BOSTON: The Dallas Mavericks didn't look ready at the beginning of the game. They sure made it look easy in the final quarter. 

Dirk Nowitzki scored 23 points, Wesley Matthews had 18 and the Mavericks erased an 18-point, first-half deficit to beat the Boston Celtics 106-102 on Wednesday night for their fifth straight victory. 

Zaza Pachulia had 14 points and 12 rebounds for the Mavericks. Deron Williams added 16 points, including consecutive key baskets.

But it came down to a crucial steal to seal it.

The Celtics closed to 104-102 and had a chance to tie or take the lead, but Raymond Felton stole the ball from Isaiah Thomas in the closing seconds after Felton missed two free throws that would have secured the win.

Williams then nailed two free throws, making him perfect on 30 attempts this season.

Boston coach Brad Stevens knew his team wasted an opportunity.

Trailing from the game's opening basket, the Mavericks erased a nine-point halftime deficit, tying it twice in the third quarter, but Boston closed with an 11-4 spree to lead 78-70 after three. Kelly Olynyk and Bradley each had a 3-pointer from the left corner during the run.

The Mavericks shot 64.7 percent (11 of 17) in the second after starting the game ice cold.

Bradley scored 12 straight points in 1:43 during an 18-3 run that carried Boston to a 31-16 lead after one quarter.

Quarter by quarter 

Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 FINAL SCORE 

Boston Celtics 31 23 24 24 102

Dallas Mavericks 16 29 25 36 106