Who stays? -- Who goes? Who comes in?

[CaptChris]

This year is the strangest in many years. We have changed 1/3 of the team already. 5 out of 15!

Who will survive physically, and who will re-sign? How about the Draft?

Will Shaq and Jermaine be able to play next year? Can West come back?

Will we be able to re-sign Glen Davis -- Krystic -- Jeff Green ? Then you have West -- Wafer -- Murphy -- Arroyo -- Pavlovic. Do you want to re-sign them?

Then we have the Draft? What players? What positions? If Shaq and Jermaine go, do we go for a Center? Do we trade for what we need?

So, it is gong to be a real show.

After we WIN # 18, the changes could be interesting.

[Spleen]

We should make a concerted effort to resign Big Baby as long as he isn't looking for something close to max salary. He's been very good coming off the bench and filling in the depleted ranks all season. Folks keep looking at him and picking him apart like he was a limp piece of lettuce. We've heard it all about his lack of height and leaping ability, his short arms and unconventional shot. His weight. What few are so quick to point out is that when he's in there he gets the job done on both ends, and has led the league in taking blocks. He does get shots blocked, but he's also a bull dog underneath and often yanks the ball out of an opponents hands. He's a decent enough free throw shooter so he's helping there. He'll hit the occasional trey, though that's pushing his limits, and he's much more comfortable in the 15 - 18 foot range. His strength and leverage allows him to keep a lot of players from backing him down, and he has surprisingly quick feet for someone his size which allows him to move on the defense and not always get caught because he was late getting there.

Krstic is a keeper, so as long as we don't have to break the bank, we need to keep him around for a while.

Green is a no brainer, and it is unimaginable that we would have made this deal with him as the centerpiece only to let him get away.

Arroyo at the right price makes a lot of sense as he is a capable backup PG that can also start if needed. Given West's injury history, I still want him on the team, but I wouldn't place all my eggs in his basket. West is versatile enough to play shooting guard as long as he can stay well enough to play, and stay out of trouble with the law.

Murphy can be a big off the bench with experience, but he needs to understand that he's not going to be getting big time bcuks at this stage of his career.

Von Wafer is someone with potential and had shown some flashes before getting hurt, but he's also an end of the bench kind of player at this point.

This is a team that has 69.5 million already slated for KG, PP, RA, RR, and JO, plus another 5.9 for Green in his last year of his rookie contract. Finding a way to pay to keep Davis, Krstic, West, Arroyo, and Murphy may become some accountant's finest hour.

[LordRC]

The answers don't seem as straight forward about a month since the bench has been turned over. The only sure thing we can say is Ainge must keep Green by almost all means. He's been the most consistent of the deadline/post deadline arrivals, liable to explode for big games at any time. His post play and range is better than I would had expected.

Nenad appears to be over-thinking, which is adversely affecting his game. He's so concerned with doing things right that he's messing with what comes natural to him. I wanted to keep him after his first five games with Boston. Now, I'm not too sure.

JO signed for two years, but he could be a trade chip as an expiring contract next season. I could also live with Bradley being shown the door, as he's looked way over his head when playing. Wafer I'm 50/50 on.

I fear Big Baby is out to cash in on his skills and will follow the lure of money, more playing time, and a possible starting position. Sasha is a waste. Murphy on the team sounds appealing, but I need to see better production with consistency out of him. Shaq signed for two years, right? He's at the vet minimum, so that wouldn't bother me.

Clearly the deadline deals were with the future in mind. With that being the case, Ainge should lean more towards production than potential in the draft. Rondo and Perk are the exceptions for Ainge drafting potential over experienced collegians. Danny's track record drafting juniors and seniors (Baby, Powe, Bill Walker) is good. I would be very happy with Duke's Nolan Smith or Purdue's JuJuan Johnson. I would even entertain the idea of Ohio State's Dallas Lauderdale with the second round pick or as a rookie free agent for depth and to develop as a post defender.

Yeah I'm way early thinking about the draft, but if the Celts are going to transition from the present to the future, we know Ainge has been thinking about this a lot longer than we have.

--LordRC

[nighthob]

I'll focus on the draft in this first post. I'm low on Lauderdale. He's Big Baby without the skills. And he lacks Davis' bulk & lateral quickness to boot. His arms are really long, but he has no offensive game, can't really defend on the perimeter and doesn't have a ton of upside as a post defender. Really I'd prefer them to take a first round flyer on either Kenny Faried or Reggie Jackson. Faried has the same sort of wingspan as Lauderdale, but he's got much better lateral quickness. He's the sort of player that could, with some work on his body (he's around 230, he clearly needs another 15-20lbs), replace Garnett's defensive impact for Boston. Unfortunately he has zero offensive game, and his free throw shooting makes him look like a poor man's Ben Wallace (that is a guy who could realistically post a 2/10 line as an NBA starter).

Jackson is one of my favourite combo guards at the NCAA level, he's a project, but at 6'3" 210 with a freakish wingspan (I wouldn't be surprised to see him measure out at 6'9" or more) and room to fill out he can guard the 2, while having the lateral quickness (and length) to bother most point guards. Plus the strength to deal with guys like Williams, Westbrook & Rose. As a second round prospect they should take a long hard look at Jeremy Tyler. He's a kid that could really benefit from being around Boston's vets. He's got the size/length to be a solid post defender. His immaturity worries a lot of teams, though, and he's struggled as a high schooler overseas.

Another player that could benefit from Boston's vet atmosphere is Mississippi's Renardo Sidney. He's the classic high risk/high reward player. If Doc and Boston's vets could get through to him, he has the ability to be an all star. He's a 6'9" face up forward with range on his jumper out to about 20'. Studying the game under Garnett would be the best thing that ever happened to Sidney.

