Your Morning Dump… Where KG asks the media to clear that [expletive] up

Every morning, we compile the links of the day and dump them here… highlighting the big storyline. Because there’s nothing quite as satisfying as a good morning dump.

“As any nickname I have given all the young boys — because I do know their names — our personal connection is a nickname,” Garnett said, referring to a story earlier in the week about his use of nicknames to address rookies. “So if I give you a nickname, that’s personal for me. Clear that (expletive) up.”

“I’m saying I’m not disrespecting somebody by not knowing their names,” Garnett said. “Some people don’t even talk to rookies. I’m very connected with the young guys just off my path and where I come from. So clear it up.”

Herald – Garnett connects with rooks in his own way

Garnett was addressing a mini-controversy that surfaced about rookie nicknames and speculation that KG doesn’t know their real names.

KG dropped another great quote when elaborating about the importance of veterans in a young man’s league:

Garnett has been in the league since he was 19 years old and is set to begin his 18th season. He’s a firm believer in paying dues and earning respect.

“I’ve always said I’m a big fan of veterans,” Garnett said. “More importantly, with the league being full of young guys, it probably needed a little more just to teach some of these young guys on work ethic, being consistent with your work ethic, loving this game and giving 100 percent and not just (expletive) going through, not just half-assing, entitlement, respecting, earning what you get and really setting yourself for the future. Not just riding off potential, but actually becoming something. I’ve always been a big fan of the veterans and I’ve always voiced that.”

I wonder if 19 year old KG would get along with 37 year old KG? Now that would be a fun dynamic.

The Celtics take on the Knicks tonight in Hartford. ESPN Boston has a mini-preview.

The rest of the links:

WEEI – Fun with lineups: Pierce and Green together | ESPN Boston – Doc says Terry might start | Globe – Garnett: Celtics bring back 07-08 memories | Herald – Cs add needed size | If he’s upset with role, Bass isn’t saying | CSNNE – New Celtics Lee does the fitting in with his game |