The blockbuster trade that we discussed yesterday is now in the books:
The Celtics acquired Garnett, a 10-time All-Star and the NBA MVP in 2004, from Minnesota in exchange for Al Jefferson, Ryan Gomes, Gerald Green, Theo Ratliff, Sebastian Telfair, a 2009 first-round draft pick and a return of Minnesota’s conditional first-round pick previously obtained in the Ricky Davis-Wally Szczerbiak trade.
The Celtics, now with three hungry vets looking for rings (Garnett, Paul Pierce and Ray Allen), quickly become a legimate contender in the East. Minnesota will add Al Jefferson (as well as Gerald Green and Ryan Gomes) to a core group that also includes Randy Foye and Corey Brewer. The ‘Wolves are clearly in full rebuilding mode.
But back to the C’s, who definitely got the better end of the deal in the short term. As part of the trade, KG agreed to a three-year extension which will keep him in Boston through the 2011-12 season.
Garnett in green? This is going to be fun to watch.
(Kobe has to be pissed.)
I think KG is one of the hardest working players – at both ends of the court – in the league. I hope for his and the teams’ sake that the Celtics can be competitive next year and beyond.
For a classy, hard working guy like KG and such a storied organization like Boston to not make the postseason consistently is bad for basketball in my opinion.
If they can get at least decent play out of the PG and C positions, they should contend in the East. Tony Allen is a talented guard who is coming back from knee surgery. If he can get healthy, he can anchor the bench.
The roster was decimated by the trade – Danny Ainge still has work to do to fill it out with capable players. Net summer, expect a good vet to take a pay cut to come play in Boston. It’s possible (though unlikely) that someone like Baron Davis or Jermaine O’Neal would be willing to opt-out to play for the C’s and chase a ring. Boston is way over the cap, so they won’t be able to offer much money for the foreseeable future.
John,
I am afraid I cannot agree with you at all. Please note that Paul Pierce and Ray Allen are not young. I think Pierce was able to play 45 games last season. At least you are saying only that they will contend, while some Boston fans are talking about walking away with the eastern title.
KG is great, no question, but you said it yourself they are way over the cap for the foreseeable future. By the time they can pay anyone else of value to come to Boston what kind of shape will Pierce and Allen be in, and possibly KG.
I would remind you that Miami still has O’Neal and Wade. Detroit is still formidable and Chicago is building a very strong team. I only suggest that the Celtic fans might temper their enthusiasm over these three players. I know things have been tough for them for many years, but I don’t see this is the cavalry riding to the rescue. But, we shall see.