Reports note that the Celtics are shopping Rondo in potential with New Orleans to land Paul.
Reports indicate that Rondo could be involved in a deal the Celtics were discussing with New Orleans that would send Chris Paul to Boston.Celtics fans enjoyed a collective sigh of relief last week when the news broke of the NBA salvaging the regular season and beginning on Christmas Day. But as quickly as members of Celtics Nation rejoiced, their happiness was taken away Tuesday with news of the Celtics shopping point guard Rajon Rondo.
Reports indicate that Rondo could be involved in a deal the Celtics were discussing with New Orleans that would send Chris Paul to Boston.
Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo! Sports also reported that the Indiana Pacers have been approached by Boston to be a third team in any such deal.
While the rumors flew across the web and airwaves, a number of outlets tried to clear the air. WEEI.com sorted through the mess with a game of fact vs. fiction, Boston.com combed through the rumors and the Sporting News called the news a ploy by the Celtics as a way to motivate Rondo.
The Celtics' motivation for making the Rondo-for-Paul deal seems to stem more from a desire to acquire Paul then to get ride of Rondo. Among the league's elite point guards, Rondo has a knack for scoring on the drive, rebounding and defense, lacking a strong shooting touch. What does Paul bring? All of the above.
As for money, Rondo has four years and $46 million remaining on his contract. Paul will be a free agent at the end of the 2011-2012 season, which will mean the Celtics will seek a contract extension before any deal is finalized.
Another report noted that the Celtics had offered Oklahoma City Rondo and Jeff Green in exchange for Russell Westbrook and Kendrick Perkins following last season.
Still, all of this trade chatter could be for not. ESPN.com's Chris Broussard has been on the topic over the last 24 hours and reported earlier today that Paul is not willing to sign a long-term extension with the Celtics.