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RETRIEVING CONTENT...PLEASE WAIT
Summer League Roster and Updates
Saturday, July 4, 2009
by FLCeltsFan 10:25 PM
While we wait on Rasheed Wallace's decision, we will have Summer League to take our mind off of the waiting. The Celtics will be participating in the Orlando Summer League that goes from July 6-10 or Monday through Friday of next week. The Celtics will play one game per day as follows:
July 6, 7pm vs. Jazz
July 7, 3pm vs. Magic
July 8, 5pm vs. Thunder
July 9, 7pm vs. Pacers
July 10, 1pm vs. Nets/76ers
I have been checking for coverage of the games but haven't had much luck. NBA.com and NBA TV will be covering the Vegas Summer League but not Orlando. I had written to the Magic about whether they would be allowing spectators and I received this reply:
The Summer League is closed to the public but we offer a live broadcast
for the games on www.orlandomagic.com.
But on their website, they have this posted on their schedule:
Due to space limitations, the event is not open to the public and will be open only to the media and professional team/league personnel. Games will begin at 3 p.m. from July 6-9, and at 11 a.m. on July 10. Box scores, game recaps and cumulative statistics from the event will be made available by visiting www.orlandomagic.com. This doesn't mention streaming the games, but just posting stats, box scores and recaps so I guess we will have to wait to see if they are available anywhere.
The Celtics' roster includes both old and new faces. Here's a look at who we will see playing for the Celtics in the Summer League.
Gabe Pruitt Guard 6'4" 170 lbs
Pruitt spend his first year with the Celtics mostly in the D-League and his second season was spent mostly on the bench. He has yet to convince Doc that he can contribute on a level to warrant being the back up point guard or get regular minutes. The Celtics have until August 1 to decide whether to pick up Pruitt's option for next year. He will be playing for a roster spot in these games and needs to make a statement with his play or he could be looking for a new team.
JR Giddens Guard 6'5" 215 lbs
The Celtics' first round draft pick from last year spend his first season in the D-League and was fairly impressive there, showing athleticism and a well rounded game. He averaged 17.2 points per game, 6.30 rebounds per game, and 3.0 assists per game. He has the potential to be a very good defender and has an all around game but needs to show that he is coachable and has the maturity to play at the NBA level.
Bill Walker Forward 6'6" 220 lbs.
Bill Walker split his time last season between the parent club and the D-League. In his 15 games with the Utah Flash, he averaged 18.9 points. He is an incredible athlete and finishes strong at the rim along with shooting well from mid-range. He has a knack for getting under opponents' skins with his energy and tenaciousness. In my opinion, Walker is ready to contribute on this ball club and could be the back up for Pierce that we need. He should dominate in summer league games.
Lester Hudson Guard 6'3" 190 lbs
Lester Hudson was the Celtics lone draft pick this year and could be a steal at #58. Hudson can score and was second in the nation in scoring last year. He owns the only quadruple double in division 1 history. He is also a pesky defender who pressures the ball and gets a lot of steals. Hudson is fighting for a spot on the team. Look for a particularly strong competition between Hudson and Pruitt as one will probably make the team and the other one will more than likely be cut.
Nick Fazekas Forward 7'0" 235 lbs
Fazekas is a great shooter and he has a high basketball IQ but isn't particularly athletic. Fazekas was in the Nuggets training camp last season, but was cut before the season. He then spent the year with Oostende in Belgium and ASVEL in France. He has NBA potential but just hasn't put it all together yet. He is a solid 7 footer, but Mikki Moore and Olowokandi have both proven that height isn't everything.
Coby Karl Guard 6'5" 215 lbs
Coby Karl is the son of Denver coach George Karl. For the last couple of years, Karl has spent time with the Lakers, the D-League, and playing overseas. He began last season in the D-League and averaged almost 19 points and 6 assists playing for the Idaho Stampede. He left mid-season though to sign with DKV Joventut Badalona. where he averaged less than 5 points per game in limited minutes. He is a long shot to make the team.
Chris Lofton Guard 6'2" 200 lbs
Lofton is a prolific scorer, but is not quick enough to defend guards on the NBA level. Lofton played in Turkey last season where he averaged 20.2 points, 2.6 rebounds and 2 assists per game He shot 46.1% from three point range and broke the Turkish league single game scoring record with 61 points including 17 three pointers in that game. He is a tough kid and played his senior season while recovering from cancer.
Bryan Mullins Guard 6'3" 190 lbs
Mullins is one of those rare student athletes who was actually better as a student than he was as an athlete. He averaged 9.3 points, 5.6 assists and 2.0 steals last year for Southern Illinois while carrying a 4.0 average in finance. Maybe if the basketball thing doesn't work out, he could be a good agent. Mullins is a solid defender and a decent player and while he may catch on with an NBA team, I doubt it will be this one.
Kevin Rogers Forward 6'9" 250 lbs
Rogers is an undersized power forward who is good in several areas like shooting, inside play, defense, etc, but he doesn't excel in any of them. He is quick and will use his bulk to help on defense, but I don't see him making it on the NBA level. He may able to be an enforcer in Summer League, but I don't see the skills to make it on the next level unless he has improved a lot since leaving Baylor.
