Marbury is biding time

He says he'll speak when time is right

February 26, 2009|Marc J. Spears, Globe Staff

LOS ANGELES - After Stephon Marbury's outspokenness seemed to hurt more than help in New York, the former Knicks guard would rather be quiet now than speak frankly about what could be in Boston.

If everything goes as expected and Marbury signs with the Celtics tomorrow, he said he will gladly answer questions.

Celtics president Danny Ainge has had contract discussions with NBA Players' union deputy counsel Hal Biagas, who is serving as Marbury's agent. An NBA source said if Marbury clears waivers tomorrow and signs with the Celtics for a prorated veteran's minimum of $1.3 million, he could play against Indiana tomorrow. Marbury acknowledged he is in New York City working out.

Marbury told the Globe via e-mail yesterday he won't speak on the record until he is a free agent.

"Some people think it's a foregone conclusion," coach Doc Rivers said of Marbury coming to the Celtics. "Honestly, I hope it is. But until it is, we will wait and see. Once upon a time he was a talented player. We hope he can help us. So we'll see."

The Celtics believe Marbury can apply the positive energy needed to be a major contributor this season. Marbury, 32, averaged 13.9 points and 4.7 assists in 24 games for the Knicks last season, but he hasn't played in a regular-season game since Jan. 11, 2008.

"The talent of Marbury is undeniable," Paul Pierce said. "He's been one of the best point guards. And we feel when you get him around the veteran group we have around here that things will become different. I have been able to become a different player with the veterans we acquired and I feel the same about him."

Said Ray Allen: "Stephon has been an extraordinary talent during his career. He definitely can help us. It will be interesting when he gets here. I know what it was like with me making the adjustment here, Kevin [Garnett] making the adjustment, even Paul making the adjustment. Stephon has been a franchise player and if he can make the adjustment to the situation, he can definitely help us."

Marbury fell into the doghouse of then-Knicks coach Isiah Thomas during the 2007-08 season. With Thomas gone, new Knicks president Donnie Walsh and new coach Mike D'Antoni preferred a new script without Marbury last offseason. After being suspended from the team for allegedly refusing to play in a game, Marbury was outspoken about his disappointment. He eventually worked out a buyout Tuesday.

Few question Marbury's ability. But many skeptics wonder if Marbury will fit in with the Celtics or be a distraction. Pierce said a point will be made to Marbury and newcomer Mikki Moore, who was signed Tuesday, that the Celtics are about sacrificing, understanding your role, and winning. Pierce also said the players police each other in private if needed.