No KG makes the Celtics a more interesting playoff team

Lets just put it out there--I love and respect Kevin Garnett. He is by far one of the most influential players in the NBA and the most deserving of a league championship. Although Timberwolves fans were sad to see him traded to the Celtics last season, many were happy to see him finally win a championship.

When the Celtics acquired the services of Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen last season it was made evident to the entire NBA following (which was on a slow decline) that the sport would not be the same. The Celtics dominated the NBA in 2007-2008, winning their first championship since 1986 while returning to glory one of the sport's most decorated franchise--but was this trade detrimental to the competitive nature of the game? I for one was glad to see a revitalized Celtics team, but now not so much.

The fact that KG has been forced to watch the NBA playoffs from the sidelines this season (muscle strain on right knee) has made for a far more dramatic and emotional Celtics-Bulls series. I mean just look at the numbers and headlines: seven OTs so far, game 7 looming, controversy and clutch shooting, 106 lead changes, players climbing new career peaks--too many moments to count. Last nights triple OT game alone reminded me why I used to watch the NBA playoffs.

Things might be different with a healthy Kevin Garnett, but without him, the Celtics are locked in a classic. And isn't this what fans deserve?

The Recipe of the Month: Comfort-Style Meatloaf

Ingredients (3-4 servings):
* 1.25 lb. ground turkey, lean1 chicken sausage (3 oz.), finely chopped
* 1 sweet onion, diced
* 1 sweet potato or yam, shredded
* 1 t thyme, dried
* 2 T Worcestershire sauce
* 1 large egg
* 1 6-oz. can tomato paste
* ¼ cup chicken broth
* ¾ cup dry bread crumbs
* 2 T extra virgin olive oil
* 1 t salt
* ½ t pepper
* 1 jar of your favorite salsa

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

In a medium skillet, warm olive oil over medium high heat and then add onions and saute until translucent (about 1 to 2 minutes). Add sausage pieces to brown for about a minute and then add chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, a tablespoon of tomato paste and thyme. Blend well, then set aside to cool to room temperature.

In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, bread crumbs, egg, sweet potato, onion-sausage mixture, salt and pepper. (Works best when using hands, be sure to wash hands first.) Pour mixture into a 9X13 baking dish and shape into a loaf so it’ll evenly cook. Blend the remaining tomato paste with a cup of salsa and then add the mixture on top of your meatloaf, creating a smooth thin layer.

Place meatloaf into oven and bake until internal temperature is at 160 degrees (about 1 hour).

Remove from oven and let cool for a while before slicing. Serve warm with garlic mashed potatoes and greens.

Pair with a glass of Zinfandel.

P.S. the secret ingredient was left out!!!