Paul Pierce admitted that he's played part of the season with a pinched nerve in his neck.

"It's something that's been bothering me probably for like the last two months," said Pierce. "It's getting better, though. The last couple weeks, it's been better than it has been."

For the season, Pierce is averaging 18.7 points on 41.9 percent shooting with 6.4 rebounds and 4.4 assists over 34 minutes per game.

Pierce said the All-Star break is coming at a perfect time.

The Celtics have won eight of their last nine games.

"So many things have gone on over the last weeks with us -- mentally and physically,” Pierce said. “I think this is a perfect time for the break, especially with the injuries we have. I think the latest blow with (Leandro) Barbosa, it really hit us mentally and emotionally. Guys really felt that."