"I can't give up KG unless you include Gerald Green in the trade."

Kevin McHale, who earlier this season cautioned Celtics fans not to worry about the C’s tendency to conserve energy during games, has lost some of his optimism. (CSNNE)

“I would say, as of today, probably not,” the former Celtic great said Sunday at an appearance at Burlington Mall when asked if Boston could win the title. “But that can change. Again, if they start catching a little bit of that wave and get that rhythm . . . how they start off that playoff series, you know, do they really get focused?

“And I think [Doc Rivers is] a very good coach. Doc will get them as ready as he can.”

Odd that McHale is optimistic while the C’s are playing poorly, then pessimistic once they start to turn things around.

Either way, whether he’s pessimistic or not, I just want to thank McHale one last time. Without his willingness to trade KG for Al Jefferson and a lump of coal, the Celtics never would have won a title, nor would they be in the conversation to win one this season.

So thanks, Kevin, even though I hope you have to eat your words.