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Jeff Green's Contract Situation With Celtics Is Confusing

The contract negotiations surrounding Boston Celtics unrestricted free agent forward Jeff Green has turned into a sordid affair with several twists and turns.

After the need for season-ending heart surgery in December, the organization pulled a qualifying offer, which eliminated the possibility of a sign-and-trade. In July, the two sides came to terms on a four-year deal worth $36 million that has yet to be signed.

However, a report was recently published by the Boston Globe that stated that the deal would be officially announced in the coming week. With this in mind, the delay in the announcement could be the result of the two sides trying to figure out how to handle any potential health issues Green may suffer in the future.

While the soon-to-be 26-year-old Georgetown product has stated that he feels better than he ever has, the organization will likely want to protect themselves from any unfortunate developments that could occur over the course of the deal.

This creates a trickle down effect that could include the contract's structure, which impacts how much annually the Celtics have to pay Green as well as how close to the $74 million salary cap apron the contract will place the team.

For more on the Celtics, please be sure to visit our site CelticsBlog and SB Nation Bostonfor all the latest news and updates.

Jason Terry Predicts NBA Championship For Boston Celtics In 2012

Jason Terry's belief that he can help Boston bring home another NBA Championship this season is more than skin-deep - or however deep tattoo ink goes, anyway - he reiterated his belief that the Celtics are bound to win a Larry O'Brien Trophy in 2013 in an interview with Boston's CBS affiliate:

"If I looked at our team and what they accomplished last year - they're one game away. They're one game away from going back to the NBA finals, and I think they win it," Terry told WBZ-TV's Steve Burton Thursday at the Reebok Headquarters in Canton.

"This year, put a little ‘Jet Fuel' into the mix, and I think we have the team," laughed a confident Terry.

Terry's always found a way to be extra-cocky and confident, but he's backed up his talk and his pretending-to-be-a-plane with his on-court play: Terry has averaged over 15 points all but two times in his 15 year NBA career and has shot over 34.7 percent from three every year since his rookie year, nailing 37.8 percent of his triples in 2011-2012. And of course, the last time he guaranteed a ring with a tattoo, his prognostication turned out to be right, as his bench play was pivotal in helping the Mavericks to the 2011 NBA Championship. Terry won't fully replace Ray Allen, but he's proven he can contribute on winning teams. If he does win a ring in Boston, it had better come soon, as Terry is 34, and the rest of the squad aren't exactly spring chickens either.

For more on the Celtics, there's Celtics Blog and stick to SB Nation Boston.

Jeff Green Contract: Celtics Will Reportedly Make Deal Official Next Week

The Boston Celtics are reportedly close to finalizing their deal with Jeff Green, and the Boston Globe's Gary Washburn reports that agent David Falk thinks it will be official next week. Washburn reported on Saturday that Falk was working to finalize the outstanding minor issues:

For those who missed it earlier, David Falk, the agent for Jeff Green, told Boston Globe that his client's deal with #celtics is close and should be official next week.

The framework of the deal was agreed upon at the beginning of the NBA free agency season in July. It's reportedly a four-year deal worth $36 million.

Green became an unrestricted free agent after the Celtics pulled back a qualifying offer last winter. But the two sides came to an agreement as free agency opened this summer, with the Celtics even holding a press conference with Green.

At the end of July, Falk said the deal was imminent and that just some minor issues involving CBA changes were being worked out. But no deal was ever officially announced. It's still unclear how much of the deal will be guaranteed, but everything should be finalized in the coming week.

For more on the Celtics, please be sure to visit our site CelticsBlog and SB Nation Bostonfor all the latest news and updates.

Jason Terry Tattoos Boston Celtics' Mascot Onto Arm, Wins The Offseason

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Celtics Offseason 2012: Paul Pierce Will Test Free Agency In 2013

Paul Pierce isn't waiting around to let his intentions be known for when his contract expires.

One of the greatest Boston Celtics players of all-time doesn't want a contract extension, opting instead to test free agency after next season, according to SI.com.

In an interview with Gary Washburn of the Boston Globe on Saturday, Pierce stated the following:

"I think I am going to play this one out," Pierce said. "I want to see what it feels like to be a free agent for once in my life. I think I am going to play this one out. A lot can change in two years. My body [may not] be where I want it to be, I could retire, a lot of things could happen. I love the game. I made as much money as I possibly can. It’s about winning a championship and if I feel like it’s the right thing to do, maybe so [come back]. If I solidify my third year, maybe they opt out, so it’s about keeping your options open."

