The Celtics have now started their rebuilding phase and there are sure to be a ton of rumors and stories coming out of Boston until the next regular season starts.
Reports suggest that Boston may pick up the $15 million option veteran forward Paul Pierce, but according ESPN’s Marc Stein, the Celtics want a first round pick in exchange for trading Pierce.
The Celtics do remain hopeful of acquiring a first-round pick for Pierce this week in conjunction with Thursday’s draft. But sources said the Celtics have shown an inclination to try to work with Pierce to get him to a favorable destination — which essentially translates to a contending team — if they indeed decide to trade him by week’s end. The team faces a June 30 deadline to either pick up Pierce’s $15.3 million option for next season or buy him out for $5 million.
It remains to be seen if any teams would be willing to give up a first round pick for a 35-year-old Paul Pierce with one year remaining on his current deal.