How much is too much?
Kendrick Perkins leads the NBA in technical fouls. He has nine, or as many in 24 games this year as he accrued all last season. Two teammates (Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce) have three apiece, putting three members of the defending champs among the top 10 involuntary contributors to David Stern’s coffers. Sam Cassell has two technicals and one ejection. The next minute he plays this season will be his first.
They’re not alone. Their coach, Doc Rivers, is tied with Charlotte’s Larry Brown among coaches who have been whistled for the most technical fouls: each has four. (The numbers are based on information from the NBA and are through Dec. 4).
But as much as the Celtics are piling up technicals at a somewhat alarming rate – particularly for the combustible Perkins – there’s also been at least two instances this season where the always voluble, demonstrative Garnett seemed to be taunting or egging on an opponent – in other words, on the verge of a technical - and came away unscathed.
The first was when he clapped at the Raptors’ Jose Calderon all the way up the court in a Nov. 10 game in Boston. Nothing happened, save for some spirited jawing, of which Garnett is the undisputed league champion. The other came Dec. 5 in a nationally televised game against Portland, in which he got down on all fours in front of Blazers’ rookie Jerryd Bayless as Bayless began to bring the ball up the floor with just under five minutes remaining in the game.
“I have never seen anything like that before in my life,’’ said the ESPN analyst for the game, former NBA player Mark Jackson.
Actually, Garnett has done it before. More than once. Rivers admitted that if Garnett had tried to do that to him when he was playing, “I would have run him over. Legally of course.”
But now that he coaches the defending Defensive Player of the Year, he sees it as well, veteran exuberance, which should be applauded, not criticized.
And certainly not penalized.
“He does it all the time,’’ Rivers said of Garnett going to the floor on all fours. “And I bet he doesn’t even know it half the time because he gets so caught up in the game. But I look at that and say, ‘isn’t that great?’
“One referee said to me, ‘you better watch Kevin.’ And I said, ‘no, you guys should watch Kevin - and tell the rest of the league to do it.’ Wouldn’t every coach want their guy to get down low on defense, pound his hands on the floor, and be so into the game? When Duke does it, everyone starts clapping. When Kevin does it, people want to give him a tech. He’s so wrapped up in the game. I don’t have a problem with it.”’
The officials didn’t either, at least not in those two instances. Rivers said he thinks it’s because the officials can hear what the fans can’t hear.
“The reason I think a lot of the officials don’t T up Kevin is that it’s not a personal thing with him,’’ Rivers said of Garnett. “Heck, half the time, he’s talking to himself. They hear what Kevin is saying and they know it doesn’t lead to anything. With others, it’s more direct and personal. He has done that his whole career.”
And Garnett is indiscriminate. He barked at teammate Glen Davis in that same Portland game, so much so that Davis retreated to the end of the bench and put a towel over his face. Garnett had not been happy that the Celtics reserves had let Portland back into the game, necessitating the return of the starters (and the down-on-all-fours move against Bayless).
Nonetheless, Garnett’s in-your-face style – and the Celtics’ new hubris – have made them unappealing to many others around the league. That’s being charitable. The Blazers’ Channing Frye told the Oregonian, “the Celtics – they irritate everybody.” But, he quickly added, the Celtics also can afford to be arrogant because they have what 29 other teams want.
And that fact, Rivers thinks, is why there is more attention on his players (and himself). He noted that Garnett hasn’t morphed into this personality since coming to Boston. It’s just that it’s more noticed because the Celtics are the defending NBA champs and on every team’s hit list this season.
“Our games are on more of an edge than most games,’’ Rivers said. “We’re the champions. Teams are really going after us, not just physically, but verbally and emotionally as well.”
Perkins, so far, has been most penalized of the defending champs. In the NBA most recently compiled NBA statistics, Perkins had three more technicals than anyone else in the league. And Rivers, who had only seven technicals last season, is more than halfway to that number with more than two-thirds of the season left to be played.
The coach defended Perkins, his big, physical, center.
“In Perk’s case, I think up to five techs have been double techs,’’ Rivers said. “That’s where I have a problem. I wish the refs would do their jobs better. They know who instigated it. They know who was talking. Give him the tech. The easy way out is to placate both coaches by handing out double techs. I’ve always thought that’s the lazy way of doing it. And I’ll bet that seven out of 10 times, they know who perpetrated it.”
Rivers is concerned that Perkins might get too close to the Rasheed Line, where a technical foul would result in an automatic one-game suspension. But he’s a bit away from that number yet (16) although there are still a lot of games to be played.
“Perk has to be careful because I’m sure he’s a targeted guy,’’ Rivers said.