Bryce Taylor Guard 6'5" 210 lbs
Taylor can score the ball and is a very skilled offensive player. He was on the Timberwolves summer league team last year but didn't catch on with an NBA team and spent last season playing in Italy where he averaged 13.0 points, 2.4 rebounds .5 assists and 1.6 steals a game. He should do well in Summer league, but I don't see him making a big enough impression to make the team ahead of Hudson, Pruitt, or Giddens.
Mike Sweetney Forward 6'9" 270 lbs
Sweetney is a very intriguing player and will be worth watching. Sweetney was the 9th pick in the 2003 Draft. He played a couple of seasons with the Knicks and then played a couple more seasons with the Bulls. Sweetney is a very good low-post scorer with soft hands and a good inside moves. He battled weight issues during his first few years in the league before disappearing off the NBA radar. If he has solved his weight problems and is in good shape, he may have an outside chance to make the team, especially if Big Baby chooses to go elsewhere.
Robert Swift Center 7'1" 270 lbs
Danny has been said to be enamored of Swift since he came out for the draft directly from Bakersfield High School. Danny was rumored to be very high on the kid and was all set to take him in the draft when Seattle stole him with the pick right before the Celtics' pick. Danny then took Al Jefferson, which didn't work out all that bad for the Celtics. Now, he is a free agent and Danny finally gets his chance. However, Swift has spent much of his career so far dealing with injuries. His most recent injury was a tear in his right meniscus in 2008. He also had an ACL tear in the same knee. Last season he played for the Thunder on a qualifying offer but played in just 21 games, averaging 3.3 points and 3.4 rebounds and struggled to come back from the injury. When healthy, Swift can be a physical presence around the basket and a very good rebounder. If he has recovered from his injuries, he may be the biggest surprise in Orlando and Danny may finally have his man. But, he is injury prone and unlike Leon, hasn't yet proved that he can come back from injuries to play at a high level.
Darius Washington Guard 6'2" 195
Washington played with the Bulls in training camp last season. He played in Russia and averaged Washington averaged 13.1 points per game in the Russian league. He is not a great shooter but can run a team and has shown flashes of NBA level talent. If he has improved his offensive skills he has a chance to catch on somewhere in the league but I very much doubt that it will be with the Celtics as he would have to beat out Hudson and Pruitt to stick with the team and I don't see it happening.
Summer League is almost here. Stay tuned for more info as it becomes available.
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Fiddlin' and Diddlin' - Daily Links 7/4
Fiddlin' and Diddlin' - Daily Links 7/3
Friday, July 3, 2009
Things are Heating Up
Thursday, July 2, 2009
by FLCeltsFan 10:54 PM
Things are heating up in the free agent market and dominoes are beginning to fall. There have been several big free agent signings so far. The Celtics are putting all their eggs in the Rasheed Wallace basket right now and Sheed has said he would take his time deciding so all the Celtics can do is wait.
Danny offered Sheed a 2 year contract for the MLE and I have read in a couple places that Sheed is looking for 3 years at least. He is 35 and he has slowed down somewhat in recent years and he may see this as his last big contract. I just get visions of James Posey all over again. The Spurs and Cavs are both after him and the fact that he is taking his time deciding tells me he is looking for the team that will give him the most security. All they have to do is give him that extra year and no matter how much he likes the idea of playing with KG, he is going to go for the money and security. Also, the Spurs will offer Sheed a starting role whereas with the Celtics, he will come off the bench, which may sway him toward the Spurs. But, at his age, coming off the bench may be a welcome change, who knows.
Loscy has an open letter to Danny on his decision not to sign Leon Powe. In all my 40+ years of following the Celtics, I don't think there has ever been a decision by a Celtics GM that has disappointed me more. The Contra Costa Times has an article with some quotes from Leon that just really make you hurt for the guy. The whole time he has been rehabbing, he expected to return to the Celtics. Doc told him he wanted him back and then Danny dropped the bombshell on him.
"First he said it was money issues ... then he said I'm going to take up a roster spot and that he's not and the owner's not willing to wait," Powe said. "He said they've got a two-year window to win the championship and they wanted someone who could play right away."
"They gave me a lot of reasons why. It's not like I'm asking for $30 million a year. That would be hard," Powe said. "Just give me something for one year, just to show y'all that I'm going to work hard and when I come back I'm going to be right."
"I thought, 'I've been with the team, they know me, they know I'm a hard worker. I've done everything I've been asked. I was playing hurt when I did it,'"‰" he said, referring to the anterior cruciate ligament injury.
"They told me I need to go find another team. I didn't think they'd do anything like that."
"You always want to be somewhere you're appreciated. At that time I didn't feel appreciated," he said.
"I got a lot of motivation right now," he said. "I love the work, it's just a challenge for me. I've been down this road. It's nothing new.
"I ain't got no doubts. I know as soon as I get back on the court I'm going to be ready to play and play good."
I just love this kid. He has battled back from ACL injuries in both high school and college and played at a very high level. Leon played for 3 minutes after tearing his ACL because his team needed him. You just don't find guys with that much heart every day. Miami, Orlando, Oklahoma City and Memphis know what kind of player Leon is and have all contacted Leon's agent about possibly signing him. I have no doubt that Leon is going to come back and play at a high level again this time. As for Danny's excuse that he needs the roster space, he carried Sam Cassell most of last year and he never suited up, not even once. He also carried Patrick O'Bryant who didn't contribute and was an obvious bust from the beginning. Tony Allen has been injured for much of his career so far and Danny has carried him even though he has regressed instead of getting better. All I know is that Karma is not a nice thing to mess with and by turning his back on Leon, Danny messed with Karma big time. Leon would have worked his heart out to rehab his knee and right after the all star break would have been back and ready to play at a high level and would give the team a boost going into the playoffs. That's more than I can say for Sam Cassell, Patrick O'Bryant, Mikki Moore, or Tony Allen, all of whom have occupied Danny's precious roster spots. If another team signs him, it will be a huge loss for the Celtics in more ways than one.
