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.

If the Celtics cannot get Love, they are planning to continue with the longer and more methodical rebuilding process, a process that would likely see Rajon Rondo traded. (An NBA source said they would also have a taker for Jeff Green if they chose to move him.)

[…] So far, according to a source, they have offered the Nos. 6 and 17 picks in this year’s draft, Kelly Olynyk and one of their own future No. 1 picks. They also own two more first-rounders from the Nets and one from the Clippers after this season, and the Celts are said to be certainly willing to discuss different combinations of their assets.

Herald: Celtics waiting game is a labor of Love

First of all, there is zero doubt in my mind that however this ends up, Minnesota is going to get the worst of it.  I’m already calling Minnesota the loser in the whatever Keven Love trade materializes.

Secondly, I fail to see the merits of further extending the rebuild by trading Rondo away unless it nets the Celtics a star at a different position and more future assets.  In my opinion, making Rondo available should get teams to react the same way as they’re reacting to Kevin Love’s availability.  Considering Rondo’s very consistent public stance (which he continued yesterday on ESPN) of wanting to stay and lead this team to another title, I’d say this “likely” scenario isn’t as likely as presented.  I’m on board with Rondo trade scenarios that make sense, but I haven’t heard one since the Chris Paul pursuit a few years ago.

As for the offer…

I’d be psyched if the Celtics could keep Sullinger.  They’d certainly bet a pretty good rebounding team if that happened. I like the scenario in which the Celtics trade for Love without giving up Sullinger, use the TPE acquired from the Paul Pierce deal to get Omer Asik, and bring Sully off the bench.  That may not be very likely, though.

This really all hinges on what kind of deal Minnesota will want.  If they want the best player, they’ll figure something out with Golden State.  If they want the best package of picks, Love will be a Celtic.

Of course, we’re focusing on reports and sources.  Don’t be shocked if Phoenix swoops in with a package out of the blue and steals Love away.  Very often, it’s the team no one is talking about that’s quietly getting the best deal done behind the scenes.

Related links:  Globe: Warriors considered front-runners for Love  |  ESPN Boston: Warriors add Thompson to Love talks  | WEEI:  The official Celtics-centric Kevin Love timeline

Page 2:  Pat Riley gives an epic press conference

Love him or hate him, Pat Riley’s news conference yesterday in the wake of Miami’s loss was flat-out awesome.  You can watch this whole half hour, or if you’re busy, just watch the first seven minutes.  Fair warning, if you stop at seven minutes, you’ll miss the Flashdance, Johnny Walker Blue, and James Ingram references.

Look… I’m no fan of Riles at all.  He’s been behind my two least favorite teams ever.  But this news conference was just spectacular.

Related links:  Globe: Riley says Heat have to keep team together

And Finally….

These are the new Hornets jerseys.  For those who don’t know, Charlotte went back to being the Hornets this year.  I like these… nice, clean, simple…. well done.

The rest of the links:

Herald:  Vonleh’s work ethic, rebounding, temp Magic  |  Ron Adams still in limbo  |  Globe:  Embiid to have foot surgery Friday  |  Ron Adams expected to stay  |  CSNNE:  Mannix: “Terrifying” part of Embiid injury  |  Embiid injury a good break for Celtics  |  ESPN Boston:  Notebook: Embiid’s injury & C’s   |  Glimpse into setting C’s draft board  |  Mass Live:  Austin Ainge on rumors: “We ignore absolutely all of it”