Is Kevin Garnett Getting You Down?

You invested a first round pick on Kevin Garnett and he’s been solid, but are you getting what you expected? 

Through 26 games, the Celtics are off to an historic 24-2 start. KG has been a big part of their success, but is he delivering fantasy goodies? 

Defensively he is, but he really has taken a back seat on the offensive end of the court. Paul Pierce proved he’s the leader of this squad in last year’s playoffs—that cannot be disputed. Rajon Rondo is doing his part to bust up the Big Three label. Ray Allen’s scoring is up slightly.

Meanwhile, Garnett’s scoring average of 16.5 ppg is the lowest since his rookie season. His rebounds are up slightly from last year (9.5 compared to 9.2), but still far off of his career mark of 11.2 rpg. His assists (2.6 apg) are also the lowest since his rookie season. 

There are 42 players, including the likes of Al Thornton and rookie Derrick Rose, who are averaging more points than the Big Ticket. What’s more surprising is the fact that there are 14 players averaging more rebounds.

Once a double-double (and occasional triple-double) machine, KG is tied for 12th with 12 double-doubles. Don’t count on a triple-double from the Kid, as he’s dished out five or more assists on just two occasions. Hardly what you’d expect from a guy that made 20 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists the norm for six straight years.

KG is still one of the best all-around players, in both fantasy and reality. He’s shooting 51.9 percent from the floor and 82.1 percent from the line, though his 2.7 free throw attempts per game are the lowest since his rookie season.

He’s still doing his part defensively with 1.4 blocks and 1.3 steals per game. Only KG, Dwyane Wade, Nene, Shawn Marion, and Andrei Kirilenko have at least 1.3 steals and 1.3 blocks per game.

So should you trade KG? I probably wouldn’t...unless it was too good of an offer to refuse.

Would I move him for Andris Biedrins? Probably. Pau Gasol? Not so much. He is not untouchable by any means. Keep you ears open to any offers that might come your way.