"Kevin Garnett will play against the Heat tonight thanks to the good graces of the NBA, which decided not to penalize the Celtics forward for his actions immediately following Sunday's 106-104 loss to the Knicks at Madison Square Garden in New York.

Garnett, after missing the potential game-tying shot as the buzzer sounded, lunged at Bill Walker and made contact with the Knicks forward's throat.

Celtics president Danny Ainge, who watched the game on television, believes the proper decision was rendered.

"I don't think it was that kind of thing," Ainge said yesterday. "It might be a technical foul, but that's all. I don't know what was said. He was provoked in some regard."

Walker, who defended Garnett's last shot, did indeed shout something at his former Celtics teammate. The result has played out many times. As he starts his 17th NBA season, Garnett has compiled perhaps the most cantankerous dance card in the league.

In his younger days, Garnett engaged in his share of altercations. He's a passionate player whose intensity occasionally bubbles over. It's an integral part of his game.

It's the reason Doc Rivers is so loathe to reign in the player who remains the soul of his defense.

And as evidenced by his Christmas scrap with Walker, Garnett has turned his rage on the NBA's next generation. Perhaps it's frustration from his own advancing age and receding ability, but the bulk of Garnett's most recent beefs have been with young players."