Another guy that falls into that same area is UCLA's Malcolm Lee, he's another combo guard lost in Ben Howland's retarded offense whose NBA future is likely better than his college career. He's got great size, length, quickness and handles. He'd be a great Tony Allen replacement, and probably pair very well with West in the backcourt. Another combo guard to keep an eye on is Iman Shumpert. He's 6'4", quick, long and very physical.

[nighthob]

Now for players on the current roster. Davis is certainly looking to cash in, and given Green's presence might be more valuable to Boston as a trade exception than an ongoing contract. Krstic may be done for the year, but if he's available for around $3 million he could have some value to them as a 2nd/3rd string center. Wafer is nice depth, but little more. West will be back, but he's injury prone and Boston could use an upgrade at the combo guard spot. Jermaine is another player that is more valuable as an expiring contract than a player, and Avery Bradley's chief value is likely as sweetener to make O'Neal's buyout more attractive. All this being said Boston has a lot of flexibility this summer, and that Clippers' first round pick a very valuable trade asset.

They have Avery Bradley, Jermaine O'Neal's expiring contract, and a possible Baby TPE/sign & trade to use. One team alleged to be looking at Davis is Indiana. So a three way sign & trade with Davis going to the Pacers and O'Neal & Bradley the other way could make Boston a serious player on the free agent market. Even moreso if they could work out a Davis sign & trade to Indiana and Bradley/O'Neal to the Wizards to create a $12-$13 million TPE, which would be a major asset combined with that Clipper #1.

2011 Free Agency Targets- Center/Post Defenders

Marc Gasol- Memphis gave Rudy Gay max money, Michael Conley well over MLE money, still have $11 million tied up in OJ Mayo, Tony Allen, and Darrell Arthur next year, and have to choose between Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol this summer or risk pushing themselves over the luxury tax line after filling out the roster. They're presently at $37.5 million (they're picking up Sam Young's option) and Z-Bo is going to make bank after the year he's had. He's put the Grizzlies on his back since Rudy Gay went down and is carrying them into the playoffs. If they push LA or San Antonio he's probably going to get 4/60 from someone, and likely the Grizz. Meaning that Michael Heisley will listen to offers on Marc Gasol if he gets starting center offers (5/45). He's not the post defender that Perkins is, but the man has a very versatile offensive game, to go along with solid rebounding and defense. He's target one for me.
Nenê Hilario- He has a player option, and suddenly finds himself on a non-contender. So there's a good chance that he could be looking to cash in this summer, and that Clipper #1 would have to look awfully enticing to the rebuilding Nuggets.
DeAndre Jordan- Another restricted free agent. You have a Clippers #1, and they'd probably kill to get it back. But they'd need more than Jordan to tempt Boston in that regard. Given that they need money for their two stars (Griffin & Gordon) and have a pending high lottery pick in 2012 (courtesy of the Timberwolves) that will also command some coin, they may be hesitant to pay Jordan starting center money. He's a raw player, but can provide someone with defense and rebounding in the paint. And he'd look a lot better on a vet squad like Boston.
Dam Sam Dalembert- Unrestricted, Miami will want him, but they'll only have a depreciated MLE to offer (because the cap, and therefore the MLE, is going down in the new CBA). Boston can offer more via sign & trade because they have an expiring deal and a prospect to offer. Or a two way sign & trade with Davis heading to the (soon to be) LA Royals and Dam Sam coming here.
Tyson Chandler- The oft-injured Chandler is probably not worth more than the MLE anymore, and Dallas will probably offer him more to help them ride out the Dirk years. But he brings post defense and rebounding to the table wherever he ends up.
Chuck Hayes- Assuming they let Baby leave. Despite his lack of size he's a top notch post defender. Not an NBA starter, but about as good as it gets off the bench. But he's another player that his present team will likely overpay to keep in the fold.
Greg Oden- Portland's making brave noises about making him a qualifying offer, but I doubt they do. They already have $61 million tied up in their existing roster, and clearly want to use Miller's gold-standard expiring deal to add more talent to the roster. If they do they'd be close on $70 million with draft picks to pay and Nicholas Batum's extension looming. I just can't see them committing $9 million more to Oden. He's a huge reclamation project, but for the right money could prove to be a bargain. Especially on a team where there'd be no expectations and no pressure from having been the #1 pick.
Joel Przybilla- Another injury reclamation project. Charlotte's made noises about bringing him back, but this another case where I don't believe it. He brings post defense and rebounding to the table. If he gets healthy he could be a real asset for another run at the title.
Nazr Mohammed- I would have put him higher except that the trades that OKC made at the deadline mean that they'll be overpaying to keep Mohammed. They have Harden's extension looming, and really nothing to offer but the MLE, so Nazi will likely return as their backup center. But he's certainly a guy to keep an eye on.
Chris Wilcox/Kwame Brown- The low rent options. Brown only has one NBA skill, post defense. His Blountian hands make him a mediocre rebounder. If there's nothing better available, he's worth it as a stopgap. He won't cost more than the vet min.


