GUTIERREZ
I almost think the injury is a blessing in disguise. Because even though he's one of the elite point guards in the league, Rondo's name kept popping up in trade discussions, even this season. To me, he should be a Celtic throughout his prime, if not for his entire career.
Also -- and there probably aren't too many outside of New England who agree with me on this -- I think Garnett should end his career in a Celtics uniform, assuming they can find a way to stay relevant without moving him.
Taking away Rondo from the Celtics obviously hurts. But Garnett, believe it or not, is still as important to the C's as Rondo. He's the anchor of that defense, and he's the perfect combination of unselfish and skilled on the offensive end. That's why the Rondo-Garnett-Doc Rivers combination is so vital to that franchise. They just fit.
That leaves Pierce. And, for as old as he's looked at times this season, he still has value, especially to a team that's already good.
You mentioned the Clippers. At this point, Pierce might want to be there more than he even wants to be in Boston. Think about it. He's a Southern California guy, so even the Celtics can justify trading a Boston fixture to his hometown, championship-contending team. And you'd be amazed how much "younger" Pierce would look on a team that doesn't require so much of him.
Even if he doesn't end up in L.A., Pierce deserves to be moved to a winning team, if he is traded. Memphis is another destination being floated, which is reasonable. But just the idea of Pierce in a Raptors uniform makes me sad. Please don't let that happen (no offense, Raptors).
Boston, though, needs to find a way to get a true center back, which would make Garnett even more effective, and either an athletic wing or a knock-down shooter. If I'm Ainge, I'd say Pierce, Jason Terry and the sweetener, Jared Sullinger, are all easily movable.
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