The Celtics expected everyone’s ‘A’ Game when the season started. That goes with the territory of being the defending champion. In their first 24 games, they won 22 of them. So, in their view, whatever Perkins and Garnett are doing, it doesn’t seem to have had much impact in the standings.
And at the end of the day, that is what matters to them.
chuki Said,
December 15, 2008 @ 7:36 pm
Garnett is just a clown
michael espinoza Said,
December 15, 2008 @ 7:57 pm
amazing, what a bunch of idiots, classless idiots! they win one ring and next thing you know they go psycho! you never see the spurs doing that, and why is it that only when they’re winning does all this clown acting go on? that’s like female tennis players and their grunting, if you’re going to grunt do it all the time not only at certain point of a tennis match, if the celtics are going to act like fools they should be acting a fool all of the time, well i guess they are. i guess the celtics are proof positive that success can change you in the wrong way. when they burn themselves out right after the allstar break is over i hope they still act all stupid when they go on a losing streak. it’s pretty pathetic when the coach and players have to stroke their own ego’s to let themselves and everyone know that they’re the champs. if you have to hype yourself up just to play a basketball game then somethings really wrong! i guess this is the reason why the san antonio spurs are always voted as the best professional franchise and franchise to model a sports franchise after. take notes c’s cause once the fame is gone all you’ll be left with is a barking fool on all four’s and a bunch of whiners! kind of reminds me of the wavwrecks and sunflowers!
Patrick Said,
December 15, 2008 @ 8:04 pm
Well said. I can’t stand the Celtics (I’m a Laker fan), but it’s hard to argue with their results. While I can’t stand Pierce or Garnett, it’s hard not to respect them because they play the way I wish many of the Lakers would.
chotadaku Said,
December 15, 2008 @ 8:21 pm
KG WILL ALWAYS BE KG, A WHOLE-HEARTED BALLER. I’m from Toronto and I wish Chris Bosh can morph into a KG type, high-intensity baller. KG getting down on all fours to guard little men is truly what all versatile fowards need to be doing. I saw that game and Jose Calderon was under some serious pressure. It is KG’s high intensity that rubs off on the rest of the C’s. Paul Pierce has become a serious defender thanks to KG. NBA ballers are soft and the moment, they need to match KG’S level of intensity. If the LAKERS wana beat the C’s they gotta find some toughness.
Stuckey Said,
December 15, 2008 @ 9:42 pm
Go Lakers!
Arnav Said,
December 15, 2008 @ 10:59 pm
As a knicks fan, i think the celtics are overdoing
i love kg but he’s starting to go overboard
HOWEVER, kg’s manic and in your face style got the C’s a championship and have them playing great ball
so for them why should they stop?
THE PHENOM Said,
December 15, 2008 @ 11:12 pm
C’S UP KG IS THE MAN BETTER THAN KOBE KG IS A MORE COMPLTE PLAYER THAN KOBE—IM SORRY THE GUY WAS ALL ABOUT HIMSELF TILL OF LATER THATS WHY THE LAKERS NEVER WON LAST YEAR HE FORCED SHOT AND EVERYTHING WHEN HE HAD ODOM AND GASOL WHO CAN BOTH PLAY
JohnJohnSaidIt Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 12:32 am
Here the truth, the Celtics are all talk just like their leader Kevin Garnett. Unfortunately, most NBA players are too soft to test him.
Basically they have a lot of bark, and no bite…all it takes is one person to hit Garnett (legally or illegally) and then we will see how tough the Celtics really are.
John-John
JohnJohnSaidIt
Michael Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 2:12 am
woot woot! lakers!
George Hill Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 2:19 am
Spurs 08-09 NBA Champions!!
Siz33 Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 2:53 am
Garnett is classless trash. Give me Duncan any day.
jason Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 5:44 am
Go Thunders, GO!
Zane Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 6:32 am
Whatever gets the job done. Celts are winning so they should do whatever they need to fire them up… as long as it’s within the rules, it’s all good.
Levy Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 7:27 am
KG has always been KG and the exposure playing in Minn doesn’t get the same coverage as a world champion Celtic coverage. He’s not doing anything he has done his whole career - Keep it up KG!
Angel Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 8:09 am
If Rasheed does what the Celtics are doing…..he will not play NBA anymore……
simmsimma Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 8:19 am
I’m not saying whether it is right or wrong, mainly because I’m a Celtics fan. So obviously I love how in your face they are, but if it was another team, I’d probably hate them too.
