Pierce has finally set the date for his surgery. Glad he is having it done now instead of hoping that it will be ok next season without the surgery. Pierce is a very tough player...He was stabbed and almost killed and was back out shooting a couple weeks later... He also played a game after sitting in the dentist's chair for 8 hours getting his teeth put back in that someone knocked loose the night before. I have no doubt he will be ready for training camp.

The article also quotes Ainge as saying that the next step is surrounding Pierce with players who can help bring a championship to Boston. I think he has done that and I would love to see him stand pat and see what this group can do but this gives me the feeling that he will be making at least one big trade before the season to bring a veteran in. I just hope it's a big and not Iverson.

WALTHAM-It was all smiles and cautious optimism as the Celtics officially announced the signing of Paul Pierce to a three-year, $59 million extension at a press conference today. Pierce grinned through the whole affair, even as he announced plans to have surgery on his left elbow Aug. 1. Team physician Dr. Brian McKeon will clean out the area in minor procedure set to take place in Boston. After approximately two weeks to three weeks of recovery and rehab, Pierce expects to be back on the court and more than ready to go when training camp starts in October. [More] source:Boston Globe Discuss this topic on the Celtics Green Forums!