The on-the-court chemistry between Kevin Garnett and Shaquille O'Neal was evident the first time they took the floor together back in the preseason. It wasn't long before we saw that chemistry extend to the bench as well, where they were often seen laughing and joking with one another. It's cool when you think about the parallels between their historic careers with different teams - NBA champions, All-Stars, former MVPs, future Hall of Famers - and how they're now thriving alongside one another on the same team.
The days of individual awards and accolades might very well be behind them. Neither will earn heavy consideration for MVP this season (Garnett might earn some) and, even though they are both on the ballot, All-Star selections will not be guaranteed. The arrival of Amare Stoudemire in the East hurts Garnett's chances (but if he keeps playing the way he's been playing, he'll certainly deserve the spot), and Brook Lopez's continued emergence in New Jersey hinders Shaq's.
But the days of competing for championships? Those are still very much upon this palpable pair, and they are undoubtedly enjoying the company of one another as they continue to cement their legacies in the NBA history books.
From Kevin Garnett: Shaq Heaven-scent by Mark Murphy of The Boston Herald:
"Shaq is like paradise, man," he said. "You ever wash your sheets and then go outside and hang them out, and the sun dries them? You ever smell the sheets?
"That's what Shaq is, Shaq is like," Garnett said before breathing in deeply, like he was inhaling fresh air. "I don't want to give any products any tags right now, but you know what I'm saying. For anybody who's ever hung out clothes, they know what I mean."
KG's really good with words, isn't he? I suggest you check out the rest of the story and get Shaq's take on KG. It's been awesome watching these guys play together this season. I think I'm almost having as much fun as they are.