Return of the Rondo: Timberwolves at Celtics Preview

Where: TD Garden; Boston, MA

When: 6:30 CST

See It: FSN

Hear It: WCCO 830-AM

On the second night of a back-to-back, the Wolves come into Boston to play a well-rested Celtics team that is also returning Rajon Rondo. The Wolves are coming off one of their best shooting performances of the season, and face a Celtics team that may or may not still be in IDGAF mode. Offensively, they’re more bearable to watch (Remember the Sixers-C’s series from last year’s playoffs? Yeah, gross.), but they’re still piecing together their defense, ranking 17th in opponent’s points per game. However, opponents aren’t teeing off on them, with the Celtics ranking 18th opponent eFG against.

Of course, there’s Kevin Garnett, who always seems hell-bent on upending his former team no matter what the calendar says. Garnett, although no longer a 30 mpg player, is still an effective one, posting 15 and 7 on 52% shooting.

The Celtics have had one glaring weakness so far this season, and that’s on the glass– ranking 25th overall and 30th in offensive rebounding, limiting their second chance points to an extent. The Wolves still have Big Pek and Kevin Love, so there is certainly a chance for this trend to continue tonight.

Not feeling my stats? Well, the Celtics lost to Milwaukee, who lost to the Wolves, which means that: Timberwolves > Bucks > Celtics > Lakers. Ok, I’m ridiculous, but tune in and check the game out for yourself.

Projected Starting Fives:

Luke Ridnour — PG — Rajon Rondo

Malcolm Lee — SG — JET

Josh Howard — SF — Courtney Lee

Kevin Love — PF — Brandon Bass

Nikola Pekovic — C — KG