Kevin Garnett: “I’m the best pick-setter in the league”

NBA officials are cracking down on illegal screens as a point of emphasis this year, using video of Brooklyn Nets forward Kevin Garnett setting moving screens as an example of what not to do. When in Boston with the Celtics, Garnett became somewhat infamous for the screens he set on opposing defenders, moving out of his original stance to further slow defenders illegally.

When asked by reporters why he was on that video, Garnett replied simply. “Because I’m the best pick-setter in the league. I understand that.”

Here’s an example put together by a fan of a possession where Garnett threw down multiple illegal screens:

Garnett believes that both he and the league have to make the adjustment with the new point of emphasis. “I think it’s half-and-half, to be honest. I always try to get better at whatever it is I’m doing. I’m figuring the reason they’re putting it in there is because some things are not right. So if I’m looking at my mechanics and if I’m not setting proper picks, then you know what? I’m going to have to. It’s the game. You’re going to have to adjust in the game. I’m no perfect human being, but I do try to master my craft and perfect my craft.”

“Hell yeah, if it’s something to where it’s gonna hound me to whether I’m gonna play or not, I’m going to have to adjust to it, absolutely.”

Garnett added that he doesn’t think about allotting a certain amount of offensive fouls to “give away” on potential illegal screen calls. “That’s almost like holding yourself back- ‘set this type of screen,’ no no no no no. Everything’s full throttle with me.”