Kevin Garnett showed in these playoffs — and in this season — that there is something left in his tank. Actually, fuel left in the tank was never the question with Garnett, because the guy’s passion for the game (and rage at anyone standing in his way) seems limitless. Coming into the season there were questions about KG, questions about whether his body could hold up? About whether he could still contribute?
The answers were yes and yes. Now, the question is, does he want to continue?
The Celtics have hinted they want him back. Not at the $21 million he made last season, but half that and a two-year deal might work for them. The playoffs made clear that on the court, the Celtics need him.
But the real question is, does he want to continue? That is what people close to him wonder. From ESPNBoston:Garnett’s trusted friend Sam Cassell said KG was still talking about retiring as recently as 10 days ago, but Cassell was trying to persuade him otherwise. Cassel’s advice: Play as long as you can.
“KG is a loyal guy,” Cassell said. “I can’t see him playing for anyone else except Doc at this point.”
A. Sherrod Blakely of CSNNE.com agrees that he thinks KG will walk unless the Celtics takes steps to lessen the load on him.
Although other teams are interested, I just can’t see KG playing anywhere else. And after this season, where they got within one game of the NBA finals, it’s hard to see him walking away. He has that drive and the team came so close. But I think Blakely hit the nail on the head on two counts. First, he’s not going to come back if he doesn’t think the Celtics are not contenders.
Secondly, expect it to be a while before he decides.