Daniel Shirey-USA Today Sports
With the 2013 NBA Draft nearing, the rumors continue to swirl, especially in relation to the Boston Celtics.
After being linked to the Brooklyn Nets about a potential blockbuster deal that would include both Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett, the Celtics are also pursuing a much smaller deal to acquire a second round selection in tonight’s draft.
Boston currently owns just the 16th overall pick, but they are reportedly targeting a back-up point guard for Rajon Rondo with a few second round projections. Both Phil Pressey and Ray McCallum, among others, may be linked if Boston can acquire a second round selection. The news was reported by both Chad Ford of ESPN and A. Sherrod Blakely of CSNNE.
The teams that are reportedly being linked to the Celtics include the Portland Trail Blazers, Cleveland Cavaliers and Atlanta Hawks. Of course Boston has already been linked to the Cavaliers’ second round selection via a Pierce rumor that virtually had no ground to it, but at this time Cleveland does hold both the 31st and 33rd picks.
The Hawks also boasts two second round selections, holding grip to both the 47th and 50th selection, while the Trail Blazers could be amongst the most active participants in the second round, as they currently hold three picks (39, 40 and 45).
Boston could certainly use some depth at the point guard position and there are options in the second round. Don’t be surprised if the Celtics pursue one of these angles on Thursday night.
Follow Paul Seaver on Twitter: @PaulSeaverRS