Despite being 34-years-old, Pierce remains very valuable to the squad after averaging just over 19 points per game in 2011-12. If he decides to leave after what will be his 15th season with Boston, it would be a hammer to the heart of many Celtics fans.

For more on the Celtics, please be sure to visit our site CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.

Paul Pierce: I'm 'Bitter' About Ray Allen

Boston Celtics Sign Keyond Dooling And 3 Others Tuesday

The Boston Celtics' front office was busy Tuesday, announcing the signings of four players. Keyon Dooling re-signed for a second season, while Jason Collins, Jamar Smith and Dionte Christmas were all brought in as free agents.

Dooling is a 12-year veteran of the NBA. He averaged just 4.0 points and 1.1 assists in 14.4 minutes per game last season. He was instrumental at times during the playoffs in place of a hobbled Ray Allen. He scored a season-high 18 points on Dec. 27 against the Miami Heat.

Collins looks to fill the strong defensive role that Greg Stiemsma held coming off the bench last season for the Celtics. The 7'0 Collins averaged 1.3 points and 1.6 rebounds in 10.3 minutes per game last season with the Atlanta Hawks.

Smith and Christmas both shined during summer league play this season. Smith played well in particular, averaging 9.2 points per game while shooting 45 percent from beyond the 3-point arc. Christmas starred for AGO Reythymno Aegean in Greece last season, averaging 18.6 points, 4.4 rebounds, 3.0 assists and 1.6 steals per game.

Terms of the deals were not disclosed per team policy.

For more Boston Celtics offseason coverage, visit our team page and our team blog, CelticsBlog.

Celtics Offseason 2012: Celtics Schedule Released

The Boston Celtics will begin their 2012-2013 campaign on October 30 when they re-visit the scene of their heartbreaking Game Seven loss to the Miami Heat in last years Eastern Conference Finals according to the schedule that the NBA released Thursday night.

In addition to that high profile match-up on opening night, the Celtics will again be playing on Christmas Day, this time in Brooklyn against the new look Nets. Some other highlights on the schedule include: The Los Angeles Lakers making their only visit of the season to Boston on February 7th, and Ray Allen returning to Boston as a member of the Heat for the first time on March 18th. In addition, the C's will be featured on national television 26 times during the 2012-2013 season, including a Sunday afternoon tilt on ABC against the defending Western Conference Champion Oklahoma City Thunder on March 10.

The annual post All-Star break trip to the West Coast looks especially brutal this year, with the team scheduled to play five games in seven nights against the Denver Nuggets, Lakers, Phoenix Suns, Portland Trailblazers, and Utah Jazz.

To see the entire schedule, click here.

For more Boston Celtics offseason coverage, visit our team page and our team blog,CelticsBlog.

2012-13 Boston Celtics Schedule To Be Released Thursday Night

The Boston Celtics will learn their 20120-2013 season schedule on Thursday night.

NBA Free Agency: Mickael Pietrus Return Looks Doubtful

For those Boston Celtics fans who possibly own a Mickael Pietrus jersey, it soon could be considered a throwback very soon. That's because the free agent swingman and his agent Bill McCandless made it clear to Boston's WEEI Thursday, that the 30-year-old will not play for the veteran minimum -- a $1.23 million salary which more than likely will be the cap-strapped Celtics offer.

"MP will not play for the veteran’s minimum. Period," said McCandless. "It’s not happening. That’s the beginning, middle and end of that. … He is not a veteran’s minimum player. There’s no chance he’ll ever sign for that."

According to McCandless, Pietrus has bigger contract offers from a team overseas and knows other NBA teams will pay his client more than the veteran minimum.

"I’ve had the veteran minimum thrown at me like hubcaps," added McCandless. "In this collective bargaining agreement, a component of any player’s wishes and desires is the money teams are willing to pay. They’re pro athletes. My mother might cry in her beer when Johnny Damon runs away to the Yankees, but you and I understand it’s a business."

Last season, Pietrus was acquired by the Cs in December after the Phoenix Suns waived him. In 42 games with Boston, Pietrus averaged just 6.9 points and 3.9 rebounds a game.

For more Boston Celtics offseason coverage, visit our team page and our team blog,CelticsBlog.

Celtics Offseason 2012: C's Set To Open 2012-2013 Campaign In Miami

For the Boston Celtics, the season ended bitterly in Miami against the eventual champion Heat, and according to a release from the Miami Sun Sentinel, that's where the 2012-2013 season will also begin.

Via the Sun Sentinel:

While the complete NBA schedule will not be released until later, the Sun Sentinel has learned that the Miami Heat will open the 2012-13 NBA regular season on Tuesday Oct. 30 at AmericanAirlines Arena against the Celtics.

