That was 2008 and yes we were a bit spoiled

Soon after, it seemed every team's unlikely hero was banging their heart when hitting a big shot, lifting their team's name on their jersey in proclamation that their squad was for real. Some did it only against the Celtics in a mocking gesture; others did it just because they saw Garnett and the Celtics do it.Paying the biggest dividends from the KG tornado may have been Paul Pierce.The "one again-off again" star had only achieved modest success throughout his decade in Boston. The success he had achieved was often marred by his off-court comments, tumultuous relationships with coaches and culminated with his demands for a trade in 2007.Danny Ainge had a trade of his own in mind, a swap that would keep Pierce satisfied in green and turn the NBA upside down.Garnett and Ray Allen arrived in Boston in the summer of 2007. Garnett's contagious intensity infected Paul Pierce and a self-imposed metamorphosis began. The iso-minded, offensive forcer, often whiner, sometimes booed super-star was transformed into a defense first, lead by example player He forced nothing but was doing everything. The Captain was born.That was 2008, and, yes, we were a bit spoiled.Fast-forward to today. Put in the context of the past, it may be a bit understandable to scrutinize Garnett's recovery.The last four games have been a growth period for Garnett.

We have witnessed KG narrowing his aim and connecting on an astounding 22-27 from the field. He has directly had his hand in a game winner against the Knicks and a knock out blow to Miami.The Ticket has displayed some explosion around the hoop in Boston's recent win streak. His one-on-one defense is showing signs of returning to top form. Though not quite as tentative as the opening games of the season, he still shows some hesitancy in traffic."Larry-Bird Syndrome" again Maybe.The fact remains, Garnett's progression has been, and will continue to be, gradual No need to rush it Boston is stacked with star power and they have his back. Recently, best friend and teammate, Rasheed Wallace told the Boston Globe,I told you all that the knee is getting stronger Some people are still worried about it Everybody keeps asking me about it But all it is is time.

He’s taking his time with it and every game is looking better for him.’After a blazing 6-0 start, the C's adrenaline seemed to drain and the harsh realities set in This team is not fully set. coaches Rotations are not totally lined up, Big Baby is still out and what seemed to be a glue-like chemistry early on has shown signs of needing a regrouping.The Celtics hit some road bumps and struggled a bit. Opponents have scored on them and left fans scratching their heads, trying to figure out what's going on with this team It's not the 27-2 start of 2008-09. That kind of regular season dominance may never again be seen from this team.Wait a second! Kevin Garnett was out for 25 games last season and we still won 60 games! Shouldn't we be 17-0 with him backI have high expectations for this squad The basketball world has echoed those same expectations. Early road bumps They don't occur with our team!Truth is, like any championship contending squad, with the type superstar talent that the Celtics possess, they will experience growing pains. Add to that Garnett's recovery period and you have an early bumpy road.I don't know about you, but I would prefer some bumps on the way to the mountain top, making us stronger, pulling us together.

Adversity builds cohesion on championship squads, right The be(a)st is yet to come...Four straight victories, Garnett 22-27 from the field, two game clinchers, better ups and yet that "Larry-Bird Syndrome" still didn't subside much.An article published in the Globe this morning peaked my interest. At first it seemed to be the typical story we've all written about KG's return to form. When I am reacting and stuff flows, I’m a better player like that. I’m trying to find timing in what coach Doc Rivers wants and making it come together.Displaying his (mistaken) hesitancy, KG explains why he has not looked to shoot first recently:I wasn’t even going to it but Paul was on my butt on the bench about being aggressive, take the shot, take the damn shot Here I’m just a piece that fits in the puzzle.