Celtics center Kevin Garnett was fined $25,000 for leaving American Airlines Arena in Miami without talking to reporters following Boston’s 101-88 loss to the Heat in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Finals.

Garnett’s snub of the media has fueled speculation that his silence has a larger meaning, that he’s either planning to retire or to sign with another team. Garnett has made no such announcement regarding his future. His $21 million contract with the Celtics expires after the Finals, and he is free to sign with any team, including the Celtics, this summer.


After Game 7, Celtics captain Paul Pierce said he appreciated his time with Garnett.

“It was a great opportunity,” Pierce said. “Not everyone has the chance to play with some of the greatest players of all-time, Ray [Allen], Kevin, also up-and-coming [Rajon] Rondo, who has a bright future here. You can’t ask for anything more. A lot of players don’t get in that position. I’m very thankful for these last five years.”