The rivalry between the two teams has been among the most heated (no pun intended) in the league over the last two years and was only given more juice this off-season when sniper Ray Allen signed on with the Heat, spurning a Celtics offer that was rumored to be worth double what Miami could offer.

The Celtics have done well this off-season to replace him though, as they've added sixth man extraordinaire Jason Terry, Courtney Lee, and a re-signed Jeff Green to a bench that was desperately lacking quality last season. The team also re-signed Brandon Bass, Kevin Garnett and Chris Wilcox with the hope of overthrowing the defending champions.

For more Boston Celtics offseason coverage, visit our team page and our team blog,CelticsBlog.

2012 NBA Free Agency: Dionte Christmas, Boston Celtics Reach Agreement

Dionte Christmas has reached an agreement with the Boston Celtics, a team source told ESPNBoston.com on Sunday. The length and financial details of the contract have not yet been disclosed. In any case, Christmas didn't seem too hung up on the specifics when he commented after the C's summer league loss to the Los Angeles Clippers.

"I actually got the call before the game started," Christmas said. "I don't really know all the details now, but I'm going to go over them with the staff. But I'm just happy, man, emotional. I actually got the call literally two minutes before the game started."

The Celtics were reportedly negotiating with Christmas' representatives throughout the week. If a deal didn't get done, the 25-year-old shooting guard may have gone to Europe instead.

Christmas has played very well during the 2012 Orlando and Las Vegas summer leagues, though he had a rough outing Sunday. He finished with six points on 1-for-4 shooting, making it the first time this summer he didn't score in double digits.

For more Boston Celtics coverage, visit our team page and team blog, CelticsBlog.

NBA Free Agency 2012: Greg Stiemsma Signs With Timberwolves

The Boston Celtics have lost restricted free agent Greg Stiemsma to the Minnesota Timberwolves, as the NBA salary cap forced the Cs hands. According to reports, Stiemsma will be making about $3 million a year with the Timberwoleves, a number that would have pushed Boston over the $74.3 salary cap.

The Celtics were reluctant to offer Stiemsma, who briefly became a league sensation after joining the team as a training camp invite, that valuable exception and team president of basketball operations Danny Ainge told the Globe on Friday that Stiemsma was "a free agent still exploring his options. We're just waiting to see what happens."

Stiemsma's departure comes on the same day the Cs inked a deal with 11-year veteran Jason Collins. In his time with Boston, Stiemsma won the hearts of Celtics fans by being an outstanding defender.

For more Boston Celtics coverage, visit our team page and team blog, CelticsBlog.

Jason Collins Signing: Boston Celtics Land Veteran Center Collins

Jason Collins, an 11-year veteran center, has reportedly signed a one-year contract with the Boston Celtics, according to sources of Chris Forsberg of ESPN Boston. The deal is for the veteran minimum of $1.35 million.

The Boston Celtics are set to sign veteran center Jason Collins to a one-year, veteran-minimum deal, according to league sources. (via ESPN Boston)

The move comes on the same day that the Celtics lost free agent center Greg Stiemsma, who made the team as a training camp invitee as a rookie last season and carved out a role as a shot-blocking and defensive specialist, to the Minnesota Timberwolves on an offer sheet that the team could not afford to match.

Collins has played for four teams -- the New Jersey Nets, Memphis Grizzlies, Timberwolves and Atlanta Hawks -- and spent the last three seasons in Atlanta. Last season, Collins averaged 1.3 points and 1.2 rebounds in 10.3 minutes per game in 30 games played. Collins' best season came in 2004-05 with the Nets, when he averaged 6.4 points and 6.1 boards in 80 games, all of which he started.

For more Boston Celtics coverage, visit our team page and team blog, CelticsBlog.

Celtics Free Agency 2012: Greg Stiemsma Leaves For Minnesota

The Boston Celtics lost a big man on Saturday, with center Greg Stiemsma leaving to join the Minnesota Timberwolves.

The terms of the contract are yet to be released to the public.

According to Jerry Zgoda via twitter, Stiemsma signed with Minnesota, join forces with Kevin Love and Ricky Rubio. A role player, Stiemsma played in 55 games last season for Boston (starting three). The 26-year-old averaged 2.9 points, 3.2 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game in 2011-12.

At 6-foot-11 and 260 pounds, the T-Wolves add to their bench while the Celtics are left to fill the void. Doc Rivers and co. should be in good shape however after drafting the likes of Jared Sullinger and Fab Melo.

