The C's general manager and the agent are expected to talk again in the short time leading up to a Saturday deadline that, if it passes, will direct the point guard to restricted free agency next offseason.

Neither side appears to be concerned about the situation going that far, with Duffy and his client convinced that Rondo can land a lucrative deal at a time when a lot of teams are going to have considerable salary cap room. The Celtics , on the other hand, have yet to be convinced that they will end up paying more for Rondo if he is allowed to become a restricted free agent.

A league source said yesterday that contrary to published reports, Rondo is not seeking a maximum-level contract, though he is still asking for more than the Celtics want to pay.

Scal suits up

Brian Scalabrine, who figures to play a larger role with Glen Davis (thumb surgery) out for the next six weeks, ran through a vigorous pregame shooting drill before the home opener against the Charlotte Bobcats. Scalabrine appeared to move well on his tender ankle and dressed for the game, though coach Doc Rivers said the big forward isn't ready to play.

``It really depends on matchups when he plays,'' Rivers said. ``(Playing against Charlotte) would be a great game for him, but he's injured. But a game like (Tuesday vs. the Cavaliers) we would have gone with Shelden (Williams) anyway. But it doesn't matter because (Scalabrine) isn't ready yet.''

Williams fits

Williams, based on his early contributions, has been a pleasant surprise.

Rivers, who was a big fan of the forward during his years at Duke, praised Williams' consistency.

``He's a solid player,'' Rivers said. ``He was a high draft pick (No. 5 overall in 2006 by the Atlanta Hawks) for a reason, and it's my job and the staff's job to get that out of him. He's a terrific elbow shooter.

``What he has to learn is our system of defense. He has to learn to be a help defender, because we're help (oriented).''

The big question surrounding Williams is why things haven't worked out for him at the NBA level.

``I haven't looked at the past with him,'' Rivers said. ``I just want to look at how he plays and how he fits into what we run.''

Williams is simply focused on fitting in.

``Whether I get the minutes or not, I'm still going to do what I did in the preseason,'' Williams said. ``With (Davis) being out I assume I'm going to get more time, but it's also unfortunate for him not to be here.''

No Baby talk

Rivers said Davis, serving part of a Celtics -imposed suspension, has not apologized to the team for his role in a fight with an old friend from Baton Rouge, La., that left him injured.

``We're not worried about that,'' Rivers said. ``That stuff will take care of itself. I don't even know what (disciplinary action will be taken). That's how far removed from it I am.

``You get upset at your kids, but they're still in the family.''

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