My only defense for them is this. They aren’t doing anything different. Rivers is telling the truth when he says Garnett has done it before. Several times. I’m here to tell you as a Celtics fan who’s watched almost every game the past 2 seasons, there isn’t much difference in how they go about the game. The only noticeable difference is the bench now that they have Sam Cassell from the beginning of the season on the bench trying to get in opponents heads. Garnett slams his chest and drops F-bombs whether they are up by 20, down by 20, if he’s at the elbow, down low, free throw line, doesn’t matter. It’s just what he does. It’s how he stays going at 110% for 100+ games a year. So right or wrong, the league (and league fans) can’t try saying they oh they are league champs and they get all talkative. It has nothing to do with the ring. They talked before the ring. If they don’t win it all this year (though, you must admit, they have at least a 50% chance of doing so), they’ll be back next year doing the same thing regardless. It isn’t new. It’s who they are. And as my hometown team, I love it.
clemsam Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 9:18 am
Thank you, simmsimma. People think this just started because they are just now watching the Celtics. They were doing this stuff long before they ever got the rings. Honestly I wish many fans could have their teams play with this much passion, energy, and heart (Spurs fans, you probably have no idea what I’m talking about right now. I’m sorry.) because it is so good for the game and really fun to watch. Many people say they like watching NCAA BBall more because they see more passion to play without the big $$$, and now that we’re seeing that in the NBA people complain? Complain about a team that puts defense first, and truly understands what the word “team” means, and bleeds the game, and some people are complaining? I’ll tell you what, please don’t waste your time complaining that the Celtics “win a ring and then go psycho” because anybody who really follows the game knows that this has been going on for some time. Don’t hate. APPRECIATE.
Jon Stewart Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 10:00 am
Garnett is a Punk (always has been). Before winning a ring last year (with help of course), Pierce has always been a clown too… Allen has been the only one with some class going back to his Milwaukee days.
It is amazing that these guys will play their whole career and do nothing but play me ball and get their stats and then suddenly win once and consider themselves the best players or people on the planet. No wonder the kids coming up play the game the way they do. Look at who their role models are. Just pathetic. Basketball just isn’t a fun sport to watch anymore…
JDub Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 10:25 am
I don’t see why we’re all confused on the KG/celtic energy here. They’re trying to put together the Celtic pride from the old days…which also in those days, in the entire league, was dirtier play. I wish I knew Barkley’s or Magic’s view on this, b/c they both have been ones to defend the dirtier part of the game, saying that it comes with the territory. I understand this being a team game, but I’ve always hated the technical for “taunting” when a player stares down another after dunking on him(Dwade) It’s part of the game. And KG has always been crazy like this, but this time he’s got a team to put up the numbers and W’s. Refs can be bi est sometimes(especially with Kobe/Lebron) but it only happens in some games, not 25 in a row. The Celts are winning so all you non-Celt fans can get over it, and stop looking so far into the Champs.
Kurios Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 11:15 am
This might be early evidence of KG going off the deep end mentally. That intensity, unorthodox mannerisms, indescrimitate explosions of emotion to friends and opponents alike. It could be a foretelling of a future tragedy. And if his mind breaks, a man like KG could be really dangerous. Just a thought.
I never thought i’d ever say that Paul Pierce was the coolest guy on that team…
Michael Bennett Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 11:15 am
I can’t believe KG is being criticized for anything he does on court. His crazy intesity is what brought them a ring last year.
If he acts like fool on court, GREAT! He’s the champ, he’s leading his team to a league best 22-2 record, and it’s looking like he’ll win his 2nd in a row.
How dare any of you fat a$$ couch potatoes question the heart of a champion?
…and this is coming from someone who’s a Bulls and Cavs fan.
jubei Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 11:31 am
Humility is a dish best served with a huge audience.
Its cool to be proud of your team, Proud of your accomplishments, but remembering your not the first and you wont be the last and you will fall sooner or later, and the higher you put yourself up, the farther you fall. in this forum.
In sports it does not pay to be too cocky because when you get burned badly, and you will, people laugh louder.
Boozebag Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 11:52 am
KG is a piece of garbage. i respect his skill as a player but the crap he pulls out there is ridiculous. Bayless should have kicked him in the mouth. He plays this BS “intensity” card all the time. if Artest did what KG does, he’d not only get T’d up but fined and suspended. But no, the league looks the other way for Garnett. David Stern needs to hurry up and die.
Chris Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 12:51 pm
To all the KG supporters answer me this question…
Why does KG only act tough with the little guys? Calderon? Bayless? I mean real tough KG…Why doesnt he get in Artests, Shaqs, Kobes face like that? I would respect him alot more if he did it to anyone and everyone but im willing to bet if he got in Artests face clapping like he did Calderon Ronny would knowck his a@@ to the ground!
tdiggs Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 1:10 pm
All these Laker and Knicks fans…sigh…
I must admit I love the jealousy.
