Boston Celtics took a 2-0 lead in the NBA semifinal series after defeating Orlando Magic 95-92 on Tuesday.

Paul Pierce scored 28 points and Rajon Rondo finished with 25 as Boston are two wins away from the second finals appearance in three sessons.

Dwight Howard had 30 points, and Vince Carter and J.J. Redick scored 16 apiece for Orlando who rallied from an 11-point deficit to take a brief lead in final quarter.

Jameer Nelson's desperation three pointer missed the rim entirely at the buzzer.

Game three will shift to Boston.