Forwards

Kenyon Martin- Might not like the prospect of going someplace to be a backup. Then again, given his age/injury history he might just like the opportunity to go someplace to win a title. An expanded deal involving Green & Wilson Chandler might be enticing for both teams; as I doubt the rebuilding Nuggets will want to pay Chandler's price tag, and Jeff Green and a Clipper first could be a sell to the home crowds.
Shane Battier- If Baby leaves, he'd be a valuable addition as the primary backup at the 2/3. He's nothing more than an outlet shooter on the offensive end, but he'd be there primarily for his defense.
Carl Landry- If the Hornets are in N'awlins next year, a Baby/Landry deal could look good to the NBA. He's an aggressive scorer and would provide the 2nd unit with a lot of firepower.
Grant Hill- With the Suns now imploding Hill might be more likely to leave to give one last shot at a title, and he'd be the ideal primary backup at the 2/3 (essentially Pierce would swing to the 2 when Grant was in the game).
Tayshaun Prince- Another aging player that might prefer to end his career on a contender.
Brandan Wright- A reclamation project. New Jersey's about to reward the contract year heroics of Mr. Kardashian, and still have some absurd contracts on their payroll (Travis Outlaw & Johan Petro). A fresh start as KG's understudy could pay some dividends for Boston.
Josh Howard- Another player with an extensive injury history. But in a more limited role might be able to contribute to a contender. The injury history means he won't be expensive (probably around $3-$4 million).
AK-47- As a two year MLE might not be bad in the role of swing forward.
Al Thornton- Has talent, but spent his career on kiddie teams which brought out the worst in him. So he's another major reclamation project. A swing forward that can really only play the 4 in a small ball lineup. But becoming Pierce's understudy might be the best career move he could make.
Sonny Weems/Shawne Williams- The low rent options. Weems has been stuffing his stat sheet in Toronto this year. He'd still be a good swingman. Shawne has two dollar talent and a ten cent head. If Doc could get through to him, though, he'd be a nice backup as a power 3.


Guards
This is the weakest spot in free agency. There aren't many desirable guards that are going to escape their present teams (i.e. the only ones worth having are RFAs).

JR Smith- Doc got through to Ricky Davis, the craziest player of the last decade. To the extent that if he weren't Ricky Davis he would have won a Sixth Man of the Year award. If he could get through to Smith Boston would be able to add some potent scoring at the 2.
Aaron Brooks- Probably wants to start someplace. He's an RFA, but given the present payroll realities in Phoenix, unless they trade their audience draw (Nash), they probably let Brooks leave. They have $48 million+ committed for next season and may want Pietrus back, which makes Brooks financially expendable if his price goes above his QO. A solid combo guard, can run an offense and knock down open shots.
Michael Pietrus- A swingman that I'm listing with the guards because there are so few of them. Plays some D, hits open treys. Not much more that you can ask from a backup.
Ronnie Price- Another option as a backup PG.
Rasual Butler- Yes the options out there really are that bad.
Jason Richardson- Used to regularly have career games against us, now can't even light us up playing on a stacked team and the Celtics can't focus attention on him. A last resort.

[texascelticsfan]

I like Pietrius. I can see Hill coming here, but that really depends on Doc's status. Same with Prince.

Oden is a scary thought, he could be something, but we've had OBryant and Olawakandi already, so I think chickens hatched.

Bigger question, what happens if Doc leaves?

[nighthob]

I said this last year, his return/departure is going to be dependent on what the owners are doing. If they're committed to putting a contender on the floor, I don't think he'll be going anywhere. If Doc leaves it's because the owners are playing out the string until new buyers come along.

[texascelticsfan]

If Doc leaves it's because the owners are playing out the string until new buyers come along.

Im starting to get a strong feeling thats what they are doing, particularly if the CBA doesnt go the way Stern/Ownership hopes. Thats where I was pointing Ainge's sudden sense of urgency to blow things up. Frank takes over on the cheap as head coach for a rebuilding effort based around the clip pick and rondo.

Of course location and Pat Riley might have something to do with Doc's exit as well. (Miami is a 3 hour commute from Orlando and a hop-skip-jump away from Durham)

[nighthob]

If they were looking to rebuild on the cheap Ainge made exactly the wrong move. I've no doubt that the owners are going to wait and see what the new CBA brings, and they may be looking to play out the string. But if they were they really looking to rebuild on the cheap, then Rondo & filler for Baron Davis/DeAndre Jordan, LA's 2011 #1 and Minnesota's 2012 #1 would have made much more sense.

[texascelticsfan]

If they were looking to rebuild on the cheap Ainge made exactly the wrong move. I've no doubt that the owners are going to wait and see what the new CBA brings, and they may be looking to play out the string. But if they were they really looking to rebuild on the cheap, then Rondo & filler for Baron Davis/DeAndre Jordan, LA's 2011 #1 and Minnesota's 2012 #1 would have made much more sense.

Yeah, but they're also looking to sell out playoff games this season. They made the move that was the most sellable to the Boston audience. You can't sell contention by trading away one of your top 3 players. Trading Ray Allen on the other hand, but once again Playoff ticket sales are important.

[texascelticsfan]

Pending a buyout/retirement of Jermiane, they're looking at $60 million on the books and two expiring salaries in KG and Ray. Only Paul and Rondo go beyond next season.

[nighthob]

Yeah, but they're also looking to sell out playoff games this season. They made the move that was the most sellable to the Boston audience. You can't sell contention by trading away one of your top 3 players. Trading Ray Allen on the other hand, but once again Playoff ticket sales are important.

Except that the trade I outlined wouldn't have dropped them from contention, and would have shored them up at the C spot. Hell, given that the Clippers were willing to pay a lottery pick to lose one year of Davis, Boston could probably have got Bledsoe as well had they talked to the Clippers. They would have sold out their playoff run, anyway, even if they would likely have topped out as a second round team. But those two lottery picks would have made for an easy sell. Especially given how awful Minnesota is, as that 2012 pick could have been Austin Rivers or Michael Gilchrist.They could have added Brandon Knight or Kemba Walker this year, which would have been been an easy sell to Boston crowds. So I don't think that they were intending on playing out the string as they could have done it far more profitably.

[LordRC]

I've been viewing mock draft after mock draft, watching how the selections change after updates, just to get a sense of which way the Celts could go and who would be available. Nighthob, you're right about Lauderdale. I was basing my assumptions that he was actually a 7-footer. But Draft Express lists him as 6-8! Yeah, I'll take a pass. Now I'm shifting my attention to Gary McGee from Pitt. He's a legit 7-footer with typical small stats for a less-skilled post player. But he does come from Pitt, so I'd think he would have the right defense-first mentality and would fill the role right. Make him focus on rebounding, blocking shots, and defense and he could fit in nicely. I ain't seen him pop up an any mock draft, so maybe he's a RFA possibility.

