BOSTON CELTICS (62-20)

How it ended: With two unappealing visions - Kevin Garnett in a suit and his teammates taking a rare Game Seven home beating that short-circuited Boston's dreams of defending its title. 

Coach: Doc Rivers is remarkably upbeat and forthcoming for a coach, which cloaks his occasional inflexibility with plays and player rotations. He has sandwiched his championship with two Game Seven home losses. There will be additional focus on him this season. 

Arrivals: F Rasheed Wallace, G-F Marquis Daniels, F Shelden Williams, G Lester Hudson 

Departures: F Leon Powe, C Mikki Moore, G Stephon Marbury 

Projected starters: F Paul Pierce, F Kevin Garnett, C Kendrick Perkins, G Ray Allen, G Rajon Rondo 

Position battles: The starters are set, but it will be interesting to see if Daniels' versatility takes minutes away from one-dimensional Eddie House or inconsistent Tony Allen, neither of whom defends well. Bill Walker's improvement coupled with Brian Scalabrine's concussions could mean a shift at backup forward. 

Chemistry experiment: Rondo's stubbornness and desire for a new deal could present pro blems because Daniels - erratic with the ball - is the best alternative at point guard. The volatile Wallace has been on regular-season cruise control since 2005 and will have his testiness tested by the Boston media. Let's not forget he also is replacing fan favorite and hard worker Powe. And will Ray Allen sulk if he doesn't get a contract extension? 

Best case: Garnett, who has missed 36 games over the last two seasons, is healthy and returns as emotional leader. Rondo and Ray Allen keep their contract issues to themselves. Wallace is rejuvenated by new surroundings. Daniels fits the bill as a bench jack-of-all-trades. 

Worst case: Age creeps in a year or two early, Wallace feuds with anyone that breathes, Rondo forgets his role and the bench again looks shallow entering the postseason. 

Prediction: Give Danny Ainge credit for recognizing that his team needed more than just a healthy Garnett to remain among the East's elite. The Celtics have to find the balance between gaining home-court advantage and keeping their veterans fresh for the postseason. They will be virtually unbeatable if they have the top seed but vulnerable otherwise.