Harry Oliver led Boston in scoring, with 17 goals and 23 points.
With eight games remaining, they lead Boston by six games.
Larry Bird led Boston with 25 points, including 8 in overtime.
Ricky Davis led Boston with 25 points off the bench.
Dominique Wilkins led Boston with 22 points, but he did most of his damage after the outcome had been decided.
Robert Parish, who led Boston with 21 points and 14 rebounds, dominated inside play early.
Pierce led Boston with 19 points in the game.
The Yankees continued to cement their superiority; they lead Boston by eight games.
The Yankees lead Boston by 5 1/2 games with 10 to play.
McHale, who led Boston with 26 points, picked up his fourth foul just 1:10 later.