What is it with all these teams signing free agents so quickly. Detroit had Gordon and Villanueva on the first day. Artest agreed with the Lakers after just a couple of contacts. Ariza agreed with Houston like almost immediately. Yet here the Celtics sit hoping Sheed will pick them. Could it be that other teams are willing to go that extra year and pig headed Danny is not and therefore we are stuck with the Patrick O'Bryants who are willing to sign for 1 year at the veteran's minimum?
Speaking of the other signings. The Cavs big score so far is Shaquille O'Neal. They were all so ecstatic when he was announced today. But Suns fans would like to warn them not go be too giddy about it in an open letter on Deep Purple.
Today he told reporters “I’m not here to demand 40 or 50 shots. Thirty (laughing). I’m just coming in to do my part.” Funny because during his introduction in Phoenix he said almost the identical thing, “I’m not a ball freak I’m not going to be asking for 30 or 40 touches. I just want to fit in”. We all saw how that worked out for the Suns. By the 2008-2009 season Shaq was demanding more touches than a frat boy at a strip club and instead of advancing the Suns fans’ dream of a title, he and his personality helped to dash them.
Don’t get us wrong Cleveland, stay optimistic as long as you can. Try not to lose faith until it becomes abundantly clear that you have to. Just remember, when Shaq came to the desert, the Suns were a first place team in the west, they were a title contender for four years running and they just couldn’t get over the proverbial hump to win it all (sound familiar?). One hundred and three games, thousands of tweets and one playoff win later the Suns are no longer a contender and are on the verge of losing one or two of their stars, Amare Stoudemire and Steve Nash, (if you’re not careful it will sound familiar sooner than you think). Buyer beware, because once you buy into the hype that is Shaq the process begins and, at least in Phoenix, it ends with the fans still urning for a ring and with the feeling of a “Big Disappointment”.
As for Artest to the Lakers. during the playoffs, as I was doing the comments from the other side, I would peruse the Rockets' boards and they weren't very happy with Ron Ron and his need to be in the spotlight. Here are a few comments from Rockets' fans after learning that Ron Ron was going elsewhere. Here is mini comments from the other side edition on Ron Artest to the Lakers:
Looks like I can go back to hating Ron Artest on the court. I disliked him on the court for the Rockets
Good Riddance! this guy was a locker room cancer
I won't lie, I'm happy he's not a Rocket....not so happy he's a Laker though, unless he implodes that team like he has every other team he has been on.
I couldn't agree more. I think he has a good chance of imploding that team. His horrible shot selection isn't going to sit well with Kobe
I'm glad he's gone. He sucked on the court.
no idea what actually took place, but the Lakers are absolute idiots if they chose to give Ron Artest the MLE in lieu of Trevor Ariza. I'm guessing though that Ron was plan B after Trevor gave word that he wouldn't be back. I can't see them being that stupid.
Good, someone to keep the ball out of Kobe's hands.
he will implode that team. ariza was a better fit for them b/c he only shoots when he's wide open and NEVER creates his own shot (even if he can b/c he has that ability sometimes). ron dribbling and going nowhere will piss kobe off.
Nice, Artest the chemistry killer will destroy the Lakers.
Agreed. There is no way in hell that Kobe is going to put up with that crap when not even Rafer Alston could. Ron doesn't even bring defense anymore.
This is an atrocious signing by the Lakers, especially coupled with the fact that they're losing Ariza, a guy who fit like a glove on that team.
I don't think they repeat next year, just based on this.
I can honestly see Ron, Kobe, and Odom fighting in the locker room. Something will happen in that locker room before the season ends.
there is nothing special about artest. his selfish play was detremintal to the Rockets. So long Artest. I really don't care where he ends up. as long as it isn't here.
I think this great news. I had hopes for Artest when he came over but was really disappointed in his play.
Agreed, his toughness/attitude was better than his actual play on the court, I can't wait to see him implode that team.
Ron is gone so what. He didn't do anything here anyway. He wasn't the Ron Artest that we saw. Good ridance. We were suppose to have 2 shut down defenders. I found it funny how we still only had 1. Every guy Ron guarded just went right by him. Hmmmm some great defender. He use 2 be good but the past 2 1/2 years his defense has slipped.
Artest can't guard anybody anymore that has a quick first step. Lakers should have gone with Ariza imo.
i imagine Kobe fighting to get the ball from his teammate Ron
Artest is not the caliber player he thinks he is. And his Robert Horry imitation grew old fast.
honestly this is probably the best case scenario. artest has the best potential to internally destroy the lakers.
Part of the reason both the Cavs and Lakers were so good last year was their chemistry. Both teams are making moves that could seriously affect that chemistry. It is going to be an interesting season with all these big names changing teams. One thing that I saw on the Houston boards was the feeling that if they signed Ariza Shane Battier was likely on his way out and they would be looking to trade him. Maybe they would like Scal or Tony or some good young talent like Giddens or Pruitt. I'd love to get Shane Battier. He would be the defensive 3 that we need. He played Kobe as well as anyone in the playoffs.