So the Celtics play intense and that’s what motivates them. At the end of the day it’s all about how many banners are up there and Boston has the most in the league. So hush.
Cengiz Tekin Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 1:37 pm
I think Garnett crosses the line and is often unsportsmanlike. You are supposed to respect your opponent.
That being said, the best way to handle this kind of stuff is to beat their butts in the court, and instead of taunting and chest thumping like they do, act like you have won before. Have a little class.
And Doc Rivers saying that the referees should figure out who is the instigator?? Puhlease Doc! Tell your players to behave. The refs have a hard enough time calling the game. Telling your hotheaded players to behave is your job.
One day, and I really hope this season, these guys are going to get a rude awakening. And all of these antics are going to contribute to the strong sense of defeat they will have.
JayLuv Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 1:43 pm
Can someone please give my man Phenom a grammar and spelling lesson. I bet you Kobe AND Garnett could kill him in a game of Scrabble…
Mariano Raimirez Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 2:10 pm
Dont respect the Celtics or KG’s title why, well if you remember KG Was with the Timberpups and always faced the Lakers and Shaq and could never win even when he had a better team 2003! Remember that? KG could not win, but all of a sudden he gets partnered with two other HOF’s and bam he gets a title, I wouldn’t feel right. KG is a big man he should be able to carry a team but to me he needs to play like Ben Wallace to get a title and not be the go to guy a la Shaq from 2000,2001,2002. Sorry KG but your a fool that needs way to much support for your ability and size. The C’s will fizzle out anyways—)anything is uh possible—-what a jerk!
Cavs rule Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 2:22 pm
alot of you sound like women scorned…LOL… get over it. if they’re all talk why doesnt someone do sumthin about it??? in the words of the immortal Rick Flair, “To be the Man, U have to beat the Man” and right now KG is the man.. BTW….Lebron got next!!! this has been a Cleveland PSA
RosalieT Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 2:25 pm
Isn’t it funny, all these complaints are coming from losers. If you asked any coach in the NBA they would love for their star to be as die hard as
KG. See you all in June, when #18 hangs from the rafters. Don’t they say
“Everyone is different????????????????????????
fanning Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 2:35 pm
KG has done this getting on all fours thing before it pumps up the team and the def. everyone should stop bitching because we are winning and the best in the NBA by leaps and bonds. everyone should stop crying repeat!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
fanning Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 2:38 pm
BEST IN THE WORLD REPEAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
GET OVER IT THE BEST STARTING FIVE AND BENCH IN THE LEAGUE
fanning Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 2:40 pm
80-2????????????????????
i think soooo
simmsimma Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 3:42 pm
Chris… way to steal that from ESPN. Try having an original thought. And you stole it and still got the point wrong. They weren’t complaining he does it to little people in stature. He does it to little known guys. He also does it to guys like Pachulia and Bogut. Hell, they should be thankful for the free publicity. Hell, I fail to see how clapping in a guys face is disrespectful. It’s a simple taunt to get you mad and make a mistake. Just like Mutombo waves his finger and says don’t try that again. That way you go back at him and he has a chance to block you again, plus it throws your teams offense out of its flow when it’s one-on-one.
Ever think the reason he does it to the little known guys is because he knows it works against them? The other great players, aka guys in the league for years who have played him before, know what he is all about. He doesn’t act that way towards them because he knows he won’t get in their head that way. He hugs them before all the games, especially Sheed another high intensity (though completely different intensity) player. He does it against lesser players to psych them out. People here say “oh I woulda kicked him in the face” but chances are better if KG started getting on all fours yelling in your face you’d crap your pants before you kicked him in the face.
KG intentionally instigates you into wanting you to take him one-on-one. And then either the defending Defensive Player of the Year will D you up, or he’ll push you into help defense and you’ll be smothered by Perkins or Rondo will sneak up behind you and poke the ball out. If you were watching, it’s what the Celtics do all game. And until teams understand it and pick up on it, it’ll keep working. But everyone would rather complain the Celtics talk to much and start talking back. Ever seen someone throw a punch at KG or any other Celtic. No. Because 3/4’s of the NBA is soft now and the other 1/4 know that throwing a punch that doesn’t even make contact gets you a 3 game suspension, forget if you actually get in a fight.
