Garnett’s Project: Restoration

Kevin Garnett was the next never. Patrick Ewing, Tony Gwynn, and Dan Marino were nevers. They starred. They personified a city. They never won championships. For a dozen seasons, Garnett sparkled. He captivated Minneapolis. He never won. Unlike Ewing, Gwynn, and Marino, he never accrued a conference championship.

On Tuesday, the Minnesota Timberwolves traded Garnett and a first round selection (2009) to the Boston Celtics. As reciprocation, the Timberwolves received Ryan Gomes (forward), Gerald Green (forward), Al Jefferson (forward), Theo Ratliff (center), Sebastian Telfair (guard), two first round selections (2008 & 2009), and cash considerations. Upon his Boston arrival, Garnett signed a 3-year, $51 million contract.

The swap left Minnesota General Manager Kevin McHale reflective. “The past few seasons our on-court performance has been disappointing to our fans, myself, [owner] Glen Taylor and the entire organization,” McHale said. “Through this trade, we have obtained very talented, young players with a lot of potential, future flexibility with the salary cap and two future first-round NBA draft picks. Personally, I want to thank Kevin for all of his hard work through the years and what he has meant to the Timberwolves franchise.”

During his career, Garnett has registered 20.5 points, 11.4 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per contest. He has tallied three twenty-four-plus point seasons. He has also logged seven consecutive ten-plus rebound seasons. Garnett has been All-NBA and All-Defensive on eight occasions.

From 1957-1986, the Celtics garnered sixteen championships. They also scored eight conference and twenty-one division titles. Sadly, this tradition has dilapidated. Since Len Bias’ death, the Celtics have posted an 802-806 record. Amidst this, the Celtics have chalked only one conference and five division titles.

Purportedly, the Western Conference dwarfs the East. Allegedly, Garnett is an equalizer. Unfortunately, the aforesaid is imaginary. Since 1980-1981, the Eastern Conference has accrued fourteen championships. The Western Conference has captured thirteen. True, the West has ensnared seven of nine. However, they once lost twelve of eighteen.

The Celtics are a fabled franchise. Garnett is a warrior. His presence will not guarantee titles. However, his attitude surmises the obvious. “This is probably my best opportunity at winning a ring,” he said.

Kevin, you are the Celtics best hope also.