Paul Pierce is helping his Celtics teammates do what he does best - score points.

Pierce led Boston with 35 points and had nine assists as the Celtics used defense and the 3-point shot to beat the Utah Jazz 112-95 Monday night.

"I know the focus of the defense most of the time is going to be on me," Pierce said. "If I can find open men, it's going to open things up for me."