Your Morning Dump… Where the Celtics are looking for a trade partner

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 Boston Celtics discussed a possible trade for Caron Butler before the Washington Wizards decided to send him to Dallas. The Celtics also have inquired about the availability of Golden State Warriors guard Monta Ellis, Sacramento Kings guard Kevin Martin and Philadelphia 76ers swingman Andre Iguodala. None of the talks have become substantive.

The Celtics would likely include Ray Allen in any big deal, but have made it clear they want an upper-echelon young player in return, regardless of position.

The Celtics also reached out to the Phoenix Suns about Amar’e Stoudemire, but don’t have the means to get a deal done.

Marc Spears – Yahoo! Sports

Sounds like Danny Ainge is really working the phones. Outside of the Caron Butler talks, there doesn't appear to be anything remotely close. As for Stoudemire, it appears the Cavs will move JJ Hickson and Big Z for Amar'e. The Cs are also exploring smaller deals.

The Celtics are said to be focusing on getting a backup point guard
(there will be more talk with Charlotte about D.J. Augustin). The team
still believes Marquis Daniels can bring the ball up the floor, but is
looking more at the problems at the other end of the court.

Eddie House has struggled with his shot at times, but the Celts
believe that will come around. They know, however, he will never be a
defensive stopper, and it is more than likely that issue will push them
toward a move.

Said one league source, “I think it’s pretty clear they have some
concerns about House. They like what he can do, and I think they like
Tony Allen, too. But from what they’re talking about with teams, it
looks like they’re trying to make an upgrade.”

Herald – Celtics Deal with Plan B

On Page 2, where Danny stands behind KG and Paul's decision to play in the All-Star game.

“Yeah, you can be concerned,” Ainge said of the health factor. “But
here’s the problem. They have to be there whether they want to or not.

“And it’s (our) trainer’s turn to be the team trainer for the East,”
Ainge said of Ed Lacerte. “So what if Paul’s in the shooting contest?
If he wasn’t there at all, he’d be at home in our gym working on his
jumper, anyway. So I’m not overly concerned.

“It might even be good for Paul and Kevin (Garnett) to be touching a
ball this weekend. . . . I liken the All-Star Game to a light workout.”

Herald – Here, Truth Doesn't Hurt

The rest of the links:

Herald: Pierce wins 3 point Contest | Foes won't sell off Celtics | Rondo hot to trot | Globe – Pierce wins 3 point Contest | Rondo a Star with feet on ground | ESPN Boston – Pierce has swagger down | FanHouse – Pierce brings back memories of Bird | Celtics Hub: Top 5 Celtics All-Star Moments |

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