Celtics Legend Gives Knicks Backhanded Compliment

The Eastern Conference deserves praise for such a hot summer. In addition to the Boston Celtics re-signing their relevant players, the Philadelphia 76ers signed the best free agent, Paul George. However, the most active and successful offseason arguably went to the New York Knicks. Boston Celtics legend Kevin Garnett praised the Knicks as the second-best team in the Eastern Conference, with a twist.

"It goes the C's, then the Knicks, then Phili," Garnett told Paul Pierce on the Ticket and the Truth podcast .

New York typically exudes a certain level of hype around the Knicks, especially since the Carmelo Anthony trade acquired its first superstar since Patrick Ewing. However, following the 2024 offseason, the Knicks have its most talented team since 2011.

Jalen Brunson leads the "Villanova" Knicks with Julius Randle, and Mikal Bridges as the three top options for Tom Thibobeau's lineup.

It's odd for a Celtics legend, let alone a current player, to give the Knicks an ounce of praise. However, Garnett wouldn't make such a compliment without a backhand to follow.

“New York(Knicks) is trying to do something special… only problem is it’s a big ol buzzsaw right above them that’s a green buzzsaw that’s cutting everything in half," Garnett said.

Related: Jalen Brunson Talks Father Off 'Ledge'

The Celtics followed up an NBA Finals series victory with a successful offseason. As the Knicks and 76ers loaded up their roster, the Celtics re-upped their championship team to rival any roster.

We'll see how sharp the green buzzsaw is against the Knicks on NBA's opening night on Oct. 11 at the TD Garden.