There are several teams who are very interested in Big Baby. Among them are Detroit, Memphis, New York and San Antonio. Detroit especially is serious about making him an offer and they still have money to spend. Not to beat a dead horse, but if Big Baby signs elsewhere, Danny may be sorry he was so quick to write Leon off.
Finally, today was my birthday. A year ago I got a ton of Celtics championship gear for birthday presents. Next year I will be putting in my wish list for 18th championship gear again but this year this is what I got.
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Fiddlin' and Diddlin' - Daily Links 7/2
by FLCeltsFan 10:39 AM
Herald Thunder’s B.J. Mullens overcomes tough times
Glen Davis monitors offers
Pistons take fast action
Sweetney joins Celts for summer league
Leon Powe, Celtics say goodbyes
Celtics to court Rasheed Wallace
Globe Globe 10.0 - Sports video with Bob Ryan
Ainge on NBA offseason
Powe headed to open market
Celtics have target
Hudson on upcoming Celtics season
CelticsBlog Taking Stock of a Wild July 1
Get To Know Your Summer League Roster
Wojo Was Wrong - No Midnight Sheed Run
Phone Calls And The Waiting Game
LOY's Place Sign the Re-Sign Leon Powe-tition
Danny Finally Gets His Man (Sort Of)
MetroWest Daily Celtics Notebook
Megliola: C's pick Hudson living a dream
Celtics.com Hudson Meets Press as Summer Roster Takes Shape
New England Sports 24/7 A Steady Pursuit of Rasheed Wallace
Report: No Personal Visits from Management or Players
Red's Army Oh yeah... Lester Hudson was in town today
Welcome to Massachusetts, Sheed
Courtside View Waiting game could be in store for Baby
Green Street Powe sponsoring basketball camp
Celtics Announce Summer League Roster
Celtics Hub Contemplating ‘Sheed
Farewell, Leon
NESN Pistons begin rebuilding process by landing Gordon, Villanueva
Despite Shaq, VC trades, East still up for grabs
Ainge pulling plug on the Powe show?
Questionable move to let Powe go
Examiner Will Stephon Marbury return to the Cs?
Bleacher Report Bibby, Battier, Bass to Cavs? LeBron to PF? Championship in Cleveland
Where Do The Cavs Go After Day One?
Boston Celtics Get Steal of the Draft at No. 58: Lester Hudson
Free Agency Players: Cavaliers, Celtics, Magic...Pistons?
Fool Me Once, Shame On You, Danny Ainge. Fool Me Twice, Shame On Me
CSNE Exclusive: Ainge 1 on 1
Yahoo.com Celtics continue to recruit Wallace
Suicide lines: Rockets pursue Gortat; Knicks want Lee cheap
Pistons strike deal with Gordon
Florida Today Gortat drawing interest
Connecticut News Kevin Ollie Available Kevin Ollie Available
Celtics Get Busy in Free Agency - First Targets Known
Delaware Online Egerson flattered by Celtics, but may sign overseas
Basketball Geek Measuring 3pt Shooting Ability With a Multilevel ModelMeasuring 3pt Shooting Ability With a Multilevel Model
RGJ Former Pack star gets tryout with Boston
Dime Detroit makes first free agent splash, and Z-Bo finds a home
The Knicks Might As Well Spit In David Lee’s FaceThe Knicks Might As Well Spit In David Lee’s Face
World’s Biggest Goth Kid joining the Celtics
Inquisitr Trevor Ariza out, Ron Artest in for LA Lakers?
48 Minutes of Hell Sheed’s Attitude
Hoopsking Paul Pierce Academy Recap
Mass Live Report: Rasheed Wallace will meet with Boston Celtics on Thursday
Chicago Tribune Former Chicago Bulls guard Ben Gordon on verge of signing with the Pistons
Hoop Doctors What’s Next For Stephon Marbury?
Press Box Rent-A-Shaq Experiment Comes To Cleveland
News OK Gortat & Powe intriguing free agents for Thunder
Bennington Banner SHORT but SWEET: Celtics' draftee Hudson makes climb to NBA
Dueling Couches The End Of The Hard Work Era?
Sports of Boston The Celtics Have Market Options
KOLO TV Fazekas Set To Join Celtics Summer League Team In Orlando
Texas Sports T.J. Ford hosts Celebrity Bowl-a-Thon in Houston on July 11
Stet sports Wizards Should Be a Go For Leon Powe
NY Post STEPHON MARBURY SAYS STARS SHOULDNT SIGN WITH NEW YORK KNICKS
Slam Online Entertainers Basketball Classic
FanHouse Leon Powe Will Prove the Celtics Wrong
Hoopsworld Dented Cans In NBA Free-Agency
Real Hoops Fan Rudy Fernandez is mad that Blazers are pursuing Hedo
ProJo Ainge hopeful Celts can re-sign Glen Davis
Mass live Boston Celtics announce Orlando Summer League roster
ESPN Ainge: Boston Celtics' Big 3 can stay beyond contracts
NBA Ruondtable Leon Powe Done In Boston?
