Paul Pierce and Eric Williams each delivered 17 points for the Celtics, who lost for the second time in three games. Pierce had a chance to force overtime, but his three-point attempt from the left wing at the buzzer bounced off the rim.

Two foul shots by Kedrick Brown staked Boston to an 84-80 advantage with less than five minutes remaining.

Allan Houston responded with five straight points to put the Knicks ahead 85-84 with 3:45 to go.

After Pierce converted two free throws to regain an 86-85 lead for the Celtics, Michael Doleac hit the go-ahead shot off a pass from Howard Eisley.

Doleac added the final foul shots with five seconds remaining.

The Celtics are off until Wednesday when they host Baron Davis and the New Orleans Hornets.