The Celtics badly need a victory tonight after two consecutive losses, including a discouraging defensive effort against the Rockets Monday. Houston hit 18 of its first 27 shots of the second half, causing coach Doc Rivers to rip his team's effort and accuse the players of expecting to win because Houston was shorthanded.

The same could be said for the Sacramento Kings, who are one of the league's worst teams and coming off a difficult overtime loss last night at Washington. But the Celtics need to be focused and make this game an easy one.

We'll get you guys a Kevin Garnett update as soon as we can. He is considered a game-time decision.

Be careful in the conditions and make it to TD Garden safely, even if it's a few minutes late.

STARTING LINEUPS

BOSTON CELTICS (28-9)

PG Rajon Rondo
SG Ray Allen
SF Paul Pierce
PF Glen Davis
C Shaquille O'Neal

SACRAMENTO KINGS (8-27)

PG Beno Udrih (23 games in double figures)
SG Luther Head (Has played in just 22 games)
SF Francisco Garcia (Has scored in double figures in six straight games)
PF Jason Thompson (Double-double Jan. 9 vs. Toronto)
C DeMarcus Cousins (Six double-doubles this season, 12.8 ppg)