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.
According to sources, there were several reasons for the delay in getting things done.
Green’s representative, David Falk, reported there were issues with the new collective bargaining agreement. But, in general, the parties just found the side issues were more complicated than expected once they agreed on the basic parameters of a four-year deal totaling some $36 million.
Also, according to a player source, there were insurance issues to tackle. Green missed last season after having surgery to repair an aortic aneurysm.
While doctors have told the club there is less risk to Green’s career with this procedure than if he’d had a torn meniscus in his knee — and both player and club are confident he is healthy — there were hoops to jump through with the insurance situation.
In the Celtics’ statement announcing the signing, president of basketball operations Danny Ainge said, “We are thrilled to be able to have Jeff back with the Celtics. Jeff’s versatility on offense and ability to guard players out on the perimeter is something that we are looking forward to having on the court this season.”
I knew the snag had to be caused by insurance. The parameters of the new CBA didn’t significantly delay any of the other dozens of NBA contracts from being finalized.
My favorite part of this story… Ainge’s quote about Jeff Green’s “ability to guard players out on the perimeter.” I’m hoping Green plays 95% of his minutes at small forward. He just seems out of place at power forward.
Related links: CSNNE – Celtics re-sign Green | ESPN Boston – Jeff Green’s Celtics deal official | WEEI – The wait is over
The rest of the links:
ESPN Boston – Summer forecast: The X-factor | Boston.com – Pierce to great shoppers at Pru
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