C'mon man…. You had to know better than to think Rajon Rondo mentions in connection with Chris Paul would die simply because the Celtics don't seem to have any other tradeable assets.
Paul has not reversed field regarding wanting out of New Orleans. Initially blessed with overriding leverage and exhilarating options, CP$’s, relocation program has narrowed to the Celtics (Rajon Rondo continues to be available) and the Warriors (NOLA wants Monta Ellis, Andris Biedrins and rookie Klay Thompson).
Of course, there’s always the chance a phantom team will scamper across the road in front of the Hornets like a deer in late fall dusk?
More likely, the fortified Clippers will resurface and turn over Eric Gordon (asking between $13-$15M per to extend long-term), Chris Kaman (closing out contract at $12.7M), Eric Bledsoe, Al-Farouq Aminu and Minnesota’s 2012 first-round real estate.
Things to remember here:
- Danny Ainge still wants Chris Paul
- Recently signed players are not eligible to be traded, so Jeff Green, our two rookies, Chris Wilcox, Marquis Daniels, & Sasha Pavlovic are out.
Those two things are diametrically opposed to one another, so Danny would have to get other teams involved. And other teams that may have been trade partners have also moved on. So while Rajon Rondo may still, theoretically, be available, it's as unlikely as ever that anything gets done.
The real rumors exist out in LA, where both Los Angles teams are making a push for Chris Paul. The Clippers have better assets on their own, but the Lakers have good players that a third team might want. The Lakers are reportedly making a strong push for Paul rather than Dwight Howard… it will be interesting to see what transpires over the next few days.
So despite Peter Vescey trying to include Boston… and despite Danny probably wanting to be included… I think Rondo stays here.
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