Chris Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 3:58 pm
simmsimma
Obviousely youre a KG supporter and thats your right. I didnt steal my thought from anybody. I see it all the time with my own eyes. I think KG is a great player and respect his talents. But like i said calderon? bayless? and yeah even bogut and Pachulia….Thats like the bully in high school picking on the geeks and nerds and not doing it to people on his level. Jordan would trash talk to Bird, Isaih, Miller, Starks..Whoever….Thats the definition of intimidation..Not by picking on people you know will do nothing in return..Oh yeah i remember he tried to pull something with Anthony Peeler and when peeler socked him in his jaw he back peddled like Carmelo….Great Player? Yeah….Fake Toughness? Definately!
Nastase Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 4:06 pm
garnett is just stupid ass clown. stupid nigger he’s a punk ass player that picks on guys smaller than that he can easily intimidate. otherwise he’s a bitch if someone else gets back in his face. i remember mcdyess once got in face and garnett scampered and ran behind the refs. what a biatch! go to hell garnett ur a piece of shit and a choke
IVSPORT Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 4:30 pm
The Paul Pierce IPO was finally released on the new website http://www.oneseason.com. Now Pierce is trading alongside other major sports stars on the virtual jock stock market, where you can earn real money based on your skilled trading.
Jorge Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 4:37 pm
For all the haters just anwser me this one.
Would you want KG on your team right now, yes or no??
Jesus Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 7:08 pm
Gotta love all these jealous cats!!!
Keep hating on the champs, at least a few people on here (Even Laker fans) admit they wished their team played this way.
Keep hating on us, we love the hate, you’ll do anything to tear us down, but you can’t, we’re heading toward history, you can either be a good sport and applaud that, or be a sore loser and tear us down everyday.
The Green for 18
Baller Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 7:41 pm
All of these bitter folks are hating on KG??? You guys are pitiful. Mainly a bunch of Lakers fans who are mad because Kobe hasn’t won a ring since Shaq. So instead they bash KG and the Celtics.
Michael Bennett Said,
December 16, 2008 @ 10:22 pm
Nastase - You’d get your a$$ kicked by anyone on this blog you racist scumbag. Go back to your backwood Klan meeting and die off soon. The world is beyond you.
alann Said,
December 17, 2008 @ 12:55 am
kg’s been like that his whole career, why talk about it now?!
With the wolves he’s fiery, with the celts he’s classless? Makes no sense.
Vegas Dave Said,
December 17, 2008 @ 3:41 am
I’m a Suns fan - I’m glad my team does not behave this way.
Mutombo waves a finger and gets a T. Sheed stares at a ref and gets a T. Garnett, nothing. How did he look when Pachulia faced him down last year? Like a punk.
A punk who finally found teammates to take and make bigs shots in the 4th Quarter. If Shaq does nothing else for the Suns, and he does little enough, I hope he breaks KGs ribs.
Jax Said,
December 17, 2008 @ 7:00 am
The problem is not with the Celtics. Some guys really are just “pussy.” What if it is true that they taunt, they talk trash and everything unpleasant and unimaginable? They’re the champs, they’ve got the license to… and look at their team record, they’re at the top of the league.
If people can’t beat them, they make up stories like such. Which is to my mind, BS! If you can’t handle their talking trash, then beat them and shut them up. If you can’t handle the taunting and the trash, then quit playing basketball and go home - play chess!
It’s part of the game, always have been and always will be! People talk trash because they’re so into the game, they’re very hyped and pumped up. If you get irritated by such, then they’ve been successful. You are intimidated, intimidates… can’t and won’t be able to play your usual game. Every player and fan of basketball must know this.
P.S. i’m no Boston fan, but i think what the Celtics are doing - is fine!
perkisabeast.com Blog » Blog Archive » The Throwback Said,
December 17, 2008 @ 8:57 am
[...] Doc Rivers [...]
Cash Generator Team Said,
December 17, 2008 @ 3:20 pm
I’m a Laker Fan!!!
But you have to give it up to KG. He work so hard to win that ring. I never seen a NBA player other than MJ with so much passion about winning. He is really focus and exerting the energy that is needed to take his team to the next level. I hope the Lakers beat the Celtics on the 12-25-08..
KG is one hell of a player he should went to the Lakers..
We buy Houses!!!
http://www.easysellyourhouse.com
Nora Said,
December 17, 2008 @ 3:39 pm
Hey John, all talk with a ring! Remember that. The idiots are those who go on and on about it while their own team has moved on from the incident.