With so much youthful size, the Celtics could afford to let Stiemsma walk if the price wasn't absolutely right. Considering the recent additions of Courtney Lee and Jason Terry, Boston would have been hard pressed to keep him.

For more on the Celtics, please be sure to visit our site CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.

Paul Pierce Injury: Knee 'Will Be Fine' According To Doc Rivers

Paul Pierce reportedly played throughout the Boston Celtics' run to the 2012 Eastern Conference Finals with a sprained MCL in his left knee and has been taking it easy this offseason as a result. Head coach Doc Rivers seemed unfazed when asked about the injury during Thursday's summer league game.

"His knee will be fine," Rivers said. "But his injury was he had to rest it. He should not have been playing to get healthy. The only way you can get healthy with his knee was rest. So he'll be fine."

Pierce struggled against the Miami Heat, shooting just 34.4 percent from the floor. He still managed to average 18.9 rebounds, 6.0 rebounds and 3.1 assists over the course of the playoffs, however. The veteran forward will turn 35 in October as he enters his 15th season in the NBA.

For more on Pierce and the Celtics, check out CelticsBlog and head over to SB Nation Boston.

Celtics Free Agency 2012: Ryan Hollins Agrees To Deal With Clippers

Free agent center Ryan Hollins has reportedly agreed to a deal with the Los Angeles Clippers, ending his time in a Boston Celtics uniform (via Los Angeles Times).

Hollins signed a one-year deal with the Clippers, likely worth $1.065 million. Hollins' agent said his client is glad to be back in Los Angeles (Hollins went to UCLA in college). "Ryan is happy to be a Clipper. He's happy to be back in L.A. and he's looking forward to helping the Clippers."

The seven-footer spent time with the Cavaliers and Celtics last season and averaged 3.4 points and 2.1 rebounds in 13.4 minutes per game. Hollins played in 15 games for Boston, starting once. He also played 17 postseason games for the Celtics, averaging 1.5 points and 1.5 rebounds in 10 minutes.

Hollins will fill out the Clippers' depth at center which will now be four deep.

For more Boston Celtics coverage, visit our team page and blog, CelticsBlog.

Boston Celtics Acquire Courtney Lee In Sign And Trade With Rockets

Courtney Lee has been acquired by the Boston Celtics, according to Yahoo! Sports. Boston landed the free agent guard in a sign-and-trade with the Houston Rockets, in which the Celtics sent JaJuan Johnson back to Houston.

Celtics Offseason 2012: Boston Reportedly Has Interest In Carlos Delfino

The Boston Celtics have already been quite busy this offseason, and it doesn't appear they're ready to slow down just yet.

Doc Rivers and co. are reportedly looking to add another shooter from the outside, this time in the person of Carlos Delfino, according to WEEI.com.

Delfino played last season with the Milwaukee Bucks, averaging 9.0 points per game to accompany 2.3 assists. The 29-year-old is planning on playing in the Olympics for his native Argentina, despite having undergone surgery in May to repair a sports hernia.

It's likely Avery Bradley will still be recovering from having both shoulders repaired when the 2012-13 season rolls around, so having a capable and experienced guard to play alongside newcomer Jason Terry is a priority.

Boston also is rumored to be courting Mickael Pietrus. Pietrus is a familiar face having played last year for Boston, and was a nice fit off the bench scoring just under 7.0 points per game and shooting 33.5 percent from 3-point land.

For more on the Celtics, please be sure to visit our site CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.

Celtics Offseason 2012: E'Twaun Moore Not Worried About Contract Situation

Second-year point guard E'Twaun Moore is currently in Las Vegas playing for the Boston Celtics in the NBA's summer league. The team has until Sunday to decide whether or not to guarantee his contract for the 2012-2013 season or he'll become an unrestricted free-agent.

According to Moore, neither he nor his agent haven't had any discussions with regard to his future with the team, but to his credit, he hasn't let any of this affect or distract him. He's just focused on competing hard in summer league and trying to get better, according to a report by the Boston Herald:

"We haven't talked about it at all, but they don't have to," Moore said. "I understand what's happening. I know they've got until Sunday. That's just a few days away, so I just want to keep playing and hope for the best and things will work out."

Celtics GM, Danny Ainge, offered high praise for Moore and his comments could lead one to believe that Moore will be back in Boston next season:

"I like how E'Twaun's playing," Ainge said. "I like how he's performed in the summer league. I like how he performed last year in short minutes. I like how he carries himself. He can shoot, he can handle (the ball), he can defend.

"He's just a complete, solid player and a top-notch kid."

Read more on the Celtics at the CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston.

