BOSTON-When one thinks of the greatest Celtics of all time, historians at a future date will have to consider one who hated them as a youth. Paul Pierce, who grew up in Inglewood, Calif. cheering for the Lakers and despising the Celtics was actually Boston’s impetus for success in Game 1 of the NBA Finals Thursday at the TD Banknorth Garden. Pierce, who overcame the effects of a sprained knee, had 15 third quarter points, to go with 22 overall as Boston defeated the Los Angeles Lakers, 98-88 to take an early 1-0 lead. Kevin Garnett had 24 points and 13 rebounds to lead the Celtics, who outscored Los Angeles, 31-22 in the pivotal third quarter, while Ray Allen added 19 more points for Boston. The Lakers, despite a strong start which netted them a 51-45 lead at intermission faded down the stretch as Kobe Bryant (9-26 FG’s) struggled mightily from the field. Although Bryant admitted afterwards that he missed many easy shots, the Celtics defense was stifling in the latter 24 minutes as it surrendered only 37 points to seize the early lead in the series. Bryant had 24 points to lead the Lakers, while Pau Gasol and Derek Fisher had 15 points apiece and Lamar Odom added 14 more points. Game 2 will take place Sunday evening in Boston.