Rondo thankful for KG, says LeBron is overlooked as a teammate

Rajon Rondo has won an NBA championship, made four All-Star teams, and been named to the NBA's All-Defensive First Team twice during his 13-year career.

But the 32-year-old knows his career could've easily followed a different path if it wasn't for ex-Boston Celtics teammate Kevin Garnett.

"If I didn’t get connected with Kevin, I don’t know where I would be in the league. I was in the deal to Minnesota in 2007," Rondo told Marc Spears of The Undefeated. "There were seven players. I saw my name on the ticker on the screen and said, ‘S---, it’s over.’

"I come to find out, he told the Celtics that he wanted me there," Rondo added. "I’m sure (Celtics president) Danny Ainge loved me, but I think KG had a lot to do with me staying as a Celtic."

After nine seasons with the Celtics, Rondo has played for five different teams in as many years - his latest stop being the Los Angeles Lakers.

Rondo describes himself as a sponge, trying to take as much in from the stars he's played with over the years.

The point guard knows LeBron James very well, thanks to their playoff clashes over the years. But being around him every day has been an eye-opening experience, and Rondo raved about James' work ethic and commitment.

"LeBron is a great teammate, and that may be overlooked ... What he does for these young guys is unbelievable," Rondo said. "He leads by example every night. Well, not even every night - every day when he comes into the gym.

"LeBron’s mind is unbelievable too. I love to just kind of sit there and listen to him teach the young guys certain things, and I try to pick up things I can learn from him as well. Having a guy with that type of knowledge on the game is very helpful."