"Our intention is to have Rondo as our franchise point guard for a decade," Danny Ainge, executive director of Basketball operations, said at the team's annual media day yesterday at HealthPoint, "and I think Rondo wants to be here for a long time as well. So these things are just about dollar amounts, and it has no bearing on where we are with him and what we feel about him and our intentions. We may do something in October, and we may do something next summer. We'll have the ability to match. We'll play that by ear."

Asked if he wanted to remain a Celtic for the next decade, Rondo replied, "I want to be wherever I'm wanted for the next 10 years. If Danny wants me, I'll be here for the next 10 years."

In other words, "show me the money."

"I don't think it will be on my mind," Rondo said. "I won't allow it to affect me throughout the season. But of course, everybody wants security. It would be great if I could sign now, but the focus is the ring. I'll let my agent handle the contract stuff."

Ainge talked with Rondo a week and a half ago, but about the upcoming season, not his contract. Ainge did begin to talk contract with Rondo's agent Bill Duffy last week.

Ainge said he wouldn't address Rondo's contract status again until he signed or the Oct. 31 deadline.

Through weight training and a better diet, Rondo gained 11 pounds during the summer, and he's up to 186. Glen "Big Baby" Davis reported to camp 25-30 pounds lighter, and Kendrick Perkins dropped 15.

The Celtics begin training camp with 16 players, one over the maximum, after the signings of second-round pick Lester Hudson and free agent forward Michael Sweetney. Still recovering from offseason foot surgery, Tony Allen isn't ready to go full tilt yet.