It seems we're forgetting about Chris Johnson, the wiry 10-day contract kid that had a cup of coffee with the Celts earlier this season. He should at the very least get a camp invite with Boston. Nothing to lose if you ask me.

Of the free agents Nighthob mentioned, only Gasol and Pietrus interests me. Kinda sad that would be it.

I'm liking the trade deadline guys less and less. With the exception of Green, I won't miss anybody else: Murph has butter-fingers, Sasha's a dog, Arroyo is servicable, but worth a vet minimum contract. As much as I like West when he plays, I have a problem with when he plays, which isn't enough because of injuries.

--LordRC

[texascelticsfan]

Except that the trade I outlined wouldn't have dropped them from contention, and would have shored them up at the C spot. Hell, given that the Clippers were willing to pay a lottery pick to lose one year of Davis, Boston could probably have got Bledsoe as well had they talked to the Clippers. They would have sold out their playoff run, anyway, even if they would likely have topped out as a second round team. But those two lottery picks would have made for an easy sell. Especially given how awful Minnesota is, as that 2012 pick could have been Austin Rivers or Michael Gilchrist.They could have added Brandon Knight or Kemba Walker this year, which would have been been an easy sell to Boston crowds. So I don't think that they were intending on playing out the string as they could have done it far more profitably.

They're selling a "window of contention" to their fans, not "the rebuilding effort". It may have been a very good deal in the basketball sense, but not in the business sense. They would've gotten killed in the press and by their fanbase. Profitable has everything to do with selling t-shirts/jerseys/commemorative crap not paying for press coverage to explain a trade to their fanbase.

How does losing Rondo (#3 in selling Jerseys for the Cs) for a more expensive contract in terms of Luxury tax (Davis) over the next two seasons more profitable? Especially to an ownership thats looking to sell the team within that timeframe?

Draft Picks are not always profitable to an owner either, ask Robert Sarver (which is what Wyc is turning into).

[nighthob]

It may have been a very good deal in the basketball sense, but not in the business sense. They would've gotten killed in the press and by their fanbase. Profitable has everything to do with selling t-shirts/jerseys/commemorative crap not paying for press coverage to explain a trade to their fanbase.

How does losing Rondo (#3 in selling Jerseys for the Cs) for a more expensive contract in terms of Luxury tax (Davis) over the next two seasons more profitable? Especially to an ownership thats looking to sell the team within that timeframe?


They don't get the NBA merchandise sales money, that money goes into the BRI pool for disbursement.
It would have been Rondo/filler, allowing them to reduce their tax number anyway (if that's really all they were interested in).
People weren't going to cancel their postseason tickets, so it's not really pertinent.
They would have been able to replace their PG in the 2011 draft, as it's about the only position with any depth (there are three solid starters in this year's pool), one of them an extremely popular local player.
That 2012 pick would have been a huge marketing centerpiece should it land in the top 3.



Draft Picks are not always profitable to an owner either, ask Robert Sarver (which is what Wyc is turning into).

Draft picks have been pretty profitable for Sarver. The Suns have made millions off them. Because the Suns have been a second tier WC playoff team in the last couple of years, the Suns' picks haven't been high enough to give them a shot at the prime talent, so they've been at the mercy of their GM. And he hasn't covered himself in glory there. The best move he's made is turning Earl Clark into a starting center (along with unloading Turkeyglue's contract).

[nighthob]

I've been viewing mock draft after mock draft, watching how the selections change after updates, just to get a sense of which way the Celts could go and who would be available. Nighthob, you're right about Lauderdale. I was basing my assumptions that he was actually a 7-footer. But Draft Express lists him as 6-8! Yeah, I'll take a pass. Now I'm shifting my attention to Gary McGee from Pitt. He's a legit 7-footer with typical small stats for a less-skilled post player. But he does come from Pitt, so I'd think he would have the right defense-first mentality and would fill the role right. Make him focus on rebounding, blocking shots, and defense and he could fit in nicely. I ain't seen him pop up an any mock draft, so maybe he's a RFA possibility.

McGhee might be good for an undrafted free agent signing, but he's not really anyone that I'd expend a pick on.


Of the free agents Nighthob mentioned, only Gasol and Pietrus interests me. Kinda sad that would be it.

Hilario interests me, as he'd be an effective Perkins replacement. Grant Hill, as well, as a prime backup at the 2/3.

I wrote a giant piece for one of my other sites, I posted the free agent part here above, I'm putting the trade/draft parts in now.

Shopping in the Bargain Bin

Trade Targets

Epke Udoh- Yes, this really isn't shopping in the bargain bin, and is probably a non-starter. But the Warriors are overloaded at the SF/SG spots, meaning that their lottery selection is likely to be another PF. And they're already on the hook for David Lee's max deal. Meaning that either Udoh or the draftee will be superfluous. Boston would need to come across with that Clipper first for him, but he has the potential to be a Garnett replacement down the line
Ronnie Milsap- The Jazz have a pair of lottery picks coming, and are stuck with The Big Lazy, so they'll probably draft a PG & PF/C and hope for the best. But with Derrick Favors there, the PF spot will be awfully crowded, and the Jazz would probably like moving Milsap's contract.
Jonny Flynn- The T-wolves are trying to bring in Ricky Rubio and have looming max extensions for K-Love and possibly Beasley, not to mention Anthony Randolph's extension. Flynn still has a lot of upside, and would look good as Rondo's understudy.
OJ Mayo-The Grizzlies drafted him with the intention of trading him for Beasley. His best usage is as a sixth man combo guard, which is what he'd be here.
Marreese Speights- Has gotten lost in Philly. Another guy like Brandan Wright who would likely be better as a role-player on a contender.
Robin Lopez- A defensive role-player that Phoenix might not be adverse to trading if they pick a center in this draft (say Enes Kanter if he slides).
Jason Thompson- The Kings are likely getting a top five pick, and if it ends up being someone like Perry Jones or Jared Sullinger Thompson will be the odd man out.
Jerryd Bayless- Rumour has it that the Raptors are working out a deal with a team in the late lottery to pick up an extra pick in exchange for a bag of Bargage. If they draft someone like Kemba Walker Bayless is likely available. Another possibility as a backup point/combo guard.
Jordan Crawford-This depends on the Wizards' draft. If they go for someone like Harrison Barnes at the top, and grab another swingman later, then Crawford cold be the odd man out. He's got potential as a SG in a Delonte West kind of way.
Courtney Lee/Terrence Williams- Barring a miracle along the lines of picking up the winning Powerball ticket this Saturday my poor Rockets are drafting late in the lottery of a less than stellar draft. They already have Luis Scola at the 4 and a project backing him, they're unlikely to pick up another. They have Kyle Lowry & Goran Dragic at the 1, so point guard's likely out.