Daily Thunder OKC talks with Millsap, Gortat; Danny Ainge finally gets his man
CSNE Ainge Confirms Interest in Wallace; No Timetable for Visit
AP General Manager Danny Ainge says Big 3 may play beyond current contracts
MLive Pistons' coaching search includes Bill Laimbeer
My San Antonio Spurs get in line to woo Wallace
With Malice SA or LA - who really IS the team of the decade?
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Sign the Re-Sign Leon Powe-tition
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
by FLCeltsFan 11:46 PM
Jeff on CelticsBlog posted this petition and I think it is a good idea. If you would like the Celtics to bring back Leon Powe, please sign this petition to be sent to the Celtics organization.
Go here to add your name to Celtics Fans who want Leon back.
This guy gave all he had to the Celtics and now Danny is just casting him aside. He said he can't use a valuable roster spot for him. He didn't seem to be concerned about using a roster spot for Sam Cassell, who never played a minute for the team. And we used a roster spot for Patrick O'Bryant, who might as well have been injured for all he contributed. And then there is Tony Allen, who has been kept on the roster even though he has been injured much of his career and didn't add much when he wasn't. Leon deserves better than what he is getting from the Celtics. Add your name to the petition to let Danny know how Celtics fans feel about it.
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Danny Finally Gets His Man (Sort Of)
by FLCeltsFan 3:46 PM
From the Herald:
The Celtics also added free agent center Robert Swift to the roster. The former Oklahoma City/Seattle seven-footer, who joined the league straight out of high school, has always intrigued Ainge.
Anyone who has followed the Celtics for any time at all know that there have been rumors every year about how Danny coveted Robert Swift. Back when Danny drafted Al Jefferson, word was that he really had wanted Robert Swift, who the Seattle Supersonics took with the pick before Danny got to pick. There were even rumors that Danny was trying to trade Jefferson along with others to Seattle to get Swift, even after the draft. Just about every year, Danny's name has come up in trade rumors to get Swift.
Now, Swift is an unrestricted free agent and Danny has tagged him to play on the Celtics' Summer League team. We finally get to see Robert Swift in Celtics green. I have a feeling that with his red hair, he will be a favorite of Tommy's too.
Other players tagged for the Celtics Summer League Team include rookie guard Lester Hudson, guard Chris Lofton (University of Tennesee, Turkish league), Coby Karl (son of Nuggets coach George Karl), Darius Washington (University of Memphis, Spurs, Czech Republic league), Bryce Taylor (Oregon, Italy), Kevin Rogers (undrafted out of Baylor), Bryan Mullins (undrafted out of Southern Illinois) and four-year NBA veteran Michael Sweetney.
The same article in the Herald has this little tidbit about Bryan Mullins
Mullins, who came in early last week for a pre-draft workout, startled the coaching staff when he broke the Celtics record for the three-minute run - a staple for everyone during training camp.
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Celtics News on Hudson, Summer League and Sheed
by FLCeltsFan 11:04 AM
Gary Tanguay is all over this Rasheed Wallace thing. He must be trying hard to make his bold prediction that Sheed would come to Boston true.
First, is this Tweet:
Just spoke with Danny Ainge. He told they have interest in Rasheed Wallace. He confirmed our report from 48 hours ago.
Then this one following close behind
Danny is not sure of visit timeline though.
Also popping up on Twitter is some news about Lester Hudson. I didn't see the press conference televised, but he was scheduled to be introduced to the media at 10:00 this morning. I am sure everyone is sitting on the edge of their chairs wondering what number he was going to pick. Wonder no more.
Lester Hudson is set to meet with the media here in Waltham shortly. His #26 jersey is waiting with PR guy Brian Olive...
Finally, there is news on the Celtics' Summer League Roster. Since the Orlando Summer League is next week from July 6-10, I'm sure Celtics fans are wondering who will be on the Celtics' team. This information came in 2 different Tweets, here and here.
Summer League roster includes: Chris Lofton, Coby Karl, Darius Washington, Bryce Taylor, Kevin Rogers, Bryan Mullins, Michael Sweetney , JR Giddens, Bill Walker and Gabe Pruitt.
What did we ever do without Twitter?
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Fiddlin' and Diddlin' - Daily Links 7/1
by FLCeltsFan 10:11 AM
Herald Uncertain future for Allen Iverson
For better or worse, Joe Dumars moves boldly
No moves by Kobe Bryant as free agency deadline arrives
Amare Stoudemire reportedly not interested in Warriors
J.R. Smith to serve 30 days following fatal accident
Hedo Turkoglu’s time with the Magic has been just grand
Danny Ainge’s shopping list
Michael Curry axed after 1 year
Eddie House stays at home
Globe House finds a home in Boston
One and done: Curry gets axed
Land of the free (agents)
No shifting of this House as guard opts to stay with Celtics
MetroWest Daily Celtics: House staying home in Boston; Powe left unrestricted
CelticsBlog Steve Weinman (The Intern) Hangs With Thabeet
Which Danny Ainge will we see?
Sheed Rumors Gaining Momentum
LOY's Place Random Thoughts as Free Agency Begins
Red's Army Need for Sheed?
Courtside View The right choice for House in this market
No qualifying offer for Powe
Celtics Hub Eddie House staying with Celtics
And the Madness Has Begun: Hello ‘Sheed, Goodbye Leon?
