Is there any stopping this Green Machine?

By NBA.com staff reports
Posted Dec 12 2008 7:13AM

When Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett joined Paul Pierce last season, there was talk of a new Big Three in Boston. We won't start that debate, but the new trio has the Celtics off to a franchise-best 21-2 start after cruising to a 122-88 win -- their 13th straight -- over the Wizards. Even Bill Russell, Bob Cousy and Larry Bird never were this good this early.

The Celtics knew what they were playing for. Twice before, including last season, Boston went 20-2 before losing Game No. 23.

"I've been a big fan of history,'' Garnett said. "To establish ourselves in that history that's so enriched with culture and prestige and tradition is a great thing.''

So is this season's version better than the one that won the championship last year? "We don't know yet. That question is yet to be found out,'' Pierce said. "It's just only a quarter of the season over with. Ask me April 18, and I'll give you a better answer.''