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On Sunday evening, the Boston Celtics agreed to ship head coach Doc Rivers to the west coast in exchange for a 2015 first round draft pick. The move, which is still awaiting league approval and the finalization of Rivers’ new contract, is basically expected to start a domino effect for the Celtics and an impending off-season of uncertainty.
While the team must decide what to do now with Kevin Garnett, who has the ability to waive his no-trade clause, if necessary, another veteran star is also in a similar situation. Boston needs to make a decision regarding Paul Pierce, who has a buyout option until Jun. 30. If not, they must pick up his option which is over $15 million for next season. Trade rumors are heating up and the Celtics are reportedly looking for a first round selection in exchange for Pierce.
The two teams that have been heavily linked to Pierce thus far are the Milwaukee Bucks and the Cleveland Cavaliers. It was reported earlier in the week that the Cavaliers were willing to send two second picks to Boston in exchange for Pierce, but that was never confirmed and it never truly amounted to anything other than a rumor. Boston is holding out for a first-rounder, simple as that.
In all however, the Celtics have made it clear that they are willing to accommodate Pierce, as it remains obvious that he wants to play for a championship contender. That puts the Bucks and the Cavaliers in a tough spot and according to ESPN‘s Marc Stein, Pierce is “most likely headed to neither one of those teams if he leaves the Celtics this week.”
It’s going to be interesting to see what Boston decides to do prior to, during and after the draft this Thursday. It’s going to be an interesting week to say the least.
Follow Paul Seaver on Twitter: @PaulSeaverRS
