Kevin Garnet DISMISSES ‘easy path’ narrative in Celtics dominant playoffs run to NBA Finals 

The Celtics dominance this season hasn’t changed the minds of doubters and critics.

Kevin Garnet DISMISSES ‘easy path’ narrative in Celtics dominant playoffs run to NBA Finals 

Kevin Garnett

Kevin Garnett disagreed with the notion that the Boston Celtics had an easy path to the 2024 NBA Finals. Despite their dominant record, critics argue that injuries to opposing teams made their journey easier. Garnett finds this perspective flawed, as he pointed out that the Celtics can’t control their opponents’ health and still had to face professional athletes determined to compete.

Kevin Garnett emphasized that the C’s dominance throughout the season and playoffs speaks for itself, with a 64-18 regular season record and a 41-11 record against Eastern Conference teams. He argued that winning on the road and closing out games are incredibly challenging tasks, regardless of the opposition. 

Their path is their path... It's not on the f***ing Celtics team that guys are getting hurt, not playing, falling out of the lineup. First off, there's still other professionals that are coming in, playing hard as s**t and then still trying to win.
Kevin Garnett on KG Certified
YouTube video

Garnett highlighted the Celtics’ comprehensive team effort, with a deep roster capable of stepping up when needed. This resilience was evident throughout their playoff run, as different players made significant contributions. He believes that the notion that their path was easy undermines the hard work and determination displayed by the entire team.

FS Video

As the Celtics prepare to face the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA Finals, Garnett’s defense of his former team serves as a reminder of the unpredictability and challenges of the playoffs. The path to a championship is never easy, and the Boston Celtics have proven themselves to be a formidable team, ready to compete at the highest level. 

Former NBA champ reveals Mavericks’ path to victory over Celtics

Andrew Wiggins, a member of the 2022 Golden State Warriors team that defeated both the Boston Celtics and Dallas Mavericks, shared his insights on how the Mavericks can stop the Celtics in the NBA Finals. Wiggins emphasized the importance of making the Celtics uncomfortable, and forcing them to rely on their third, fourth, or fifth options, and wearing them down physically.

I would say make them uncomfortable. That’s the main thing, making someone uncomfortable. A great player always has one or two moves -- their go-to moves, but let’s see if you can make them do that third or fourth or fifth option, how is that going to look like? Keep them uncomfortable. Keep that body on them [and] try to wear them down. That was my goal.
Andrew Wiggins on SPORTSNET

Wiggins’ advice comes from his experience playing against both teams, but it’s worth noting that both teams have undergone significant changes since 2022. The Celtics have added Jrue Holiday and Porzingis, while the Mavericks have almost entirely revamped their roster, adding Kyrie Irving, Daniel Gafford, and others.

Despite these changes, both teams boast unstoppable offenses with unique strengths. Ultimately, the outcome of the NBA Finals will likely depend on which team can make their three-point shots. Additionally, Wiggins’ advice to make the Celtics uncomfortable may still hold value. It will be interesting to see how the Mavericks adapt and execute their strategy against a much-improved Celtics team.

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