(Sports Network) - The Boston Celtics attempt to put the brakes on a season- worst two-game losing streak, as they welcome the Portland Trail Blazers tonight to TD Banknorth Garden.

Caron Butler poured in 21 points and scored seven in the final minute to help Washington beat Boston, 88-83, and hand the Celtics their first losing streak of the season on Monday at TD Banknorth Garden.

Kevin Garnett finished with 23 points and nine rebounds for Boston, which has lost just six games this season (30-6). Paul Pierce netted 18 points, while Ray Allen scored 16 for Boston, which has lost three of its last four games overall.

On the injury front for Boston, point guard Rajon Rondo (sore back/right hamstring) is questionable for Thursday. Rondo is averaging 9.0 points and 4.8 assists per game this season.

Boston, which plays the middle contest of a three-game homestand, is 16-3 at home this season. The Celtics will host the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday in the finale of the current stand.

Portland plays the third of a seven-game road trip. The Trail Blazers are 1-1 on the swing. LaMarcus Aldridge posted 20 points and seven rebounds to lead Portland past the New Jersey Nets, 99-73, at the Izod Center.

Brandon Roy registered 16 points in the win, while Jarrett Jack totaled 15 points and seven assists for Portland, which has won five of six and 18 of its last 20 games overall.

The Trail Blazers are 6-11 on the road this season. They will also visit Miami, Orlando, Atlanta and New Orleans on the swing.

This is the first of two meetings between the clubs this season. Portland will host the Celtics on February 24th at the Rose Garden.

The Celtics have won four in a row in the series. These two teams have split the last 10 meetings at Boston.

Last updated: January 16, 2008 at 10:48 AM

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