NESN A perfect marriage: Marion belongs in Toronto
Marbury: ‘I want to play in Boston’
Rasheed to Boston? Don’t count on it
Loscy The case for the starting 5… Ma ma se, ma ma sa, ma ma coo sa.
Celtics Town Rasheed Wallace and Kevin Garnett - A Potentially Frightening Combination
FanHouse Leon Powe Will Prove the Celtics Wrong
Hoopsworld Free Agency: The Big Fish
McDyess/Iverson/Marbury - Next Stop?
Orlando Sentinel NBA shopping list: Will Magic go for brand names or bargains?
New England Sports 24/7 Celtics Updates: Free Agents, Signings, and Rumors
Davis Receives Qualifying Offer; Powe Does Not
My Free Agent Wish List
WEEI Pierce Knew Rondo Wasn't Going Anywhere
Sporting News Marbury says Knicks can't win championships
ProJo Current, future PC players get the chance of a lifetime"
Eddie House will remain with the Celtics
Pierce thinks Celts need depth
CBS Sports NBA Free Agency Begins
News OK Oklahoma City Thunder linked to some big free agents
Gortat & Powe intriguing free agents for Thunder
Bleacher Report NBA Surprise Players: Top Underdogs For Each Team in 2009-10
NBA Free Agent Rumors: Hedo to Detroit, Ariza in Portland?
'Twas The Night Before Free Agency in Boston
A Kidd in New York? Jason Kidd Heading to The New York Knicks
Charlie Villanueva: The Final Piece of the Cavaliers' Puzzle?
ESPN Leon Powe is Unemployed
Dime NBA Free Agency tips off, and is Houston replacing Yao with Bosh?
CT News NBA Free Agency Begins Today
CSNE Seven Easy Steps to Banner 18… a Billy Mays homage
Leon Powe Fan Site Celtics Say No On Powe
PBN Lee, Ariza have most upside among 2009 free agent prizes
Enterprise House turns down free agency, remains with Celtics
SI.com Lakers, Heat lead rankings of NBA free-agent destinations
Pistons, Jason Kidd among those who will shape NBA free agency
Lakers, Heat lead rankings of NBA free-agent destinations
Bet Us NBA Free-Agent Breakdown
Sports of Boston Celtics Offseason Watch: Big Baby, House, Yao and more
Examiner What to make of the Rondo mess
Times Union Siena’s Ubiles attends Paul Pierce camp
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Random Thoughts as Free Agency Begins
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
by FLCeltsFan 10:24 PM
Gary Tanguay was just on the phone on Sports Tonight and said that sometime soon, Rasheed Wallace and his family will be in Boston to check out the area and talk to the Celtics. Rasheed was just in Dallas, but Tanguay didn't know if it was to meet with the Mavericks or just to visit Dallas. But he was certain that Sheed would be meeting with the Celtics and that they would be checking out the Boston area with an eye toward Sheed possibly signing there. Still nothing certain, but it is obvious that Sheed is indeed considering Boston to sign with.
Eddie House finally made his decision to stay in Boston for the $2.86 million remaining on the second year of his contract. I think he made a wise decision. I am sure he checked out the free agency climate and realized that teams are not looking to spend a lot of money this off season and even if a team was interested, he probably wouldn't get more than his current contract.
Marc Spears mentioned Lamar Odom as being at the top of his wish list. I just don't see that happening. Odom loves LA and hates Boston. I don't see Odom wanting to come to Boston and if he did, it wouldn't be for what Boston can afford to give him. But, I am sure Danny will give him a call because it can't hurt to give it a try.
The Celtics have made a qualifying offer to Glen Davis, but Scott Souza is reporting that Danny didn't make an offer to Leon Powe, making him an unrestricted free agent. I really hope Danny does right by him and brings him back. I am certain that Leon will come back from this injury just as he did from the others. He will be back at full strength just in time for the playoffs when the Celtics need him most. Any guy who plays 3 minutes after tearing his ACL deserves another chance. This guy is all heart and I want him back.
The Globe confirmed that Danny is interested in re-signing Marbury. Whether that interest turns into an offer will depend on what the Celtics have to spend and what Marbury will accept. Danny once again said that the Celtics plan to use their MLE for the right player and that player will more than likely be a center or power forward.
ProJo caught up with Paul Pierce at Brandeis University for his annual Skills Academy He feels that all the Celtics need is to get healthy and to add some depth. He also addressed the Rondo rumors.
"Rondo's not going anywhere," he said with a smile. "That's the fun part about the summer. Rondo's going to be a good player in this league."
Pierce went on to add that Rondo's personality can be taken the wrong way.
"Rondo's biggest weakness is his greatest strength. He's a competitor. He helps you win games," he said.
There will be a press conference at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 1 to intoduce Lester Hudson, the Celtics lone draft pick this year.
Now the fun starts with the first day of free agency and the rumors should be flying hot and heavy. Danny will be busy and hopefully will do better this off season than Patrick O'Bryant. Tanguay still feels certain that Sheed will be a Celtic based on his relationship with KG. That would fill a big need and Marbury would fill another. And if they could find a back up for Pierce like Parker, Barnes, or Marion, we'd be all set. Artest owes Pierce one after pulling his shorts down in one game. Maybe Pierce can collect. It's going to be an interesting couple of weeks. Teams can talk with free agents starting on Wednesday July 1, but they can't sign until July 8.
