Ainge: Return Is Garnett's Decision

Celtics president Danny Ainge said on Tuesday that Kevin Garnett's return to the court from his knee injury will be very much up to the reigning Defensive Player of the Year.

"When Kevin plays is his decision," Ainge said. "But I think Kevin plays once the playoffs start. Ultimately, it's just his decision. Could Kevin play right now? Absolutely. But the question is whether it is in his best interests. I don't think there's anyone out there who feels he can't play. It's just a hot topic right now - like the Tom Brady knee issue."

Boston coach Doc Rivers doesn't believe that Garnett will miss any time in the first round.

"I don't think there's any chance of that," Rivers said when asked if KG would miss the first game of the postseason.

"He left (for Boston) because you can get better treatment at home than here. I do think Kevin needs more time to get ready. If tonight was a big game could he play? We don't know."