A. Sherrod Blakely of CSNNE explores some trade options for the Celtics:
Rasheed Wallace to Houston in exchange
for Shane Battier:
Battier's salary for 2010-2011 season:
$7.35 million
Years remaining on current contract: 1Why this works for Boston: Battier
gives the C's a veteran presence who can defend small forwards at a
comparable level to the departed Tony Allen (signed with Memphis earlier
this month); is in the last year of his contract which means the C's
won't have to make a long-term commitment which is consistent with the
Celtics' approach to offseason additions this summer; one of the more
respected players in the league, would be a good fit inside the C's
locker room.Why this works
for Houston: With the Rockets inching close to the luxury tax
threshold following a brisk offseason, trading Battier for Wallace would
save them at least $1 million in salary; Houston has Kevin Martin,
Trevor Ariza and Chase Budinger in the fold, creating what appears to be
a logjam of sorts at the small forward position when you throw Battier
in the mix.
Battier would be a spectacular addition for the Celtics. It's a no brainer. The only problem – there have been no credible reports linking the Celtics and Rockets to trade talks.
Blakely includes James Posey and Nazr Mohammed as other trade possibilities for the Celtics.
