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Kevin Garnett reveals why he chose Celtics over Lakers in 2007

NBA legend Kevin Garnett has revealed that he seriously considered joining the Los Angeles Lakers before his move to the Boston Celtics in 2007, but difficulties communicating with Kobe Bryant ultimately influenced his decision. Garnett spent the first 12 seasons…

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Published: Monday, 26 October 2026 at 12:45 PM

Key Things to Know

Kevin Garnett rejected joining the Lakers in 2007 partly due to communication issues with Kobe Bryant.
Advice from Chauncey Billups prompted Garnett to pursue a trade away from the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Garnett preferred Boston because of his preexisting relationships with Paul Pierce and Ray Allen.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Kevin Garnett revealed he considered joining the Los Angeles Lakers before his 2007 move to the Boston Celtics, but chose Boston partly because he could not reach Kobe Bryant by phone. After 12 seasons with the Minnesota Timberwolves, a conversation with Chauncey Billups convinced Garnett to seek a trade to pursue an NBA championship.

While the Phoenix Suns and Lakers were options, Garnett ultimately chose Boston due to his familiarity with Paul Pierce and Ray Allen. Before finalizing the trade, Garnett consulted Antoine Walker about playing alongside Pierce. The Celtics subsequently posted a 66-16 record and defeated Bryant's Lakers in the 2008 NBA Finals.

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Kevin Garnett reveals why he chose Celtics over Lakers in 2007

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