According to several sources here at the NBA’s All-Star Weekend, the Celtics are heavily involved, at least in terms of discussions, on a number of fronts as both a main participant and as a facilitator. As yet, however, there has been nothing truly available that is worthy of their top assets.
“Danny’s let it be known that he’s willing to talk about the Nets’ picks,” said one league executive, referencing the first-rounders owed by Brooklyn this year (in a swap of first-round positions between the Celts and Nets) and next (unencumbered). “But (if) you want one of those guys, you have to be willing to give up a star.”
And, apparently, a star who can’t break free this summer or after a year. Ainge has said he doesn’t want to take on any rentals, and opposing front offices are supporting that statement — with a caveat. The Celts will take a shot on a short-term player if the price is right, but that has not yet been the case. The C’s did investigate the Serge Ibaka situation, but word is they didn’t want to give up a lot when there is no guarantee they’d be willing to meet his price when he becomes a free agent this offseason.
One very large key in the Celtic thinking is the free agent market. It has become clear from sources that the club doesn’t want to make any move that could take away its chances to do business in the summer when all it could cost for a marquee player is cap space.
The belief here is that Ainge would, indeed, pull the trigger on a deal for a player such as Jimmy Butler or Paul George — should either become available — because such a talent would be their de facto free agent signing. But absent that, all indications are that he will continue to work the edges and maintain flexibility. (And it should be noted that Chicago and Indiana would rather build around those players than move them.)
Topic: Latest: Woj thinks Butler could wind up in Boston before deadline (Read 29182 times)