That swagger

Kevin Garnett was hesitant. He’s new here.

“The Eastern Conference has gotten better," Garnett said when asked if he thought the Celtics were the favorite. "I wouldn’t go that far and say we’re the team to beat. We have things to prove. We have to work on chemistry.”

Paul Pierce and Ray Allen jumped right in.

“I know when other teams look at that schedule and we’re coming to town, they’re probably going to get their rest the night before,” said Pierce.

Allen echoed his sentiments.

“Kevin is passionate, and Paul’s passionate,” said Allen. “But they’re also stubborn. They’re also ornery. When they’re out there, they want the best.

"I’ll say this too. When I’m on the perimeter and I got these behind me, you know my confidence level goes up sky high, you know my swagger is through the roof, and I guarantee they both feel the same way offensively and defensively. When the other team sees us coming on the other end they’re definitely going to be afraid, because you gotta pick your poison."