Kevin Garnett, who in 12 seasons with the Timberwolves never played for an NBA finals team, now finds himself within reach of a second world championship in three years as a member of the Boston Celtics. His team is in Los Angeles tonight for game one of the finals against the Lakers.
For Garnett, there’s more than another ring in the offering. His legacy can be enhanced, too.
At 33, Garnett’s career is far closer to the finish than the beginning. Except for 24-year-old point guard Rajon Rondo, Boston’s best players are “geezers” like Garnett, guard Ray Allen, 34, and forward Paul Pierce, 32. Even 6-11 long distance shooting sub Rasheed Wallace is an NBA old timer at 35.
This Celtics team is built to win in June, 2010, not a year or two from now. Garnett, Pierce and Allen could move into fast company among Celtics legends by winning a second championship in three years.
Boston won three world titles in the 1980s with Larry Bird, Kevin McHale and Robert Parish. In the 1970’s Dave Cowens and John Havlicek led two NBA title teams. And in the 1950’s and 1960’s basketball’s ultimate winner, Bill Russell, teamed with players like Bob Cousy, Tommy Heinsohn, Sam Jones and Havlicek to win 10 championships.
A title in 2010 will enhance how Garnett is remembered among the game’s great players. Winning championships commands attention, provides a personal showcase and builds the most favorable of reputations.
For Garnett, the seven game world championship series is an ideal stage. The 6-11 power forward has no attribute that sets him apart from basketball’s greatest players. Instead, he’s a master of many skills, a superstar who brings to almost every game 20 points and 11 rebounds, plus timely passes and blocks.
But there’s more. He also arrives at work with a scowl, with a focus on defense and determination to win. His resolve to keep opponents from scoring and teammates in check helped produce a title two years ago, according to basketball writer Bill Simmons.