NBA 2016 Rumors: Is Kevin Garnett Retiring? Timberwolves 'Yet to Hear' KG's Decision

By Maverick Russel Flores, CP Contributor Friday, September 09, 2016

Kevin Garnett is undoubtedly one of the best power forwards in NBA history. For a position that has been held by the likes of Kevin McHale, Charles Barkley and Karl Malone, Garnett had to earn his right to such title.

He spent most of his prime with the Minnesota Timberwolves, the team that drafted him 5^{th overall in 1995—over twenty years ago. Midway through the 2014-15 season, Garnett decided he would end his career in his home for almost a decade, not for a title shot, but for a chance at mentoring rising talent and a bigger role down the road.}

Legend retirements are huge news this offseason, with the likes of Kobe Bryant and Tim Duncan hanging their hats. Having played against both greats during his illustrious career, will Garnett follow suit?

Waiting for an answer

As it turns out, only time will tell if he will return to the Wolves—at least, until the last minute of negotiations. The Minnesota front office is keen on giving Garnett much time to think and they are not about to rush their only true franchise superstar out of the window.

Garnett had sporadic communication with the team management during the offseason, but both Wolves general manager Glen Taylor and new coach Tom Thibodeau are willing to wait. It is worth noting that Thibodeau was assistant coach for the Boston Celtics when Garnett finally got his first title.

Speaking of the Celtics, Garnett's former coach Doc Rivers believes the Wolves' first and only MVP still has reasons to return this season. Rivers said Garnett loved the young guns in his team and could land a teacher role this year, like what Juwan Howard once did for the Heat.

The greatest Wolf

If Garnett chooses to take his leave now, he would be doing so on a high note. He is retiring from his beloved team with a chance at getting an ownership role down the stretch. He also has a Hall-of-Fame career behind him, with career averages of 17.8 points, 10 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game.

If he decides to come back, the 15-time All-Star can continue mentoring rising stars Ricky Rubio, Andrew Wiggins, Zach LaVine and his potential heir, Karl-Anthony Towns. Overall, the 21-season veteran and former champion has a win-win situation on his hands—his only concern now is what would be best for his team.