Celtics About to Punch Ticket

Last-second tip-in decides it; Garnett sits out in return to Minn.

(NEWSER) - Leon Powe put back a missed layup attempt by Ray Allen as the horn sounded allowing Boston to eek past the Timberwolves for the second time in two weeks, 88-86. The game marked the return of Kevin Garnett to Minnesota, the former franchise player who was traded before the season. He received a 75-second standing ovation, reports the Star-Tribune. More»

Joe Johnson's three-pointer with a minute remaining holds up

(NEWSER) - Atlanta just won't let go of its first trip to the postseason in nine years. The playoff team with the worst record did it again to the team with the best mark, forcing an improbable Game 7 with the Boston Celtics, as Joe Johnson hit a crucial 3-pointer with 1:07 remaining and the Hawks held on for a 103-100 victory Friday. More»

(NEWSER) - Takedowns and menacing gestures. Double technicals and flagrant fouls. And the Boston Celtics are heading to Atlanta to try to deliver the knockout punch. Paul Pierce scored a playoff-high 22 points and Ray Allen hit three 3-pointers in the middle of the third quarter Wednesday night to turn back the Hawks' last charge, leading Boston to a hard-fought 110-85 victory over Atlanta More»

Game 1 loss leaves Atlanta winless against Boston this season

(NEWSER) - Ray Allen scored 18 points and Kevin Garnett had 16 as the two newcomers who led the Boston Celtics to the NBA's best record sparked them to a 104-81 win last night in their playoff opener against the Atlanta Hawks. Rookie Al Horford led the Hawks with 20 points and 10 rebounds and Joe Johnson added 19 points. More»

Cassell, Boston keep Atlanta from reaching playoffs for first time since 1999

(NEWSER) - Sam Cassell and Boston's backups outplayed Atlanta's starters in the fourth quarter, and the Celtics prevented the Hawks from clinching their first playoff berth since 1999 with a 99-89 victory tonight. Atlanta would have ended the NBA's longest playoff drought with a victory, because Indiana lost to Charlotte earlier today. The Hawks remained two games ahead of the Pacers with two to play. More»