Boston Celtics' Future: Kevin Garnett's Retirement Imminent with Lockout?

Kevin Garnett was looking mighty tired at the end of the season. He didn't seem like the Garnett of old, and it was even said that he could outright retire if a lockout occurred. While a single player retiring over the matter may not seem like a big deal, it is in fact, a huge deal.

For Kevin Garnett's team, the Boston Celtics, defense is led by this 34 year old power forward. Without him, the Celtics wouldn't of won it all in 2008, they wouldn't of made it to the finals again in 2010, and they certainly would have no hope of making one last finals run due to the lockout.

Well, it all seemed like speculation a few months ago. The NBA ratings were doing well, and with plenty of time before the season even ended, a lockout was seen as something that could be avoided. That was then, this is today, when there was one last chance to prevent a lockout.

Both sides failed to reach an agreement, and the work stoppage is set to begin.

Normally, veteran teams would benefit from a lockout, a shortened season really helps with those tired veteran legs. However, if Kevin Garnett decides to retire, the Celtics won't be able reap the benefits of a shorter season. In fact, any hope left of an 18th championship would be gone for the remainder of the season.

It would be up to the Celtics organization to rebuild the Celtics around Rajon Rondo.

How much impact could an aging power forward whose declining in production make?

Garnett has been declining in production since 2008, however, on the defensive end, he's still among the best. He is one of the main reasons Rajon Rondo is rated among the best point guards. Apparently, the big ticket can also act as a key, and unlock the best in people. 

Paul Pierce and Ray Allen improved a lot on the defensive end when the big three formed. Who knows what type of player Rondo would of become if Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen never joined up with Paul Pierce in Boston.

Now, it is debatable about the Celtics having a chance at winning a title. However, it is undeniable, that without Kevin Garnett, there is no chance of the Celtics winning a title.

However, Garnett has recently shown the willingness to remain in the NBA. Since the mention of his retirement, there has not been another whisper of it, hopefully that's a good sign.

Only time will tell if this future hall of fame player will grace the courts again. Likewise, only time will tell if the Celtics go for it all one more time, or jump into rebuilding mode.