He's Back, Kevin Garnett Ready to Lead Boston Celtics Back to NBA Finals

Kevin Garnett, the heart and soul of the Boston Celtics, is back and ready to lead the C's to the NBA Finals. When Garnett came over from Minnesota he brought not only his talent, but his passion. The Celtics have one of the most talented teams in the NBA, but when Garnett was lost to injury last year, Boston wasn't the same team, they lacked energy, and hunger.

What also hurt Boston last year, apart from the obvious, injuries, was the lack of production they received from their bench. This year, Boston has added pieces to address that problem. Marquis Daniels comes over from the Pacers, and the always exciting Rasheed Wallace joins the Celtics from the Pistons.

Rasheed will give the Celtics a toughness, if he can stay on the court, and out of technical foul trouble. Daniels will provide an upgrade at the back up point guard position, letting House play more shooting guard, but much of Boston's success will depend on the play of their young starting point guard, Rondo. During the off-season there was talk off the Celtics trading Rondo. Apparently Danny Ainge, the Celtics GM, questioned if Rondo was ready and mature enough to lead the Celtics. Satisfied that their young point guard can be a leader, Rondo begins the season as the floor general of this talented Celtics team.

This year will be an even bigger test for Rondo. He has a team full of talent at his disposal, but with one ball, he has to keep everyone involved in the offense, and happy. With the possibility of entering free agency at the end of this season, Rondo will be a motivated player this year, which should bode well for the C's.

With a restocked bench, a healthy KG, and a returning Pierce and Allen, the Celtics look poised to battle for the Eastern Conference title. The Orlando Magic are the defending East Champions, and will also be looking to get back to the Finals. The Cleveland Cavaliers have added Shaquille Oneal to give them a much needed big man. The East will probably turn into a three team race by the end of the season, baring injuries to either team. The Celtics have the talent to match up well against the Magic and Cavaliers, and it's going to be a treat for basketball fans when these teams face each other.

Sources:

http://www.boston.com/sports/basketball/celtics/extras/celtics_blog/2009/06/ainge_critical.html