Summer League next week could answer some questions when we see Gabe Pruitt, Lester Hudson, Bill Walker and JR Giddens in action. There will be others invited, but I don't see Danny making any of those guys an offer unless they are spectacular.
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Fiddlin' and Diddlin' - Daily Links 6/30
Random Thoughts and Rumors on Free Agent Eve
Monday, June 29, 2009
by FLCeltsFan 10:35 PM
There was a firestorm of activity surrounding Gary Tanguay's statement on Sports Tonight on Monday. On the early show he stated that Rasheed Wallace to Boston was as good as done. Then on the late edition, he stated that it was his feeling that Sheed would sign with Boston because KG wants him there and Boston wants him and Sheed wants to come to Boston.
That isn't what we heard from Ric Bucher last week. Bucher posted on Twitter that Sheed didn't want Boston in spite of KG calling. Now, Tanguay says that Sheed wants to come to Boston. He sounded pretty certain that it would happen and that makes me think he has heard some things that would lead him to come out on the air and say that Sheed was coming to Boston.
I think I would rather Antonio McDyess for several reasons. One is character. I think that McDyess would fit on this team better. Another is motivation. Rasheed isn't always motivated and he already has a ring. I think McDyess would be more motivated because, like PJ Brown, he has been chasing a ring and this would be his chance to get one. Sheed is a talent, and I wouldn't want him to go to Orlando or Cleveland, but I think I would rather have McDyess on the Celtics. Free agency starts tomorrow so I guess we will soon find out.
We are a ways from getting the schedules for next season released but KRGV is reporting that the Rockets will play a pre-season game at Dodge Arena against the Celtics.
Speaking of the Rockets, it was reported yesterday that Yao Ming is expected to miss all of the 2009-2010 season. In the playoffs, he re-fractured the navicular bone in his foot. Three pins were inserted when he injured it a year ago, but the foot cracked in the playoffs and it isn’t healing. I am really sorry to hear this because Yao is one of the good guys. I really felt bad for him in the playoffs because he wanted to play so badly, broken foot or no broken foot. I keep thinking back to Bill Walton and as good as his NBA career was, it was only a fraction of what it could have been if he didn't have the foot and ankle problems throughout his career. Yao could be one of the all time greats but his career is being sidetracked by injuries, just as Walton's was. I am hoping that Yao's injury heals and isn't as bad as they fear it is.
Charlie Villanueva is officially an unrestricted free agent as the Bucks didn't give him a qualifying offer. He would be a nice fit with the Celtics, but word is that the Cavs are going to go after him and he wants to play with the Cavs so it probably will get done. Villanueva along with Shaq improves the Cavs. Now we have to sit back and wait to see what Danny does to improve the Celtics.
Another restricted free agent whose team won't be giving him a qualifying offer is Marquis Daniels. Daniels can play all three perimeter positions and fills the need that the Celtics have for a back up wing. He is a good defender and he averaged 13.6 points and 4.6 rebounds last season. Danny has said that he probably wouldn't use the MLE for a wing player but is looking to use it on a big but possibly he could get Daniels for the LLE or the vet minimum. A lot of free agents are going to have to settle for less than they think they are worth because of the economy and so many teams trying to cut costs.
The Celtics will give Big Baby a qualifying offer today and keep him a restricted free agent. The Celtics would have 7 days to match any offer that he received from other teams. Only 4 teams have cap space to sign free agents and others have been cutting costs, there won't be a lot of teams even willing to spend the MLE on free agents. The economy is weak and along with that, teams are looking for expiring contracts to give them cap space next season in the 2010 lottery free agent season. There may be a team who would be willing to give Big Baby a mid level contract for 3 or 4 years. But Boston is looking to bring him back as a bench player and they can't afford to shell out big dollars to keep him. Hopefully he won't get the attention he is hoping for and will be back in green for a reasonable contract next season. If he doesn't get a big offer, he would probably be best to accept the 1 year qualifying offer and then try for free agency next season because after the big names are signed, there will be teams with cap space looking to spend it.
Eddie House still hasn't decided whether or not to opt out of his contract. He would be smart to pick up his option and play well again this season and as with Big Baby, next season there will be teams with cap space who miss out on the big free agents that will be willing to spend on the second tier of players. We will know sometime today whether Eddie will return or test the free agent market. If he opts out of his $2.86 million option for next year with the Celtics and then can't find a taker because of the economy, then he takes the risk of having to sign for the vet minimum. I think Danny drafted Lester Hudson just in case Eddie opts out. My guess is that Hudson's future with the team is tied in with Eddie's decision to stay or go.
Stephon Marbury has come out and said the he wants to come back to Boston. Here is his quote from the Globe
‘‘I’m not trying to get a bunch of money,’’ Marbury said. ‘‘I know Boston doesn’t have a bunch of money. I’m not seeking out teams with more money. I want to play for a championship-contending team. I can’t play for a young team that’s not in a position to compete for a championship."
I wouldn't mind having Marbury come back as the back up PG. If he is willing to come for what the Celtics can afford and is still willing to come off the bench, he would be the best option available for a back up point. He came in cold last season after not playing for a year and not knowing the system and we saw flashes of the old Starbury. Coming in from the beginning and knowing the system, he would be a valuable asset off the bench. He isn't looking at any other teams until he knows whether or not the Celtics will sign him and he has chosen to be represented by the Players' Association rather than hiring an agent.