By the time they draft it's likely that the highest upside players will be Colorado's Alec Burks, San Diego's Kawhi Leonard, and Texas' Jordan Hamilton. Which means that Houston's crowded 2/3 spot will be even more crowded. If they draft for need and reach for a center then they'll likely keep their present wings (Kevin Martin, Williams, Lee and Chase Buddinger). Then again, they have a pick coming from the Magic, and may choose to wait until the 20s before taking a flyer on a center. If they grab one of the high upside wings in the late lottery, then Lee and/or Williams will be available for the right price.


Draft Targets

This is a pretty bad draft. If they're interested in buying picks, they should do it in the second round when the price is cheaper.


Kenny Faried- Will float into the 20s because of the uncertainty surrounding him. He has no real offensive game that translates to the pros. He can score on lesser competition in college, but all he really does is get garbage buckets. Scouts love his physicals, but defensively Morehead State used him in the middle of a 2-3 zone, so no one knows how well he'll defend the perimeter, though he has the lateral quickness, ups, and length to be a terrifying one. In five years time he could be the next Ben Wallace, meaning that he could finish an NBA season averaging six points, ten boards and a couple of blocks a game. He clearly needs to beef up a little, as he's around 230, and will need to be closer to 250 to bang full time at the 4.
Reggie Jackson- Jackson is one of my favourite combo guards at the NCAA level, he's a project, but at 6'3" 210 with a freakish wingspan (I wouldn't be surprised to see him measure out at 6'9" or more) and room to fill out he can guard the 2, while having the lateral quickness (and length) to bother most point guards. Plus the strength to deal with guys like Williams, Westbrook & Rose.
Tobias Harris- A project player. An undersized PF, both vertically and horizontally. Nice length, but he's 6'8" and I'd be shocked if he weighed 215. He looks like he could use another 30-40lbs. On the other hand, has a real talent for taking his man off the dribble, and handles well for a PF. And manages to rebound well despite his lack of girth.
Jereme Richmond- A classic swingman, 6'6" 200lbs, great wingspan and explosiveness. Has some maturity issues, which make him a potential Tony Allen replacement in every sense. However, stepping in on a vet team would minimise those issues (hopefully) and leave them with a rock solid defensive roleplayer at the 2/3.
Tyler Honeycutt- A very versatile SF, handles well, passes well, has nice shooting mechanics, but needs to be more consistent. Shoots threes fairly well at the NCAA level, but not as effective inside the stripe. He also needs a dose of aggressiveness. He would do well to develop Pierce's mean streak.
Jeremy Tyler- A second round prospect they should take a long hard look at is Jeremy Tyler. He's a kid that could really benefit from being around Boston's vets. He's got the size/length to be a solid post defender. His immaturity worries a lot of teams, though, and he's struggled as a high schooler overseas. So he should go somewhere in the 30-45 range.
Renardo Sidney- Speaking of guys that could benefit from Boston's veteran atmosphere. If he does declare, he's another guy they should be looking at. He's the classic high risk/high reward player. If Doc and Boston's vets could get through to him, he has the ability to be an all star. He's a 6'9" face up forward with range on his jumper out to about 20'. He handles fairly well for his size. Studying the game under Garnett would be the best thing that ever happened to him. On the other hand, he reminds me a lot of Antoine Walker, gamewise.
Malcolm Lee- Another UCLA point guard lost in Ben Howland's offense. Russell Westbrook & Jrue Holiday turned out well after similar misusage. Lee's not at their level, obviously, but will probably be a better NBA player than UCLA one. He's got great size, length, quickness and handles. He'd be a great Tony Allen replacement, and probably pair very well with West in the backcourt.
Iman Shumpert- Another scoring combo guard. Raw, but with good size and quickness. I'm not enthralled with him, but he'd likely fit well here.
Isaiah Thomas- I like Isaiah a lot more than most. Essentially a Nate Robinson replacement. In other words, a 5'8" guard that loves to shoot, but who can pile up points quickly when he's hot.
Jon Leuer- Think Steve Novack or Matt Bonner. A solid floor-stretching PF.
JaJuan Johnson- Yes this draft is really that weak.

[nighthob]

Z-Bo gets 4/71 from Memphis, so I'm betting that Gasol is available if Heisley doesn't like the price.

[texascelticsfan]

Z-Bo gets 4/71 from Memphis, so I'm betting that Gasol is available if Heisley doesn't like the price.

One playoff win and they cave on the player option, only with chris wallace. Completely agree on Gasol, but he looked strong enough yesterday to get too much money tossed his way. Esp if Cuban gets involved.

I can't believe Memphis gave him that much, its unbelievable. Basically like 35 mil per year over the next 4 years in just Zach Randolph and Rudy Gay. We havent even discussed Mike Conley.

[nighthob]

The Z-Bo contract leaves them around $54 million before Marc Gasol & filling out the roster, so I'd say that Boston has an opening here. They might even be able to make the O'Neal/Bradley swap directly since the Grizz will want a center to plug in behind Randolph, Gay, & Conley.

