Every morning, we compile the links of the day and dump them here… highlighting the big story line. Because there’s nothing quite as satisfying as a good morning dump.
“I knew that where we are now was a possibility when we came into this year,” Ainge said. “But I was hopeful last summer that we could acquire some more guys and build a more veteran-like team that was more ready to win sooner. But we weren’t able to do it.”
Then, according to league sources, the Celts found a limited market for both Rondo and Green, and Brandon Bass, despite some interest from other clubs and the fact he has become a very solid performer, has yet to attract any serious offers.
“I just felt like it was sort of a timeline thing with the players that we had, the uncertainty of the future and free agency,” Ainge told the assembled pens, microphones and cameras before the Celtics met New Orleans last night. “And I felt like we were getting good value in return based on these contract situations.”
Prior to last night’s win over New Orleans, Danny Ainge shed some light on the reasoning behind his recent flurry of deals. The logic is pretty simple: the Celtics want something in return for guys who aren’t going to be around next season and beyond. Like it or not, conditional picks in the late 1st round are the best we’re going to get for these guys.
I still think Danny Ainge will find a taker for Bass. While he can’t shoot the three or protect the rim, Brandon does a lot of things well. His solid mid-range game helps space the floor and the guy can (sometimes) defend 3 positions. And one of Bass’ best attributes is his consistency. By the trade deadline, Bass will be moved for 2nd round picks.
Speaking of picks, Ainge has a message for anyone not enamored with the Celtics cache of draft picks:
Ainge argued that one cannot have too many picks.
“No, because draft picks are always tradable; players are not (always tradable). Draft picks are always assets,” he said, before adding with a grin, “Until sometimes they’re drafted. Until they become players. Or until they become paid.”
As for the newly acquired Tayshaun Prince and Austin Rivers, there’s not much new to report. Ainge will talk with Prince about a buyout of his $7 million salary. For all the chatter about wanting to play for a contender, players rarely give back much in buyout situations. Maybe the Celtics can find some common ground with Prince. As for Rivers, everyone expects him to move back in with Dad in LA. I believe the hang-up is finding a 3rd team to throw in a player with an expiring contract.
Related links: CSNNE – Uncertainty of future a factor in Green trade | No buyout decision until Prince, Ainge meet | Williams emotional over departure of Rivers | ESPN Boston – Too many picks? Ainge says no such thing
On Page 2, KG wanted to f-up Dwight Howard last night.
The back-and-forth escalated when Garnett threw the ball at Howard, and then charged with head-butting intentions. After the two were separated, Garnett walked demonstrably around the court while holding his head, as if talking himself into avoiding further action. He made another turn towards Howard after the situation cooled, failing to get close to his opponent.
“I’m going to —- this —– up,” Garnett shouted.
Garnett was clearly the aggressor, but the Nets — specifically Joe Johnson — expressed surprise that Howard wasn’t also ejected.
Everything after the headbutt was a Golden Globe worthy performance.
The rest of the links:
CSNNE – Crowder, Sullinger lead C’s past Pelicans | Herald – Crowder blossoms with Garden roots | Celtics get offensive | Globe – Ainge intent on finding leadership | ESPN Boston – Stevens bad memory of Prince | WEEI – 6 things we learned in Celtics victory
