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.
Mickael Pietrus, recently released by the Phoenix Suns, is leaning "heavily" towards signing with the Boston Celtics, according to a league source.
Pietrus must first clear waivers — that won't happen until 6 p.m. Saturday — but it's highly unlikely that any team will want to pick up the $5.3 million he is owed this season.
The 6-foot-6 wing forward has been a player that Danny Ainge, Boston's president of basketball operations, has expressed interest in acquiring in the past.
In addition, Pietrus is a player who one league executive said would be "a great fit" for the Celtics.
The 29-year-old Pietrus (6-6, 215) would be a huge addition to the bench. He can score and defend. He's a veteran with playoff experience. While he struggled mightily last season, I am supremely confident that Doc Rivers can push the right buttons.
For those unfamiliar with his game, here's John Hollinger's analysis:
+ Talented wing who can shoot, defend and finish. Has skills to be great defender.
+ Held back by mental game and poor handle. Turnover- and mistake-prone.
+ Gaining a rep for selfish play. Will take poor shots. Rarely passes.
This won't be a "tilt the power in the East" type of move. But if Danny Ainge can get Pietrus to sign on the dotted line, I will feel a lot better about the Celtics depth.
Pietrus was traded to Toronto earlier this month, but the deal was rescinded due to knee swelling. Sherrod Blakely says the knee no longer appears to be an issue.
Related links: ESPN Boston – Should Cs pursue Pietrus?
Poll: How would you feel if the Celtics signed Pietrus?
On Page 2, what's the deal with Paul Pierce?
“We won’t ask him to do anything until (tomorrow) and see what he can do,” said Doc Rivers after a practice that lasted close to three hours. “And then if he can play (against the Knicks), we may play him. If he can play, we’ll play him. We may not even start him. But we don’t know any of that until (tomorrow).”
As for what can be expected from Pierce after he’s missed virtually all of training camp, Rivers said, “He won’t know any plays, but I do know when he shoots the ball they go in.
“But, really, Paul knows what we do for the most part, and if (C’s trainer) Eddie (Lacerte) gives him clearance, he’s giving him clearance because he thinks he can play.”
I'm guessing Pierce will come off the bench and play 20 minutes. Will he be effective? If Bill Walker is guarding him, then yes.
Related links: ESPN Boston – Pierce gets up shots |
The rest of the links:
ESPN Boston: Ray Allen on Christmas, new year | Season predictions | KG not worried about future | Rondo reflects | Herald – Big 3 gear up for another title run | Celtics will keep trainers busy all year | Ainge keeps his balance | CSNNE – Celtics preview: Window watchers | Cs 3 point attempts down with Pierce out | Globe – Staff NBA picks | Globe – Pierce has time to add to legacy | Garnett focus on today | Rivers had long term plan |
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