The Celtics still have one roster spot open. They still need a shooter/defender at the 3 spot.
Rudy Fernandez is still in play according Julian Benbow of the Globe. So is Larry Hughes.
One thing about Danny. Once he fixes a price on something or someone, he usually sticks to it. He knows the market pretty well. Rajon Rondo, who is also strong minded, had to play a little hard ball to get Ainge to move into double digits on his new contract and Danny is looking good even on that decision. He knew Glen Davis’ value. Getting Shaq for the minimum was shocking. Jermaine O’Neal at the MLE ($5.7 mil)…we’ll see, but even that was understandable.
Trading hasn’t always been his strongest skill, but he works with what he has at any given time. In this case, the Blazers were/are looking for 2 number one draft picks according to many reports. They have also been fishing for a single mid first rounder. Danny will let Rudy ride if it requires 2 first round picks and the Celtics pick will be in the mid 20’s somewhere.
So far, the Fernandez saga has gotten a bit ugly in Portland and he is making noises that he will wait out the 2 years left on his contract and then return to Europe where it is said there will be some big money opportunities for him.
The Blazers have tried to talk to Rudy about giving him a bigger part in their offense. But it appears they are a year too late. And Brandon Roy isn’t going anywhere. Rudy isn’t having it.
He has made it known that the Celtics would be a desired destination. So Danny is waiting to see if Portland will come around. Fernandez is definitely worth a Celtic 1st rounder in the 20’s.
His attitude? They brought in Stephon Marbury, Rasheed Wallace, Sam Cassell, and Nate Robinson. I think they can deal with Rudy. It looks like there should be about 16-18 minutes a game backing up Paul Pierce and perhaps even Ray Allen. He is not James Posey, and he would vie with Marquis Daniels for minutes. Rudy shoots the three and Daniels doesn’t. Daniels can play better defense at this point.
Due to Rudy’s ability to hit long range, a Fernandez acquisition would move newly acquired Von Wafer another seat deeper down the bench. Rudy’s defense would be questioned, but he is young legs, which are needed in my opinion, and besides the three pointer, has major hops. I could envision him getting up and down the court with either unit as part of Doc’s goal of running more. But I’m getting way ahead of things.
Besides Larry Hughes, Greg Payne of Celticsblog has a link in his story on the same subject saying that Delonte West is in town for a try out.
All three are talented players. All three bring some attitude or behavior issues with them. Barring a trade out of the blue (which can happen) it is looking like one of these three players will become a Celtic eventually. The persistent rumors make me think so.
