(My Sportsbook) - Celtics forward Kevin Garnett didn't get a chance to play against his former team in Minnesota last season because of an abdominal strain. Garnett has been back at full strength for quite some time now and will lead Boston tonight against the Timberwolves at the Target Center.

Garnett spent 12 seasons with the Timberwolves and is regarded as the best player in franchise history. Before an 88-86 win on February 8, an injured Garnett received a standing ovation from the sold-out crowd after being introduced before the starting lineups. He waved to the crowd and pounded his chest with his right fist to thank the fans. The All-Star then walked off the floor and returned to the locker room for the duration of the game.

The Big Ticket returned Thursday night after a one-game suspension for hitting Milwaukee's Andrew Bogut during Boston's 102-97 overtime win on Saturday. Garnett had 15 points in the 98-80 victory over the Detroit Pistons at TD Banknorth Garden while Rajon Rondo had 18 points and handed out eight assists for the Celtics, who have won three straight to improve to 11-2 this season.

Tony Allen chipped in 13 points and Ray Allen netted 12 in the win. Boston will put its four-game road winning streak on the line Friday night.

Minnesota put the brakes on an eight-game losing streak with Wednesday's hard- fought 102-96 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers at home. Al Jefferson led all scorers with 25 points and Craig Smith added 21 off the bench for Minnesota, which battled back from an early double-digit deficit to pick up just its second win of the season (2-8).

Mike Miller finished with 10 points, 10 rebounds and six assists in a winning effort. In injury news for the 'Wolves, guard Rashad McCants is questionable for Friday's game due to lower back spasms.

Boston went 2-0 against Minnesota last season and has won three straight and 10 of the last 15 meetings.

The Celtics are 6-2 in their last eight trips to Minnesota.