Garnett's blow mars Phoenix's win

Phoenix Suns’ Steve Nash reaches to rub Boston Celtics’ Shaquille O’Neal’s head prior to the start of an NBA basketball game Friday, Jan. 28, 2011, in Phoenix.

Matt York, Associated Press

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Boston Celtics head coach Doc Rivers makes a final comment as he exits the court after being ejected by official Steve Javie against the Phoenix Suns during an NBA basketball game on Friday, Jan. 28, 2011, in Phoenix.

The Arizona Republic, Rob Schumacher) MARICOPA COUNTY OUT; MAGS OUT; NO SALES, Associated Press

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Boston Celtics’ Rajon Rondo (9) has his shot blocked by Phoenix Suns’ Steve Nash during the first quarter of an NBA basketball game Friday, Jan. 28, 2011, in Phoenix.

Matt York, Associated Press

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Phoenix Suns’ Marcin Gortat tries to knock the ball away from Boston Celtics’ Semih Erden (cq) during an NBA basketball game on Friday, Jan. 28, 2011, in Phoenix.

The Arizona Republic, Rob Schumacher) MARICOPA COUNTY OUT; MAGS OUT; NO SALES, Associated Press

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PHOENIX — Marcin Gortat had career highs of 19 points and 17 rebounds, Vince Carter added 17 points and the Phoenix Suns ran over the weary Boston Celtics 88-71 Friday night in a game that turned ugly late.

Phoenix was dominant inside against Boston's front line to build an 18-point lead in the first half and never let up, snapping a three-game losing streak.

Steve Nash had 13 points and 10 assists, while Robin Lopez and Mickael Pietrus added 11 points apiece.

Boston, the NBA's top-shooting team, never found a rhythm offensively, shooting 34 percent and making just two of its 18 3-point attempts. Kevin Garnett had 18 points and nine rebounds, but was ejected in the fourth quarter after a below-the-belt shot on Channing Frye.

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Garnett’s blow mars Phoenix’s win