Garnett, James lead along different paths

King James and KG will step onto the TD Garden parquet tonight for Game 6 of the Eastern Conference semifinals, with their signature pregame rituals accenting their different approaches: Garnett, head bowed, eyes burning, will thump his head into the basket support. James, gazing upward, will grab a fistful of resin and playfully toss it toward the rafters.

Until 48 hours ago, the argument could be made that both strategies were successful. But with heavily favored Cleveland down, three games to two, and on the brink of elimination, there are questions anew about how James leads — or doesn’t lead — his team. The two-time MVP is suddenly under siege following his lackluster Game 5 performance for failing to demonstrate the urgency, intensity, and edge that are required of elite performers.

Which is more effective: a KG shove or a LeBron embrace? Powe, who reveres both superstars, believes there is a place in the game for both.

According to Powe, James feels compelled to foster relationships that extend beyond the court. Garnett limits his trust to the space between the lines.

Asked how many times he went to Garnett’s home during their two seasons together, Powe answered, “Once. He told me to come over and gave me the directions. I’m driving around the middle of nowhere and I call him and say, ‘Where am I going?’ He says, ‘I’ll pick you up.’ So he comes and takes me to his house. I could never find it again — and that’s exactly what he wanted.’’

Powe has been with the Cavaliers less than one year, yet he already has been to James’s home “too many times to count.’’

“He needs to be around people,’’ Powe said. “He likes the attention, the activity. He’s got a chef at his house and we sit around and eat and laugh. It brings us together.

“LeBron doesn’t care if anyone knows where he lives. He’s got police at the front door 24 hours day.’’