MINNEAPOLIS, March 30 (UPI) -- Kevin Garnett ignited Boston to a quick start Friday and the Celtics steadily pulled away to defeat Minnesota 100-79.
The Celtics moved atop the Atlantic Division by themselves for the first time all season. Boston climbed a game in front of Philadelphia after the 76ers fell to Washington.
It has been an uphill climb for Boston throughout the campaign, after the Celtics lost eight of their first 12 games this season.
Garnett made 12-of-18 shots and scored 24 points. Boston took a 31-20 lead after one period and was never threatened. It was the Celtics' 10th straight win over the Timberwolves.
Paul Pierce chipped in 21 points in Boston's fourth consecutive victory overall, and Rajon Rondo had 17 assists.
Kevin Love scored 22 points and had 11 rebounds for Minnesota, but made only 5-of-18 from the field.
