There are differing assumptions being made about Garnett.
Facts: (or the facts as close as we have)
1. Garnett hasn't demanded a trade (owner went on record last Wednesday).
2. Garnett can opt out of his contract next year.
3. Garnett would love to play on team that has a real chance at winning a title so he's not compared to Karl Malone.
4. There are few teams that could absorb Garnett's salary.
5. Even less that are contenders too.
6. Even less that have something Minnesota would want in return.
7. If Garnett isn't traded this year Minnesota loses him next year while getting nothing in return.
8. According to Gambo Garnett wants a 5 year $100mil extension.
------------------------------------------------------------------
Contenders: Phoenix, Utah, Chicago, Detroit, Miami, Dallas, Cleveland, San Antonio and the Lakers (a stretch).
Take away Utah, Detroit, and San Antonio because they won't pay anyone that much (historically they haven't done it).
Take away Chicago because to match salaries Chicago would have to trade half their team...or include Ben Wallace.
Take away Dallas...because besides Dirk...they have nothing to offer in return...same as Miami.
That leaves the Lakers and the Suns.
Gambo and Ash said that the Lakers are dangling Odom and Bynum...but that doesn't work salary-wise...the only way it works is:
Option A
Odom, Kwame Brown's expiring contract + #19 pick for Garnett. Is that better than
Option B
Marion, KT's expiring contract + #24pick for KG? Or would Minny go for
Option C
Keep Garnett for one year...and get all $22mil off the books next year...but get nothing in return?
Marion is the only way they get an allstar in return plus the use of a big man for a year...and $8mil off the books the next (unless you swap out Marion for Amare which I wouldn't do).