Kevin Garnett recorded 22 points, 20 rebounds and five assists in a statement-like 103-83 win over the Washington Wizards on Friday night at the debut of the Celtics’ Big Three.

Paul Pierce was in top form as well and he finished the game with 28 points, while Ray Allen scored 17 to show everybody their potential and the fact that they have become a serious NBA title contender. Not bad for a team that had the longest losing streak in its history last season, 18 games, and finished with its second-worst record, 24-58.

"Tonight was rocking, man," Garnett said after a game in which he was received with standing ovations and when he left the court the fans were still cheering for him.

For the Wizards, Gilbert Arenas was once again the leading scorer with 21 points, while Caron Butler had 18. Arenas went just 5-for-20 from the field.

"We played OK - not our best," said Garnett. "We still have some work to do. We're a work in progress, but this is about the journey."

The Boston Celtics have been a legendary franchise. It managed to win a record 16 NBA championships, but over the past 22 years they’ve recorded no success. Last season was disastrous as they finished with an embarrassing 24-58 record.

Nevertheless, after acquiring Garnett and Allen in the off season, the Celtics are now regarded as on of the favorites to win the Eastern Conference, and maybe the NBA title.  

"It's a good message to put out there, but we're going to get tested every night," said all star veteran Ray Allen.

Boston outscored the Wizard 37-18 in the second quarter to earn the upper hand in the second half when they widened the gap to 27 in the third quarter and never dipped below 15 the rest of the way.
 
Garnett, Pierce, and Allen left the game to well-deserved standing ovation with 2:30 left and the Celtics ahead, 98-75.