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.
The deal originally had Phoenix and New Orleans as facilitators, but that came apart late yesterday afternoon Pacific time. Late last night, Portland became the third team and Pavlovic was included. The amended details were still being learned as the Herald’s final print deadline passed, but the Celts will clearly be ecstatic to acquire the coveted 6-foot-5 Lee without disturbing their main rotation.
Because the move is a sign and trade, Lee will be able to get right around the $5 million midlevel exception the club used on Jason Terry. The C’s had been trying to make the Terry deal a sign and trade to keep the slot open for Lee, but it appears they have found another way to get him the money he was seeking as a free agent.
“We think Courtney’s a good fit for us, yeah,” said Ainge. “He’s a good player. He’s a both ends of the court player. He can shoot, can defend and he runs. Good fit for us.”
Herald – C’s acquire Lee, send four packing
Two thumbs up on this deal. I can’t see any reason to oppose. The Celtics are locked and loaded for Phase II of the new Big 3 era. This will be our team for the next 3-4 years. It’s a good blend of veterans, youth and athleticism. Of course, everything goes to sh*t if any KG or Rondo get hurt.
Lee may not be the clutch three-point shooter that Ray Allen is, but he can defend. Remember the 2009 playoff series vs Orlando? The scorching hot Allen was stopped cold by Lee (and JJ Redick).
Lee commented on the deal early this morning, via Twitter:
Want to thank all the ppl in Houston friends and fans enjoyed my time. Also would like to thank all the Cs fan for the love
As for the departure of JaJuan Johnson, Gary Washburn has this:
Johnson, the Celtics’ first-round pick in 2011, never established a role, and his lack of development privately bothered some team officials. He struggled in stretches during summer league, and with the signings of Chris Wilcox, Jeff Green, and the drafting of Jared Sullinger, he was expendable.
Good luck, JJJ.
The rest of the links:
ESPN Boston – Short handed Cs reflect on absences | Melo hurts hand, will get x-ray | Rivers: Our summer’s been good | Doc talks Bradley’s rehab, Pierce’s knee | Hollins signs with Clippers | Globe – Doc Rivers likes what Celtics are doing | Herald – Green’s agent thinks he’s underpaid | Yahoo! – Perk has surgery on wrist |
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