Ainge attempts to get Celtics in scoring position

On Basketball

December 11, 2011|By Gary Washburn, Globe Staff

WALTHAM - The uncertainty during the first two days of Celtics camp is a positive sign. It indicates that they are working to improve immediately, shuttling players in and out to position themselves for a legitimate championship run.

The roster, as it was a few days ago, was good enough to win the Atlantic Division, and reach the second round of the playoffs, but not much beyond that. The Celtics had to get younger and more productive off the bench. Last season’s experiments involving Troy Murphy, Von Wafer, Sasha Pavlovic, and Carlos Arroyo failed miserably.

And late Friday night, the Celtics even explored acquiring free agent David West, a pick-and-pop swingman who could greatly boost their offense. The cost would only be the expiring contract of center Jermaine O’Neal, whom the Hornets likely would trade to another club seeking cap space for next summer.

The potential West trade had to be acknowledged after yesterday’s practice, and although coach Doc Rivers couldn’t mention specific players, he did say the Celtics are waiting for free agents to decide on offers.

The Celtics likely would offer West a three-year deal, a risk in that he is coming off left anterior cruciate ligament surgery in March. Reports have indicated his recovery has progressed smoothly, but it apparently has been an issue with some teams.

According to an NBA source, the potential Chris Paul trade to the Lakers is holding up the West deal, so players are in limbo, including O’Neal, who practiced yesterday with the Celtics. With an expiring contract and bad knees, O’Neal realizes he’s trade bait, especially when the Celtics could land a proven scorer who is only 31.

“If it was a deal to New Orleans, I am sure it would be a third team. My stop wouldn’t be New Orleans,’’ said O’Neal. “They are not trying to get older, they are trying to clear cap space.

“At this point in my career, I don’t think any young team that’s trying to get under the cap would trade for me. I’m not concerned about that. If I’m not in Boston, I am going to be where I can win a championship.’’

West averaged 18.9 points and 7.6 rebounds last season, teaming with Paul to give the Hornets a formidable offensive duo. But he opted out of the final year of his contract, seeking a longer, more lucrative deal. He then tore his ACL, missing the final two months of last season.

Leave it to Celtics president Danny Ainge to pursue West when other large-market teams are bypassing him or chasing bigger carrots. The Heat signed Shane Battier Friday night, and the Knicks acquired defensive stopper Tyson Chandler from the Mavericks yesterday. The Nets, meanwhile, are hunting for Magic center Dwight Howard, who requested a trade yesterday.