This week’s C’s timeline

Today, vs. Brooklyn,

5:30 p.m. — Just before ringing in the new year, the Celtics will have to wring out their sweaty uniforms with a final basketball toast to 2017. The Nets present a far greater challenge than recent editions, which could make this an entertaining end to the calendar year. Among the changes in 2017 was that Celts fans no longer have to root against Brooklyn. With the last of the first-round picks from the Paul Pierce-Kevin Garnett deal sent to Cleveland for Kyrie Irving, the Nets' fortunes are not a critical part of the Celtics future. Wednesday, vs. Cleveland, 8 p.m. — Did somebody say challenge? The Cavs proved last season that when you're as good as they are, regular-season records and seeding mean little. They are still the mountain the Celts must climb. And in a side

story that could steal the show, Isaiah Thomas may be able to make his return to Boston as an active participant. Friday, vs. Minnesota,

7 p.m. — This game was switched from a later start time to accommodate national television. The Wolves are a formidable pack, but they have had a few bad losses that give some pause. In other words, they're still working on getting all that talent to harmonize properly. Saturday, at Brooklyn, 6 p.m. — This is the C's last game before heading off to London to face the 76ers Jan. 11. After a busy early schedule to accommodate their desire for space around that game (four days off on either side), the C's will now get to catch their breath and get into a better routine that will even include some practice time.