Saunders said he hasn’t seen Garnett this excited in the summertime since the Wolves acquired Latrell Sprewell and Sam Cassell in 2003 and finally advanced out of the playoffs’ first round, reaching the Western Conference finals.
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If he fulfills both seasons on a contract guaranteed to him pay him $16 million total, he will have played into his 40s and would become the first National Basteball Association player to play in his teens, 20s, 30s and 40s.
The Timberwolves acquired him in a February trade that sent Thaddeus Young to the Nets, and the franchise icon was given a thundering welcome by the adoring home crowd upon his return.
Saunders said he also expects Garnett to be able to play in some back-to-backs.
“We are excited that KG has chose to continue his career with us”, said Timberwolves president of basketball operations and head coach Flip Saunders. Garnett spent his first 12 seasons with the team before joining the Boston Celtics in 2007 through a trade deal. Garnett’s presence will bring maturity and veteran leadership to a fledgling team that suddenly looks poised to make an impact on the league sooner rather than later.
The returning Garnett will play alongside No. 1 overall pick center Karl-Anthony Towns, which will give Minnesota a strengthened frontline.
Garnett says he’s ready for it.
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In a statement issued through the team, Garnett says he “can’t wait to build something special with this group of guys”. Hopefully I can help, teach, and also continue to grow and learn from the young guys. “The process to greatness starts now!” The Timberwolves will now leave for Las Vegas to compete in the National Basteball Association Summer League with a roster headlined by Towns. They have agreed to terms with Euroleague MVP Nemanja Bjelica, and he is expected in town next week to sign the contract and tour their new practice facility.