[CaptChris]

You guys have done a great job of outlining the players who might be available to the Celtics. All that is available factual material.

But you are getting into a whole of what if's and yah-buts which are fuzzy reasoning, since you don't have factual stuff on the Celtic's owners intentions.

So much more is based strictly on the CBA and how that comes out.

The team has changed so many bodies over the last couple of years, anything is possible.

[nighthob]

Given how well Memphis has played with Gasol & Randolph taking over as the top scoring options, I wonder if the Grizz would be amenable to moving Rudy Gay this summer to facilitate a re-signing of Marc Gasol, because he's played his way into an eight figure salary this playoff season.

[texascelticsfan]

I saw a Z-Bo interview where he said that while Gasol coming back was not guaranteed when he re-signed he would be EXTREMELY disappointed if he wasnt back. I think Tony Allen has played Gay out of town and provided Randolph does not ruin any potential wedding/engagement for Marc, that Gasol will be in town for awhile.

But the newfound distaste for Kobe that Pau has, means he could be out of LALA land soon. I think he's worth consideration, even at 31.

[nighthob]

Pau is the second best Gasol in the NBA, and maybe the third best Gasol brother. Also one of my least favourite NBA players. It would pain me to root for him. On the other hand, if the price is Jeff Green & filler, and part of a three way deal, I'd be more amenable. Or even combined with the Clippers #1 for Howard when he goes on the market. As for Gay, I suspect that Memphis may think themselves better off with defense/secondary scoring on the wings and pounding opponents with Gasol & Randolph (it's been a pretty successful formula for them). Gay taking over at the 3 with Pierce moving to swingman/starting 2 and Ray to the bench would make the Celtics a pretty formidable squad. It would certainly punish Miami's defense a lot more than the current lineup does.

[hurdler]

I keep thinking back to the story about when ainge was a player and he said they should break up the big three before they get too old and don't get anything in return. Now ainge has a big three. Lockout and CBA shorten the season. A team that gets off to a good start wants to roll the dice for a championship. We have 2 expiring contracts, vets, championship experience, still viable. Ainge has a great shot at taking his own advice and get something out of the three before it's too late.

I think you gotta offer baby market value, but not stupid money. KG's days are numbered and if he really is that good, prove it. Green on the other hand I'd look to S&T because pierce is the SF. He will keep good young players on the bench just like Dumars did in detroit, refusing to get bad. Young and athletic is the key with Rondo pushing the pace.

[hurdler]

who would have thought that both Tony Allen and Perkins would be playing longer in the playoffs than the celtics this year?

[davidkkt]

Our GM already showed desire to sign Jeff Green again. West is definitely staying with Celtics.

[texascelticsfan]

West could end up on the Heat next year, I hope he sticks with the C's though.

Heisley is saying Rudy is not going anywhere, so maybe Gasol is available:

Gay: The Grizzlies are keeping him. Period. Full stop.

"Rudy is one of our best players and a big part of what we plan to do in the future," Heisley said.

Marc Gasol: Heisley intends to sign him. He's said this multiple times. He's also said, however, that "Marc has to want to be here." It's unclear what this means, honestly, because Gasol is a restricted free agent. The Grizzlies could match any offer Gasol receives from another team whether he wants to be in Memphis or not. So nobody can quite figure out why Heisley is tacking on the "want to be here" caveat these days.

"Basically, I'm not going to sit and pay a contract which everyone says is ridiculous," said Heisley, Monday. "But my intention is to bring Marc back. If he wants to be here, he will find I will be very, very receptive."

[nighthob]

Excellent, so Gasol is available.

[CaptChris]

they won't let Gasol go. The fans would hang them.

Sure would look nice in Green though.

[nighthob]

I just can't see the Grizzlies paying the luxury tax, and the owner's ambivalent remarks about Gasol seem to reflect that. Also the rumours of Gay to Cleveland for #1 & #4 also seem indicative of Heisley's reluctance to pay to keep a winning squad together.

[Bogg]

I get the feeling it's time for a MAJOR move, along the lines of going after a top guy, when one becomes available, with a package of something like Rondo, Jeff Green, and three first-round picks(the Clips plus two of the C's) plus whatever cap relief we can reasonably offer. Doing nothing is committing to a multi-season rebuilding project beginning the season after next. I'd hate to see Pierce's last season be one where he breaks down trying to carry a 32-win team to 40 wins and an eight seed.

[texascelticsfan]

If jackie mac is right an KG is retiring, things could be entirely different.

[CaptChris]

It is so difficult that 3 Chinese guys with an abacus couldn't figure out all the ramifications.

Without checking -- Celts can't figure out if a guy is going to be their Aunt or their Uncle.

At least let's come out with a TALL Aunt or Uncle.

Enough of this Combo -- Tweener -- STUD.

[Southern Celtic]

Here's an extreme move... Atlanta has shown interest in trading away Josh Smith. He has two years left on his contract... What about a trade offer of Pierce and our first round pick. Atlanta has been showing signs of making it far into the playoffs but they are really a scorer away from being that team. Pierce would fill that scoring gap and the draft pick would help even out the fact they are taking on an aged veteran.

On the Celtics end they would re-sign Green and find a serviceable center and have a starting five that includes Rondo, Allen, Green, Smith and ???

If the ownership breaks the bank and makes a move for Gasol, then we would have a starting five of: Rondo, Allen, Green, Smith and Gasol. From there I say that if the money is right, re-sign Delonte West and Big Baby. Garnett and Allen would have a chance to come off the bench and rest thier aged bodies in this scenario.