“I’m excited about being able to play next year, putting everything behind me and doing everything with a clean slate with a brand new beginning,’’ Marbury said.
“I’m just waiting for the day they can sign me. If they can’t, then I’ll start looking at other teams. But I’m not talking to any other teams.’’
I haven't seen anywhere whether Danny will offer Leon Powe a qualifying offer. I really hope he either offers him a qualifying offer or a vet minimum contract. I want Leon back. I fully believe that he will return from this injury just as he did the others. You can't put a price on this guy's heart. Any player who stays in the game and plays for 3 minutes with a torn ACL deserves a contract. He is what Celtic Pride is all about and should be a Celtic next season.
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Celtics' New D-League Affiliate Announced
by FLCeltsFan 2:33 PM
The Maine Red Claws have announced that they will be affiliated with the Boston Celtics and the Charlotte Bobcats this season. This will make it much easier for the Celtics to send players back and forth. Since they will be so close players who are assigned to the D-League can still be involved with the parent club for some things and not have to travel across the country to do so.
The Celtics have used the D-League in the past for their first year players and this year, possible D-League candidates may be JR Giddens, Bill Walker, or Lester Hudson, depending on how quickly these players are developing and if they can earn minutes on the parent club.
The GM and president of the Red Claws is former Celtics assistant coach, Jon Jennings and so there are deep connections between the Celtics and their new affiliate that go way back. Danny Ainge and Jennings have a very good working relationship which also will help with the communication between the two clubs.
Here is a link to an interview on CMSB with Danny Ainge and Jon Jennings about the Red Claws along with some comments about the Celtics. Also, here is a link to the official website of the Maine Red Claws.
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Fiddlin' and Diddlin' - Daily Links 6/29
The Rumor Mill on 6/28
Sunday, June 28, 2009
by FLCeltsFan 2:00 PM
Just read an interesting rumor on CelticsBlog. The rumor comes from the website Pick and Roll. I used a translation site to get a general idea of what it says and here is a rough translation of part of the article.
Next Wednesday will begin to have definitions in the market of free agents in the league (Oberto is in this condition) and the Athens Olympic champion in 2004, according to trusted sources close to Celtics could stop at a franchise, the most successful the history of the NBA, according to their curriculum.
So, according to a source close to the Celtics, Oberto may come to the Celtics. Oberto was just recently traded from the Spurs to the Bucks and then to the Pistons. HoopsHype shows that he has 2 years left at $3.5 million. Danny would either have to have a trade in the works or Detroit would need to buy him out for Danny to sign him as a free agent. If they don't buy him out, I wonder if they would like Scal's expiring contract. Oberto would make a good back up for Perk. I hope there is some truth in this one although this reminds me of all the articles in the overseas papers saying that Sarunas Jasikevicius was signing with the Celtics also.
The Dallas Morning News is reporting that the Celtics are expected to have some interest in Jason Kidd.
Wednesday is when teams officially can begin talking to free agents, and Kidd is expected to get overtures from several teams: Cleveland, Portland, Boston, New York and perhaps the Lakers.
The Mavs have said that they are going to make signing Kidd a priority and they can offer him any amount up to the max. Would he be interested in signing with the Celtics as a back up for the league minimum or LLE? Can we combine this with rumors that there is a deal in the works to send Rondo to the Kings for Evans and either Jason Thompson or Spencer Hawes?
The Globe is reporting that Big Baby is working out in Houston and has dropped from 320 pounds where he was at the end of last season to 300 and his goal is to get down to 270. Danny will make a qualifying offer to insure that Big Baby is a restricted free agent, giving the Celtics the opportunity to match any offer he gets. The Celtics want to keep him but it will depend on what kind of offer he gets from other teams. One NBA general manager said Davis could maybe garner a contract paying $3 million-$4 million in the first year, while another said he’d get close to the mid-level exception (at least $5.6 million). Teams eyeing Davis also know that Boston is keenly interested, too, with matching power. But the Celtics are also over the projected luxury-tax threshold by nearly $2 million. Big Baby will participate in the USA mini-camp next month. He says he wants to come back to Boston and Danny wants him back, but just as in Posey's case, Danny won't over-pay for him.
Antonio McDyess is looking for a shot at a ring. He would fit very well with the Celtics and he may just look at the Celtics as his best shot at getting that coveted ring. He had signed with Detroit following his buyout hoping for a shot at winning a title with them but with their rebuilding in process he will more than likely look elsewhere for a contender to sign with. He would be another player that would help the Celtics even though he is 35 years old, he still plays at a high level.
The Magic aren't sitting around and resting on their laurels. They are very busy trying to bring in quality players to upgrade a team that made it to the Finals last season. They have already signed Vince Carter and are courting both Brandon Bass and are considered a front runner to land Rasheed Wallace. Hopefully Danny has a few tricks up his sleeve to improve the Celtics or they are going to be left in the dust as other teams in the East improve this off season.
Summer League begins in Orlando on July 6. I am sure we will see Bill Walker, JR Giddens, Gabe Pruitt, Lester Hudson, and Chris Lofton on the team. Mikki Moore said at the end of last season that he would be willing to play on the summer league team, hoping that Danny would give him another chance, but I haven't seen any more about that. The team should play hard since every one of these players has something to prove and are fighting for a spot on the team. It's only July and I am already going into basketball withdrawal. I can't wait for the Summer League games.
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