“We’re trying to do the same thing. We’re trying to improve our team. We’re not trying to change our team, but we’re trying to improve it. We have a legit shot at winning it this season and we won’t jeopardize that chance to try and win a championship this year.’’
Ainge, speaking yesterday at a pre-NBA draft press conference at the team’s practice facility, has lately been occupied with potential deals as much as possible draft choices; the Celtics have the 58th selection in tomorrow’s draft. Ainge shot down reports of trades involving Ray Allen and/or Rajon Rondo.
“We love Rajon,’’ Ainge said. “I think everybody knows how good of a player he is and what sort of a bright future he has. It’s amazing, I hope each one of you can maintain your integrity through this world of media that we live in - it doesn’t even seem like you have to have any kind of source anymore, you just write stuff and print stuff, and things can just come out of the air.
“It’s a little bit frustrating sometimes, because I’ve got to manage those players. And their agents, and their mothers, and their wives, and, in some cases, their children. But the one thing I can assure you, I will never sit up here and say there is any player that is untradeable, ever.
“But the notion that we might be trading [Rondo] because of his contract situation, I’ve heard speculation, or that we’re dissatisfied with him, or his attitude. I mean, that stuff is so false. He showed up late for a playoff game, so we’re going to trade him - none of those things are true.
“We love the kid and we think he’s got a very bright future. I don’t anticipate any trades happening in this offseason regarding any of our core players.’’
Ainge said Allen inquired about a trade report that “was completely a fabrication.’’
Ainge added, “Like I tell all of the players that have been around - and I’ve talked to all of them - they are all curious when they hear things. But I pretty much tell them they’re all not untradeable. I’ll trade any one of you.