Kmart Said,
December 17, 2008 @ 4:48 pm
First of all let me just say that KG is a great player probably HOF and they won last year but these things really justify acting like an ass? I mean sure KG is a hyped up player is has allways been the “bark-at-the-moon-chest-bumping” typ of player, and people say “well back in the nba was much dirtier and tougher.” But have you ever seen Magic getting down on alla fours? No how about Jordan? I know I sound negative but what Im trying to say is that things have changed. Im not sure I like it but like some other guys stated a player like garnett is loved by his fans and hated by everyone else, so the bottom line is sure I personally don´t like this to unsporting ways but hey they won a championship so why change a winning concept?
ld Said,
December 17, 2008 @ 4:59 pm
It is over the line. Celts fans had a cow when Horford was celebrating, now it’s ok? Personally, I don’t care but some of the stuff K.G. is doing just screams immature. And K.G.’s “intensity” is very selective as he’ll only do it when he’s sure he can get the upper hand. Regardless, you would expect a little class since the leaders on that team have been wallowing in mediocrity since coming into the league. All this “greatness” and “intensity” could barely get either anywhere but an All-Star team. Compare that to what say Lebron has done with the same. Best player in the world got his team how many wins the previous years? Most intense and talented player got out of the first round how many times? Now that they’ve pulled strings and won, they’re the best thing ever. From the sign throwing, to the remarks at the LA awards, to Pierce’s remarks about being the best, to K.G.s latest antics. All the time, they would have you believe that they’re just being mis-read.
ld Said,
December 17, 2008 @ 5:08 pm
Also what’s funny is how Doc defends the actions by saying “he does it all the time” ………… And? Sheed does it “all the time” too. Guess if someone fouls/travels all the time too, you’ll let more slide? The NBA just needs to get off it’s tail and enforce it’s rules. That’s part of the reason it’s getting the wrestling award for realism. And why there’s these type of posts about their elite guys like Garnett/Wade/Lebron. Garnett’s not the only intense player in the league, but he is the only old dude trying to get under the skin of a bench-warming rookie.
Michael Bennett Said,
December 17, 2008 @ 5:12 pm
KG doing that sparks his game. “Whatever gets you through the night…” - John Lennon. If that’s what he needs, so be it. He finds his edge.
MJ would do it a different way. LeBron’s fuel is opposing fans jawing. Kobe thrives on grit. Not every champion is the same. But, they all have unparalleled drive and passion.
KG isn’t going over the line BECAUSE THERE IS NO LINE. You can’t talk about class in today’s game. People used to think tattoos weren’t “classy”. When tattoos became the norm, it became a non-issue.
You may disagree with KG’s antics. You may think it hurts the game. But, you’re wrong. And, KG is a champ. You’re not.
ld Said,
December 17, 2008 @ 5:37 pm
Why is everything is justified by winning? I’d bet not one person here has won an NBA ’ship. BTW - K.G.’s won ONCE. So one year of success doing this crap all of a sudden outweighs how many years of failure? How many times has he even been passed the first round of the playoffs? Point being, where was the effectiveness of this “intensity” before finding himself on a stacked team?
And there is a line. It’s call rules. This isn’t about body art, this is about a game that has rules and regulations. Guys are getting T’s for laughing, clapping, yelling, hanging on the rim. The fact that the NBA enforces these rules at it’s leisure is what makes for these posts. Had K.G. gotten a T, this would be a non-issue. But the league puts the line “**rules**” in place and he is crossing them. Just like we may not agree with Sheed’s mouth, but he get’s penalized for it. That FAIR!! And as long as the league allows him to taunt, and other players to do whatever then be prepared to have people challenge it.
Michael Bennett Said,
December 17, 2008 @ 6:27 pm
Yeah, KG hasn’t done anything in his career…
KEVIN GARNETT CAREER STATS
- 20.3 ppg, 11.2 rpg, 4.4 apg, 1.4 spg, 1.6 bpg
- 11X All-Star
- 2004 NBA MVP
- 2008 NBA Defensive Player of the Year
- 4X All-NBA First Team
- 3X All-NBA Second Team
- 2X All-NBA Third Team
- 7X All-Defensive First Team
- 2X All-Defensive Second Team
- 2003 All-Star MVP
- NBA Champion
… are all reasons why he can do whatever he wants to on the court. And, YES - ABSOLUTELY - everything is justified by winning. That’s the point of the game - TO WIN.
He gets the benefit of the doubt because he’s arguably the best PF the game has ever seen.
Stay Classy KG Said,
December 17, 2008 @ 7:23 pm
http://video.aol.com/video-detail/garnettandmcdyess/3503603582
KG has never seen a fight he didn’t want to run away from.
mike kreutzer Said,
December 17, 2008 @ 9:16 pm
garnett has been a clown for quite some time. he can talk all the trash he wants, he couldn’t get the wolves to a championship and needed 2 all stars next to him to squeek one out.
Buc Said,
December 17, 2008 @ 11:08 pm
mike kreutzer… KG never had help with the Wolves. He got them to the playoffs 7 straight years, with Wally freaking Sczerbiak as their second best player. But in the end, no one can do it by themself.
