Every morning, we compile the links of
the day and dump them here...
highlighting the big storyline. Because there's nothing quite as
satisfying as a good morning dump.
Boston Celtics GM Danny Ainge is trying to use Rasheed Wallace’s contract in trade talks, a move that would allow the Celtics to keep their midlevel exception, league sources said.
Wallace has yet to file retirement papers, so the $6.32 million owed him next season and $6.79 million in 2011-12 would come off a team’s books after Wallace is traded to them. They could do a deal and not take on his money. Ainge is trying to use the Wallace contract to bring back a power forward or center to replace Wallace and the injured Kendrick Perkins.
The Celtics could then use their midlevel exception for a different player. Several sources believe that Ainge’s target is Orlando’s J.J. Redick, who is a restricted free agent.
Boston has strong interest in Brad Miller in free agency and could try to acquire Dallas center Erick Dampier.
Whoa. There's a lot to digest. Let's start with the trading of Sheed's contract. I'm assuming this is an option because Wallace is walking away without asking for a buyout. If that's true, thank you Sheed. As for potential trade partners, I haven't heard a peep.
On to Redick... is he really worth the full MLE? He averaged 9 points in 22 minutes for the Magic. He can shoot (40% 3 FG), and as we've witnessed first hand the last few years in the playoffs, he can play harassing defense.
I'd love to see Redick coming off the Celtics bench (hey, I have a soft spot for d-bags), but the money concerns me. He made $2.8 million last season. It might take a full MLE offer. And this doesn't take into account that Orlando can match any offer.
On Page 2, the Cavs have interest in Ray Allen.
The Cavs are also believed to pursue in various shooting guards. Sources indicated the team planned to make contact with Ray Allen, Mike Miller and John Salmons. Allen, like Stoudemire and Bosh, would become more likely if James re-signs.
More than any other team, the Cavs can't make a single move before LeBron makes his decision.
The rest of the links:
Globe - Rivers wants one more try | Antoine pleads not guilty to writing bad checks | Herald - Celtics keep it together | Ainge checklist begins with Pierce | ESPN Boston - Same old Celtics? Not necessarily | ESPN - Scott to coach Cavs | Knicks, Nets tip off LBJ sweepstakes | Ian Thomsen - Pierce could join Mavericks? | Celtics Blog - How much does loyalty cost? |
