Free agency begins today, and the Celtics will need finesse.
Beyond re-signing their own players (Glen Davis, Leon Powe), they have only the $5.8 million mid-level exception to offer - preferably split between two good reserves. The problem is that most of the good reserves believe they are worth a full mid-level exception unto themselves this week. Danny Ainge, as a result, may have to wait for the realities of the NBA economy and its shrinking salary cap to sober up the field.
Here are a few possibilities:
JAMARIO MOON - Doc Rivers would like a quality backup for Paul Pierce and the Miami swingman, a revelation when he first broke into the league with Toronto two years ago, intrigues the Celtics . Classic example of a free agent who will demand at least the full mid-level for his next deal.
RASHEED WALLACE - The outside world sees a petulant athlete who often checked out on his own team over the years. The Celtics see a skilled big man who can stretch the floor and pass the defensive sniff test. He's also another Kevin Garnett pal, which means his noxious locker room presence would be nullified. He would undoubtedly demand the full mid-level.
Antonio McDyess - Ainge has tried to sign him in the past, and this could be the time that he gets business done with the smooth-shooting big. McDyess could also be the most economical option, allowing the C's to also bring in another player under the mid-level exception.
THE EURU BANGERS - Marcin Gortat's stock jumped thanks to his postseason play with Orlando, and reportedly wants his next deal to start at $5.8 million or higher. Zaza Pachulia (Atlanta), an active backup who has played well against the Celtics , is another player who expects to earn the full mid-level. Both would have to lower expectations for the Celtics to have serious interest.
Grant Hill - Though he reportedly wants to return to Phoenix, expect the Celtics to make a pitch, with the forward's old coach, Doc Rivers, making the first call. Hill only made $1.2 million last season, and could potentially provide an economical solution to Pierce's relief. He also played 82 games for the first time in his career last season.
HEDO TURKOGLU - The Celtics , like everyone else, are interested. But he's well beyond their price range.
STEPHON MARBURY - He would be a bargain and the Celtics believe he can be even better the next time around.
OTHERS: Charlie Villanueva, Drew Gooden, Shawn Marion, Chris Anderson, Anthony Parker.