[nighthob]

Why would Boston give up its primary scorer to get a defensive roleplayer? Don't get me wrong, I'd love to see Josh Smith in Boston (and he, by all reports, wants to play here). But Boston would be forced to gut out 66-64 wins night in and night out because the only guy on the floor that could shoot the basketball would be Ray. No thanks. Jeff Green for Josh? Sign me up. As that's about the best the Hawks can do, they may as well do it. Or, alternatively, a three way with Green going elsewhere and Smith coming here.

[ricciking13]

i´m new here :D i´m from portugal and i love the Celtics
In a sport site was a report that Dwight Howard will not renew his contract with Orlando so the super man can come to TD Garden

[Southern Celtic]

Paul Piece really only averaged a few points more than Smith last year. In his advanced age, and with Doc talking about lessening minutes to preserve the big three, I wouldn't expect Pierce to produce much more than 18 PPG.

If the Celtic brass doesn't do something to help rebuild and strengthen this team NOW, we might as well be looking at another 20 year drought like at the end of the previous big threes reign. To do that we have to jettison one or two of the current big three and make a splash in free agency.

If we learned anything, defense gets you far into the playoffs. That is Smith's strong suit. Couple him with a solid big man like Marc Gasol and we have a good foundation. Hell, we aren't going to be picking up any superstars in free agency. Smith and Gasol are about as high of talent as we will get for what we have.

[nighthob]

Pierce is the only player on the Celtics that Boston can turn to for guaranteed buckets. Literally. He's also the only other player, along with Allen, capable of stretching the floor on the roster. Smith is purely transition offense. He's a terrible shooter. Last year Boston struggled through fourth quarters of close games as teams packed the paint against their many offensively challenged players. Removing the only complete offensive player on the roster is a disaster in the making. The Celtics would average about 4 p/g in the fourth quarter, so if they didn't amass a 20+ point in the first three quarters they'd be cooked. And given that the only guy capable of stretching the floor is in his late 30s, they wouldn't be amassing any 20 point leads.

You need a primary scorer that can command a double team. Pierce is the only guy like that on Boston's roster. Smith does not command a double team. Christ, in fourth quarters Rondo can't even buy a defender. Unless they're dealing Rondo for Williams or Paul there's zero sense in trading their only capable scorer for a defensive roleplayer.

[Southern Celtic]

I agree it would be more beneficial to trade Rondo for a scoring point like Deron or Paul rather than give up Pierce. If we could do it, that would be the better way to go. Unfortunatly I don't see that happening.

Pierce is out only big money tradeable asset we have. We need to get younger. I would take the lack of offense in a Pierce/Smith trade as it would make the team younger, more atheletic, and more defensive minded. All I am saying here is that we need to bite the bullet and make a big move in order to avoid growing old/growing stagnant.

[nighthob]

If you're intending suck for a high draft pick, why take half measures? If you're going to create a team that will score 65 points a game, you need to be getting multiple unprotected firsts from a team that has a good chance at imploding. Not a defensive roleplayer.

[Southern Celtic]

If you're intending suck for a high draft pick, why take half measures? If you're going to create a team that will score 65 points a game, you need to be getting multiple unprotected firsts from a team that has a good chance at imploding. Not a defensive roleplayer.

Notice you said the word "team." One player does not make a team. making this move would simply be the first step of many steps. Pierce isn't a spring chicken, and his body has been abused by carrying this team all these years. If you want to bank your teams offense on that man alone, then we are in worse straights than I figured!

The Celtics have said they weren't interested in Smith today. So that takes him out of the equation, but my point is, building a team with a strong defensive core is a solid strategy. Sure, we could build around Pierce. But two years from now we will have a broken down version of the captain who once carried this team and we will be looking to replace him only to find no suitors. Buy low, sell high. Smith is young, atheletic and a very good defender. Is he someone who could captain a team? No. But there are plenty of free agents that we could make a move for who could fill pierce's scoring void. Jamal Crawford and Jason Richardson are two such players... I don't know if you can't stand Smith, or if you are playing devils advocate, or if you just can't see the forest for the trees when it comes to building a team. Either way, This team needs to get young - quick - and intelligently.

[nighthob]

For a team to be successful, it needs to be able to score the ball. All defense and zero offense isn't the winning formula. When your starting lineup has no one that can command a double team, it gets real easy to defend. When one of those guys can't score from more than six feet away, it means that there's actually a spare defender around to doubleteam guys that don't need to be double teamed. Every game would be one long playoff fourth quarter where the Celtics desperately struggle to outscore the opponent 8-6.

I will never, for the life of me, understand the desperation of some of you people to get rid of a future hall of famer that's bled to win a title here. And not even to improve the team, but to make it worse.

[Southern Celtic]

NBA basketball is now a business. If we were shrewd in dealing the original big three we wouldn't have had a 20 year title drought.

Paul Pierce has had a brilliant career for the Celtics. Hall of famer for sure. He is at the end of his career. Time to replace him before his trade value becomes nil.

You are blind to what I am saying. READ. I'm talking about rebuilding a TEAM with PLAYERS. Multiple PLAYERS. You need to look beyond Pierce for Smith. That was simply one suggestion. For the third time, trade out some of the old before they become untradeable. This can be done without hurting our immediate future.

[nighthob]

Yes, but why trade him to make the team worse, but not bad enough to acquire a high draft pick? Want to create a team that sucks? Fine. But no half measures. And no, you're not talking about "rebuilding a team" because you apparently think it's a good idea to put three guys into a starting lineup that, literally, can't shoot a basketball. You sound like the underwear gnomes on South Park "Step 1, gather underwear, step 2.... step 3, profit!"

[Southern Celtic]

Yes, but why trade him to make the team worse, but not bad enough to acquire a high draft pick?!"

Why trade him to make the team worse??? There are better players available in trade out there than Paul Pierce. Stop putting Pierce on a pedestal. He is a mere shadow of the player he was even two years ago.

