The Globe’s Gary Washburn has an “update” on Paul Pierce’s situation:
The Celtics have to decide by June 30 whether to buy out Pierce’s contract at $5 million. Ainge said the sides have not had discussions, but an NBA source said Pierce’s family is already beginning to prepare for relocation from Boston, assuming the Celtics will execute the buyout or trade his expiring contract in the offseason.
Pierce struggled mightily during the playoffs, and Ainge was asked whether the longtime Celtic was injured.
“Paul’s always battling little things,” said Ainge. “I think Paul’s healthy, but he played so hard and carried such a heavy load.
“Paul had a terrific year this year, but in the playoffs, New York did a good job of taking away his strengths and taking advantage of some of our weaknesses. But I thought Paul had a terrific year.”
Add this to the growing number of reports/speculation that Paul Pierce will not be wearing a Celtics uniform next season.
I don’t envision moving boxes and tape strewn across the Pierce home. The Pierce’s can’t truly prepare for relocation until the Truth latches on with another team.
I’m not sure which way this will play out. As John stated previously, waiving Pierce saves $10 million, but the Celtics cannot divert that money to another player. The Celtics will only get real cap space if Pierce is waived AND Kevin Garnett retires.
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