Sports Illustrated's Sam Amick has taken the Rajon Rondo trade rumors to the next level:
Ainge, the sources say, has recently discussed trading Rondo in a deal that nets Paul, but the Hornets don't appear interested in a two-team deal in which Rondo — who has four years worth approximately $46 million left on his contract — and Paul would switch places. So Ainge has been on the prowl for a third team that could provide the sort of young pieces Hornets general manager Dell Demps would covet as part of his possible rebuilding plan. The more pressing question, of course, is whether Paul, who can become a free agent after this season, would consider signing an extension with Boston.
While ESPN reports that New York tops Paul's wish list because of the chance to form a Big Three with Amar'e Stoudemire and Carmelo Anthony, Paul would have a chance to take the Big Four — joining Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, Ray Allen — to a new level in Beantown. Without Paul agreeing to an extension, however, the sources say Ainge will not do the deal.
Rajon Rondo isn't enough for Dell Demps? He's a budding superstar with a manageable contract. I'm not sure what else Demps is looking for, considering everyone knows Paul wants out of New Orleans.
I think Paul is a dynamic offensive player and I've supported this trade in the past. For all the talk of Paul's health, he's played in at least 78 games in 4 of 6 seasons.
What else does Demps want? How about a 6-9 bulky power forward to replace David West?
Stay tuned…
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