Name a superstar that has won a ring by himself. How stupid is it for you to say Garnett never did it, and yet NO ONE has. Not Wilt Chamberlain, not Shaq, not Jordan… and these are some of the most dominant players to ever play.
And what’s this nonsense someone said about he’s on a stacked team? Their entire roster only has about 6-7 serviceable players. It isn’t like the Lakers, where they can sub 5 whole players and still be effective. That’s why the Celtics still play with that chip on their shoulder.
jmn Said,
December 17, 2008 @ 11:46 pm
garnett can behave how he wants…but that’s not the way i would want my kids to play. there’s not much seperating a sore loser from a bad winner. trash talk is one thing..but taunting and have zero self-control over your emotions? that shouldn’t be the mark of a 30+ year old man.
like someone else mentioned—jordan/bird/payton etc used to trash talk EVERYONE - the top players in the league. there’s some respect to be handed out when you pit yourself as such against your peers and superiors because you’re going to get back as much as you give. but for all his so called “intensity” and “passion” they only seem to make an appearance against lesser players!
jose calderon? really KG? let’s just hope he doesn’t get a a chance to play against earl boykins this year…..
CJ Said,
December 18, 2008 @ 1:18 am
Its really hard for me to believe most of you have even seen a T-wolves game in the past 12 years. For anyone that thinks KG has “changed” since winning the title, go do some homework on it. You will find the exact same KG as you see this season. I have seen KG do pushups in the middle of games back in minny, so get off of that cry-baby “gettin down on all fours” BS (btw, he’s done that before this season too). Why dont you go watch game 7 from the West Semis against Sacramento in 03-04 and see garnett jump on top of the scorers table after winning. Sounds like the same KG to me. And you guys just sound like a bunch of pissed off lakers fans. Its a shame any of you would complain about one of the game’s best competitors finally getting a chance to enjoy himself a little after a 12 year grind in minn.
Kurios Said,
December 18, 2008 @ 8:19 am
to anyone things Kobe is jealous of KG…just remember Kobe has THREE rings..and Garnett has one…And Garnett is only the champ because there are 3 all stars on that team…hell it was Paul Pierce that led them to that championship…Garnett did not really even show up last playoffs…its Pierce’s team. Garnett has just proven himself an unstable crazy guy. Yeah he has been a great fantasy player…but last year was the first time his team made any noise. IT IS NOT AND NEVER WAS ABOUT GARNETT! So Garnett needs to get over himself until he PROVES himself a winner. One championship on the back of a real clutch teammate does NOT make you a winner. I’ll wait for him to show up in the playoffs.
Adamantelope Said,
December 18, 2008 @ 2:31 pm
Ah life will humble him as the karma wheel turns. I like Garnett, he’s a warrior, but pride cometh before a fall.
Michael Bennett Said,
December 18, 2008 @ 4:52 pm
Adamantelope - What a load of hor$e$hit… What country do you think this is?
Rashidi Said,
December 18, 2008 @ 5:54 pm
“Ah life will humble him as the karma wheel turns. I like Garnett, he’s a warrior, but pride cometh before a fall.”
Michael Jordan had the same pride and intensity.
The Celtics are “coincidentally” chasing 72 right now. (Didn’t those same Bulls have Dennis Rodman?)
Boston Said,
December 19, 2008 @ 4:37 am
Celtics are the best and KG knows his job,same as Kendrick.
pat Said,
December 19, 2008 @ 6:28 am
I’m kind of disturbed by some comment of kg being classless, when we have people saying he should choke to death or get some broken ribs.
That’s just as classless as his swearing. Now don’t get me wrong I’m a big Celtics fan and a huge KG supporter. There has been some grunting in boston about his swearing, and feel like they shouldn’t be making a huge deal over it, cause if any of you all ever been to a Red Sox game know that kg antics are mild in comparison to what the fans do. It’s also humorous how all of sudden kg is becoming this hated player, listen if any of fans out there were given a chance to get him, you would without a heatbeat. I bet you Lakers would of loved to have KG instead Gasol. Besides, a lot of you are making judgment on a person you only see on television and don’t have the slightest clue who kg, Doc, or the Celtics team are in general.
zombie Said,
December 20, 2008 @ 10:30 am
i used to like KG, but his taunting for me is a disgrace to the game.
He’s making a fool out of himself. Did you ever see Duncan do this? No. and he has 4 rings! I’m not a hater, i believe they’re the team to beat,just show some class.
