By Fitzgerald Cecilio

Boston, MA

All-star forward Kevin Garnett decided to stay with the Boston Celtics after both parties agreed to a three-year deal, a league insider disclosed.

According to sources, Garnett will sign a three-year, $34 million pact with the Celtics when the free-agency period starts on July 1.

The 36-year-old Garnett averaged 15.8 points and 8.2 rebounds per game during the regular season, but racked up even better stats (19.2 points and 10.3 boards) during the Celtics playoff push.

Garnett's decision to make less money gives the Celtics enough cap space to retool their lineup by signing solid free-agents or facilitating trades.

The Celtics are reportedly interested in re-signing Ray Allen, who's publicly being lured by LeBron James to South Beach. Boston is also eyeing Memphis Grizzlies guard O.J Mayo.

Garnett has a chance to reach a number of NBA milestones next season, including the possibility of joining NBA greats on the all-time scoring and rebounding lists.

 

Doc Rivers hopes positive thinking will lure Kevin Garnett back to the Celtics next season

 

A compilation of the best soundbites from Kevin Garnett from the past 5 years with the Celtics

 

 

Kevin Garnett Returns to Celtics