But Minnesota could not handle the Mavericks in the conference finals, and this year it appears to have taken a step back after trading Karl-Anthony Towns to the Knicks for Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo.

The Boston Celtics defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves Sunday afternoon 107-105, narrowly avoiding what would have been an ugly loss. Instead, Boston earns a fifth consecutive win and advances to 14-3 for the season.

The Celtics had their chances to pull away against the Timberwolves, but they sealed the win with their defense at the end of the game.

It’s a shame that the Celtics and Timberwolves play each other just twice per season. Lately, whenever Boston and Minnesota square off, drama ensues. Sunday’s matchup at TD Garden was no different, with the Celtics surviving a furious Wolves comeback to win 107-105.

The Boston Celtics earned a tough home win against the visiting Minnesota Timberwolves Sunday afternoon. With a 107-105 win, Boston moves to 17-3 in the standings.