Celtics beat Timberwolves to climb atop the Atlantic

Minneapolis, MN – For the first time this season, Boston is alone atop the Atlantic Division.

Kevin Garnett had 24 points and 10 rebounds, and the Celtics beat Minnesota, 100-79, at the Target Center Friday night. Boston's win, combined with Philadelphia's 97-76 loss at Washington, moved the Celtics a game ahead of the 76ers in the division.

Paul Pierce contributed 21 points and Rajon Rondo tallied 17 assists, as the Celtics won their fourth in a row. They've also beaten Minnesota 10 straight times, and now look forward to a home game against the Miami Heat Sunday afternoon.

Kevin Love had 22 points and 11 rebounds, but went just 5-of-18 from the field as Minnesota faltered by shooting 34.7 percent.