The Boston Celtics announced today that they have acquired 10-time All-Star and 2004 MVP Kevin Garnett from the Minnesota Timberwolves in exchange for Ryan Gomes, Gerald Green, Al Jefferson, Theo Ratliff, Sebastian Telfair, a 2009 first round draft pick (top three protected) and a return of Minnesota?s conditional first round draft pick previously obtained in the Ricky Davis-Wally Szczerbiak trade. Minnesota also receives cash considerations in the deal.

?Kevin Garnett is a great player in our league, with a fierce and competitive spirit, who brings offensive scoring prowess and a defensive presence to our team,? Executive Director of Basketball Operations Danny Ainge said. ?The players we?re trading to Minnesota have bright futures in the NBA and we wish them well.?

The 12-year pro is one of just five players in NBA history to amass at least 19,000 points, 10,000 rebounds and 4,000 assists joining Wilt Chamberlain, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Karl Malone and Charles Barkley.  The 6?11? 253lb forward led the NBA in rebounding for the fourth consecutive season this past year and is just the fourth player in NBA history to do so.  He joins Chamberlain, Moses Malone and Dennis Rodman as the only players to accomplish that feat. Garnett has been named to the All-NBA First Team three times (2000, 2003, 2004), the All-NBA Second Team three times (2001, 2002, 2005) and the All-NBA Third Team twice (1999, 2007).  Garnett has also been named to the All-NBA Defensive First and Second Teams eight times.  His NBA efficiency score of 29.2 was the highest rated of all NBA players in the 2006-2007 season.

?While it?s difficult to part ways with the young players we?ve worked hard to develop, Kevin has been the consummate professional player in the NBA and a player who I have marveled at over the years,? Celtics Head Coach Doc Rivers said.  ?Kevin leaves everything he has out on the floor every game.  He has drive, passion and a hunger to win that is unmatched across the league.?

?I am excited to become a Celtic,? Garnett said.  ?It?s wonderful to have the opportunity to play with players the quality of Paul (Pierce) and Ray (Allen).  The Celtics have had a proud tradition and now I hope that we can add to the legacy.?

"As owners we are delighted to have a core of three All Star talents to anchor our team,? co-owner Wyc Grousbeck remarked. "Speaking for my partners, while we will miss the valuable players we have traded, we have assembled a group of veteran players who demonstrate Celtic Pride on the court and in the community and who will work hard to deliver a championship contender to the fans of New England.?