Iverson is not the answer

At present, Boston still does not qualify, and this deal should not be misconstrued as the catalyst that will turn everything around. Telfair was acquired because he made it possible to unload Raef LaFrentz's cumbersome contract (that's after Theo Ratliff is off the books in two years), while adding a true point guard with uptempo skills.

That fits the style of the Celtics, who have carved out a little cap space to go along with a roster loaded with kids who may -- or may not -- turn into impact players. The plan is to use some of these select youngsters to pry away a veteran star.

I'm all for that. But please don't blow it by taking on Allen Iverson.

First, my Iverson disclaimer: When he's on the floor and between the lines, all 165 pounds of him, there are few guys who play with more grit. On game night, Iverson plays hard, plays hurt, and plays with heart.

If only he would approach the rest of his career with the same passion and commitment. Instead, he has often diminished his immense talent by proving to be a distraction to his coaches and his teammates.

Iverson has problems with certain rules. He has trouble being on time. He has trouble taking care of himself. He has trouble respecting coaches. He has trouble understanding the value of practice. In fact, he rarely practices at all. Sometimes, this is fine with his club. Often times, it isn't.

His teammates in Philly have grown to accept the A.I. star system. I suppose Boston's players could, too. But it sure seems like a mixed message to put the future of the franchise in Iverson's hands when you are trying to convince young guys such as Al Jefferson to take their conditioning programs and their practice habits more seriously.

Then there's the matter of ball control. Iverson has shown the willingness to dish when he's trapped or doubled; in fact, he averaged 7.4 assists for the Sixers last season. But when the game is on the line, Iverson needs the ball in his hands -- just the way Paul Pierce does. Could those two make each other better? Perhaps. But it would be naive to believe there won't be some struggles to establish a pecking order.