Paul Pierce scored 30 points, and the Boston Celtics blew nearly all of a 30-point lead before beating the New York Knicks 97–90 last night

Two nights after erasing a 20-point deficit in a victory at New Jersey, Boston led 68–38 early in the third quarter of this one. But the Celtics went cold in the fourth quarter, allowing the Knicks to close within three points with 1:28 to play.

The Knicks nearly completed the biggest comeback in franchise history – – and would have if not for a dismal night at the foul line. New York was only 17-of-32 (53%) on free throws.

Eddy Curry scored 30 points, his 10th straight game with 20 or more. But the Knicks quickly fell behind and never threatened until late, falling to 2-3 on their season-high six-game homestand that ends tomorrow against Atlanta.

***

NETS 105, GRIZZLIES 92 Vince Carter put on a long-range show and set a Nets’ single-game record with nine 3-pointers in a 105–92 victory over the struggling Memphis Grizzlies last night.

Carter finished with 37 points and Jason Kidd moved into sole possession of third place ahead of Wilt Chamberlain for career triple-doubles, registering his 79th with 12 points, 13 assists, 10 rebounds.

The Nets’ also tied a franchise record with 15 3-pointers in snapping a threegame losing streak and winning for only the third time in 11 games.

Richard Jefferson added 16 points for New Jersey, which rebounded after heart-breaking losses to Phoenix and Boston in its last two games. The Nets were 15-for-30 from 3-point range.

Chucky Atkins had 26 points to lead Memphis, which was never in the game after scoring a season-low 10 points in the first quarter and falling behind by 15 points. Damon Stoudemire added 14 points for the Grizzlies, who have lost three straight and 8 of 11.

Carter put the Grizzlies to sleep early. He hit his first five 3-pointers, 6-of-7 and 7-of-10 in the first half alone in tying the Nets’ record and the NBA season-high for 3-pointers. The All Star guard tied his career high with no. 8 with 6:39 left in the third quarter. No. 9 came 31 seconds later from the right wing, and it was followed quickly by 3-pointers by Kidd and Jefferson.

Carter, who attempted 20 3-pointers, and Kidd held the old Nets’ single-game mark with seven 3-pointers. Carter had eight in a game with Toronto.

Carter, who was 14-of-30 from the field, outscored the Grizzlies 12-10 in the first half, hitting four 3-pointers. His four baskets matched Memphis’ total for the quarter. The Grizzlies were 4-of-17 from the field.