Revived Celtics will see a lot of their old selves in Timberwolves tonight

By KENT YOUNGBLOOD, Star Tribune

Last update: January 24, 2008 - 9:36 PM

Nothing has changed, Al Jefferson said. He feels the same today as he did on July 31, when he came to Minnesota.

Jefferson was the biggest name to come west that day, when Kevin Garnett was traded to the Boston Celtics. He wasn't alone. A bevy of his Boston teammates came, too. Jefferson, Sebastian Telfair, Ryan Gomes and Gerald Green will be back in Boston tonight when the Wolves play the Celtics.

All four appear happy to be right where they are, even though Boston is chasing greatness while the Wolves rebuild.

"I was glad from Day 1," Jefferson said after Wolves practice Thursday. "Boston and Minnesota are at two different levels. They're trying to win a championship, like right now. Minnesota is looking to rebound. [But] being traded gave me the opportunity to become a leader and to have a team built around me."

Jefferson has gone from a supporting role to the lead. He is one of five players in the league averaging more than 20 points and 10 rebounds per game.

"I had to grow up fast," he said. "I had to. And I'm a different type of player than before, because I feel like, when I step on the court, if I play well, I'm setting an example for my teammates."

For Gomes, it is more of a homecoming. He grew up not far from Boston and attended Providence College.

"There will emotions in this game," said Gomes, who will have friends and family in attendance. "But I have to go out and play the game. I liked my time there. They drafted me, gave me a chance. But I'm here now, and we have to go out and try to win the game."

Precedent setting

On Wednesday rookie Corey Brewer had one of his best games as a pro, hitting six of 11 shots in the Wolves' victory over Phoenix. Brewer, who has struggled with his shooting all season, apparently gave a sneak preview the day before in practice.

"I don't think he missed a shot," said assistant coach Jerry Sichting. "He must have made 10 in a row. Everyone was kind of joking, you know, saying, 'Do it in a game.' And then he went out and did it in the game."

Etc.

• Guard Randy Foye took full part in Thursday's abbreviated practice and accompanied the team on its trip to Boston.

Recent Timberwolves stories

Rajon Rondo has 22 points, 14 assists in Boston's 107-102 win over Miami - January 24, 2008

Rajon Rondo has 22 points, 14 assists in Boston's 107-102 win over Miami - Rajon Rondo had 22 points and 14 assists in his second straight outstanding game against the Miami Heat, leading the Boston Celtics to a 107-102 victory Wednesday night. More