Paul Pierce scored 27 points and the Celtics moved closer toward clinching the division title with a 105-98 victory over second-place Philadelphia on Tuesday night.

``This was the biggest game to date,'' said Pierce, who had 13 rebounds. ``We had a lot on the line. We're our own worst enemy right now. It's in our hands to take.''

Philadelphia holds the eighth and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference, one game behind Cleveland and one game ahead of New Jersey.

``It's about as disappointing as it gets,'' Iverson said.

Chris Webber, returning after missing five games with a sprained left shoulder, wasn't a factor, finishing with eight points and seven rebounds.

``I wanted to come back and be here for a big game,'' Webber said. ``Something's got to change. Hopefully, it will get better soon.''