Garnett received a standing ovation during introductions and was cheered throughout the game, but these young Timberwolves also took it as an opportunity to introduce themselves to a fan base that has turned indifferent in the years since KG left.

"We played hard, we played with a lot of energy," Pecherov said. "We just have to learn how to finish these games. We've been playing the last three games with great effort. To lose at the end of the game is kind of hard. It's what we need to learn about."

The Wolves (1-4) led by eight at halftime and three with 6:44 to play, but couldn't hang on against the battle-tested Celtics. They have lost the last three games by a combined 13 points.

"They battled once again," Rambis said. "I like the way our guys are fighting. I like the way they're competing. They just don't quit. They keep believing they can win. I admire that about them."

NOTES: Wolves PG Jonny Flynn, a Syracuse alum, said he's been inundated with jabs since the Orange lost to Division-II Le Moyne. "I'm getting phone calls, text messages, they won't stop!" Flynn said sheepishly. ... Celtics F Rasheed Wallace was in midseason form, picking up a technical foul from the bench for jawing with officials after being whistled for a foul on Pecherov.