Dana Said,
December 21, 2008 @ 7:50 pm
Anyone who can say something negative about the Celtics is straight up jealous. This team plays with the intensity that any fan or coach would die for. Kevin Garnett is the epitome of someone who works his ass off and plays every possession like it’s the playoffs. This team is confident, and plays selfless basketball -the NBA is lucky to have them. Anyone who has watched their games and doesn’t see this is downright ignorant.
Sherm Said,
December 22, 2008 @ 2:02 pm
The Celtics and the BIG 3 are doing there job and doing it well. For all you people who dont know the MENTAL part of the game. Getting on all fours and hitting the floor and clapping. That is all part of the GAME for you non-HOOPERS. So let them play there game and you sit back and watch TNT……
Sean Said,
December 22, 2008 @ 2:48 pm
There is a difference between playing staunch defense and acting a d*** fool on the basketball court. If Garnett got on all fours 10 years ago (before the league was soft), he would come up with a bloody lip every time. You think guys like MJ, Oakley and Stockon would have put up with that kind of disrespect?
bill200 Said,
December 23, 2008 @ 12:04 am
I havent seen this many envious, mind numbing morons in one place for quite a while..starting with espinozam id, chris and the phenomenally stupid john john. Give it a break boys. Its all about the scoreboard. grow up and play the game…
草丛，非洲大草丛。。 » Blog Archive Said,
December 25, 2008 @ 11:53 pm
[...] fouls: each has four. (The numbers are based on information from the NBA and are through Dec. 4). Read More|||Dikembe Mutombo Is Being Courted by Doc Rivers, Ben Affleck - Consider it a case of the rich [...]
Boozebag Said,
December 31, 2008 @ 12:38 pm
3 out of 4 Celtics! nice run here! Losses to the Lakers, Warriors (in a 4th quarter meltdown) and a Roy-less Blazers team in a week’s time. As a Lakers fan, i was worried about the Celtics but after seeing them, nah. But that Lakers Cavs NBA finals should be really fun to watch. I wouldn’t mind my team losing to a competitor with a little dignity. You’d never see LeBron pulling the crap KG and Pierce do. Its only a matter of time before an NBA coach green lights a guy to cheap shot one of them. At which point, i’ll commend the guy for his “intensity”!
Scottykun Said,
January 2, 2009 @ 2:57 am
I have always disliked KG…He is a thug off the streets, and you can’t take that out of him. But, it doesn’t matter who it is, if they are out of line they should answer for it. Doc Rivers is trying to ride KG’s wave and I don’t really blame him for it, but it isn’t wise.
I’m a Jazz fan, and the Jazz have a reputation for also playing very physical…but they do it within the rules of the game. As long as Boston stays within the rules, then it’s fine…but my personal opinion of KG is that he is simply a thug. He plays hard and I like that, but no rules should be bent to accomodate his personality or style of play. The ref’s are fully within their rights to make ’statement calls’ in order to keep things straight.
junjun Said,
January 9, 2009 @ 1:25 pm
the celtics are in a slump now…do you still here KG talk smack? no.
they’re champs, right, we got it. but still have some respect for the game. you can talk trash in the court,but know the limitations. in the long run,the respect you get as a PERSON weighs more than the respect you get as an ATHLETE.
btw,im a die hard celtics fan. KG is disgracing the honor and tradition of the CELTICS with his attitude.
Butchiky Said,
January 16, 2009 @ 7:26 am
If that is the attitude of Garnett and the other guys in the Celtics Team, they should not be in this league but they should be playing in a Rugby League. Basketball is a physical game yes, but it should be a honest to goodness defense. Physical contact should be done to defend and not intimidate the more to do harm to show your superiority. A good defensive player uses a honest defense and defensive skill (unnecessary physical itimidation & verbal abused is not a skill). Doc River’s comment that Garnett has that attitude being the Champion. What will become of Garnett if he get another ring that includes the rest of the guys. What will happen to all the kids that idolized him. Please THINK AND HOPE GARNETT AND OTHER PLAYERS WILL REALIZED THIS BEFORE IT MORPHED THE CHILDREN WATCHING HIM. It is too much. NBA should do something with this. Go with the motto “NBA CARE” hope NBA will not become “NBA SCARE”
Andrew Said,
January 21, 2009 @ 5:00 pm
The minute I started hating KG was the minute they won the title and he runs over to Bill Russell and literally starts fake crying…it was ridiculous…i swear Russell was sitting thinking what a punk this guy is…then KG gets interviewed after the game and starts screaming “ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE”…while continuing to literally fake cry…like shut the hell up you stupid clown…it was embarrassing to watch…this is all just an act…and there is no way in hell they win this year or ever again for that matter…he was a loser before he got to Boston and IMO he still is a loser
end rant