The Orlando Magic took a share of the lead, when they beat the Toronto Raptors 104-96 for their fifth straight win.

Vince Carter led the way for the Magic with 24 points, while Dwight Howard registered 17 points and 12 rebounds.

JJ Redick added 19 points for Orlando, who moved alongside the inactive Atlanta Hawks.

The Phoenix Suns took sole possession of the leadership of the Western Conference with a 117-91 win over the Detroit Pistons to remain perfect at home.

Amare Stoudemire scored 21 points against the Pistons, who have now lost five straight.

At 11-3, the Suns, Magic and Hawks are tied for the best record in the NBA.

Paul Pierce's 33 points led the Boston Celtics to a 107-105 overtime victory over the New York Nicks.

It was Kevin Garnett who stole the glory, though, sinking a 19-footer on the buzzer to seal the win.

Kobe Bryant highlighted a 26-point performance with a crowd-pleasing basket from behind the backboard as the Los Angeles Lakers beat the Oklahoma City Thunder 101-85.

Dwyane Wade's 31 points gave the Miami Heat a 102-101 win over the New Orleans Hornets and the Charlotte Bobcats won their first game in eight with a 104-88 defeat of the Indiana Pacers.