Pierce return can't ease Celtics misery

0 Comments | AFP, February, 2007

BOSTON, United States (AFP) — Paul Pierce's return wasn't enough to end the Boston Celtics' National Basketball Association misery.

Pierce, sidelined since December 22 with a foot injury, received a standing ovation when he entered the game, but once again Celtics fans weren't cheering at the final buzzer.

The Celtics surrendered the first 10 points and shot 34.6 percent from the floor as they extended their franchise-record losing streak to 17 games with a 92-78 loss against the struggling New Jersey Nets.

Vince Carter scored 21 points and Jason Kidd added 13, eight rebounds and nine assists for the Nets, who have won two straight after losing four in a row.

The proud Boston franchise, whose 16 NBA titles are the most of any club, hoped that the...