I should have never mentioned specific players because you can't get past names. Forget the names I mentioned for a minute because there are plenty of players available in trade or free agency that would help this team. You are blind to what I am saying. READ. I'm talking about rebuilding a TEAM with PLAYERS. Multiple PLAYERS. For the FOURTH time, trade out some of the old players while they have value and before they become untradeable.

[nighthob]

Yes, but Josh Smith isn't one of them. He's a defensive roleplayer that literally can't shoot a basketball. I love Josh Smith, but there's that gigantic weakness in his game. You can't trade the only complete offensive player on your entire roster for a defensive roleplayer. Especially when your point guard also, literally, can not shoot a basketball. You simply can't put Rondo and Smith on the floor together, which is a gigantic problem when you're proposing that those guys be the centerpieces of your team. Trading Rondo for a point guard with a complete offensive game? Then sure, with Paul or Deron Williams running the offense you can live with giving away your primary scorer for a defensive roleplayer (though it would still be a pretty foolish move, especially as the Hawks are essentially looking for a salary dump, there's no need to give away the store, but whatever). But you can't make your two centerpieces guys with no game outside eight feet. That's a recipe for being the 15th best team in the NBA for years to come.

[Southern Celtic]

Ughh... ARE YOU READING MY RESPONSES OR JUST ANSWERING WHAT IS PLAYING IN YOUR HEAD??? I have said to take Smith out of the equation in my last three responses!

We will have to agree to disagree on Smith. And the Celtics don't want him anyways so he is a moot point.

We will see what you have to say when the Celtics fail to make the 2013 playoffs though. Man, we should have used Pierce as trade bait before his decline... Why didn't we learn our lesson from the decline of the previous big three???

[nighthob]

If Rondo is the future hall of famer that you guys like to claim he is, how can Boston fall out of the 2013 playoffs? An all time great player has to be good for 40 wins, no?

And the real problem is that rebuilding squads generally don't have interest in wing players nearing the end of the line. The teams that line up for those guys are teams on the cusp of winning titles, and they generally don't have a lot to offer except Delonte West-level talent. The Celtics already missed the boat on trading one of the big three when the owners nixed any trade of Ray in 2010. They might be able to trade him now after the new CBA is signed (because he'll be an expiring deal again), but their golden opportunity passed them by a year and a half ago.

[Southern Celtic]

Rondo, an all star or not, cannot carry a team to 40 wins by himself. It is about team...

You may be right about Pierce to an extent.

[nighthob]

I mean, you can trade him to a team like Dallas interested in defending its title, but all you're getting back is the slightly younger, oft-injured, not nearly as good version of Pierce (Caron Butler). LA would be willing to trade the 30something Odom for Pierce. Orlando would deal for him, but all you're getting there is Turkeyglue and flotsam.

[CaptChris]

Wow! It seems that Paul Pierce has little or no value to anyone but the Celtics. Is that Right?

If you want to trade him -- now is the time. His numbers look good, but the wheels are starting to sow high mileage. His value is going to down each year.

Of course we won't. It is the Bird -- Parish -- McHale thing all over again. OUCH!

[nighthob]

No, he has little value to rebuilding teams, and lots of value to contenders. Problem is that most contenders don't have or won't trade up & coming stars for vets (as the idea is to add to your all stars, not give them away). So what ends up happening is that you unload Kevin Garnetts for deeply flawed players like Al Jefferson or Ray Allens for the fifth pick in a three player draft. Or perhaps a sign & trade for the oft injured Caron Butler and Roddy Beaubois. Or a defensive roleplayer like Josh Smith.

Realistically that's what Boston's looking at, and no realistic scenario that you could come up with would either drop Boston to the bottom for a top five pick in '12 or improve them as they are. So what's the point? They're better off trying to add to what they have than trying to offload their best offensive player in hopes that they can repackage what they get for someone better.

[CaptChris]

A very realistic answer, but it doesn't solve the problem. PP is going down -- not up. He is going to slip and the injuries are coming. It is a fact of life.

So the trouble is that you can't get enough to boost the Celtics. Player minimum guys aren't going to Win a Championship. You have to find the sucker team that wants him to Win the Title. They want to Win now, no matter the cost in the future.

I lived through a crippled Bird -- a crippled McHale -- a healty Parish -- and half a lifetime of watching Celtic bums. All because Celtic owners wouldn't make the moves necessary to keep the team competative.

That was when many teams wanted Bird -- McHale -- Parish.

[nighthob]

They had their chance in 2010 when Ray Allen was an expiring $19 million deal. He and Rondo would have made a hugely attractive package that they could have used to rebuild on the fly. But they missed the boat. Pierce won't be an expiring for another couple of years, so now he's most valuable to teams with the least to trade. Garnett & Ray have value as expiring deals, but Garnett fills a very real role on this club that they can't replace yet, so you really don't want to be dealing him.

At this point Rondo for CP3 (with enough filler to facilitate Okafor coming with CP3) looks like the best available upgrade to Boston, and presuming they got Paul to sign an extension their best hope of rebuilding on the fly going forward.

[fan from afar]

I just read through this thread for the first time. I said to myself after losing to the Heat that it will be interesting to see if Boston (Ainge) can rebuild over the next few years and still stay competitive. I personally can't imagine trading any of the current big three, or any of the last big three - Bird not a Celtic?!? The winning formula is somehow picking up a good young player each year or so, and KG and Ray (and PP) staying for less money as they age, acting as mentors, accepting a lesser role, and then retiring as Celtics. The Celts had a good start on that with the last big 3 with Len Bias. Maybe Green will be the start of the new Celtics. I personally have no illusions that the draftees could be anything more than role players.

I really think this team can win this year. If Rondo isn't hurt, we maybe (probably?) beat Miami. I would really hate to see any of the big 3 traded and would rather try to rebuild around them. And, whoever it was that said KG is not to be traded is absolutely correct. He certainly has value to a contender, but WE are a contender. He is the heart and soul of this team.