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Jason Terry Signing: Boston Celtics Send Press Release

Gary Washburn of the Boston Globe reported earlier Wednesday that the Celtics had signed veteran guard Jason Terry to a mid-level deal. Now the Celtics have sent out a press release announcing the signing, with President of Basketball Operations Danny Ainge having this to say about Terry:

"Jason is one of the best sixth men in the NBA and his versatility in the backcourt is a great addition to our roster."

Terry averaged just over 15 points a game for the Dallas Mavericks last season and is best known for his 2009 Sixth Man of the Year award and his role in the Mavs' 2011 NBA Championship. Terry shot close to 38 percent from beyond the 3-point line (around his career average) last season. For his career, Terry has averaged 16.1 points, 4.7 assists and 1.3 steals per game.

Here are his comments:

"The Celtics have such a great tradition of winning and it was something that drew me to the team right away. I look forward to getting out onto the court and helping this team in its pursuit of another banner."

Read more on the Celtics at the CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston.

Celtics Free Agency 2012: Jason Terry Signs Mid-Level Contract With Boston

The Celtics basically replaced veteran leadership with veteran leadership in seeing Ray Allen sign with the Miami Heat this offseason, but acquiring former Mavericks point guard Jason Terry in free agency. Gary Washburn reported on Wednesday that Terry and the Celtics inked a mid-level deal. Terry, 34, agreed to a three-year deal beginning at $5 million per season, but it is unclear if those are the specifics of the final deal.

According to an NBA source, Jason Terry just signed his contract with the #celtics. Its official. Terry signs for mid-level exception

— gary washburn (@GwashNBAGlobe) July 18, 2012

Terry, of course, has just as much championship pedigree as the core of the Celtics team, having won a championship with the Mavs in 2010-11.

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Celtics Offseason 2012: Danny Ainge Says Ray Allen "Left Us"

When talking to the media on Saturday, Boston Celtics general manager Danny Ainge was asked about why he didn't retain shooting guard Ray Allen, who left to join the Miami Heat. Ainge spoke with a direct and clear answer according to ESPN.com.

"I don't feel like we lost Ray; I feel like Ray left us to go to Miami," said Ainge.

However, it's not as though Ainge was taking a parting shot at Allen, but rather explaining the situation. He went on to express his gratitude of the future hall-of-famer.

"We appreciate all that Ray's done, and all that him and (Allen's wife) Shannon have done in our community. We tried to get Ray back; he chose to go to Miami."

Allen, 37, was replaced as a starter by Avery Bradley down the stretch while he was suffering with an ankle injury. The Celtics ended up nabbing Jason Terry off the free agent list to replace Allen, lessening the blow to the team.

While Ainge seems at peace with Allen's decision to play for the defending world champs, he couldn't hide a little bit of hurt.

"You'd have to ask Ray the decisions why (he signed with Miami)," Ainge said. "I talked with Ray a lot over the last five years, I'm a fan of Ray and, like I said, I'm grateful for what he's done. He'll always be part of that 2008 championship and the success we've had since then as well. But, I have a feeling that it wasn't one thing. I think it was an accumulation of lots of things, including the lure of Miami. I'll just leave it at that."

For more on the Celtics, please be sure to check out our site CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.

Celtics Offseason 2012: Kevin Garnett, Chris Wilcox And Brandon Bass Re-Sign With Boston

The Boston Celtics have made it official: Brandon Bass, Chris Wilcox and Kevin Garnett will all be adorned in green once again next season and beyond.

The Celtics re-signed all three forwards on Saturday, coming as little shock to the fan base.

Garnett is of course the headliner of the trio. After much speculation whether or not Garnett would retire, he decided to come back after a bounce-back year. While terms weren't disclosed, the deal is rumored to be for three years and $30 million.

"I’m more than happy and I’m excited to be back!" said Garnett.

General manager Danny Ainge added that he couldn't be happier to see Garnett once again leading his team.

"We are ecstatic that Kevin will continue his career with the Celtics," said Ainge. "Kevin has greatly changed the culture since he first put on a Celtics jersey and he has come to embody everything that we want in a Celtic."

Bass averaged 12.5 points and 6.2 rebounds per game last season, proving to be a key contributor. Ainge clearly feels good about retaining the youngster.

"Bringing Brandon back to the team was a top priority of ours after the season had ended," said Ainge. "Brandon has improved as a player every year that he has been in the NBA and we believe that the best is yet to come from him."

Wilcox returns after missing the end of the season due to a heart condition. The power forward/center played just over 17 minutes per game last year and showed that he can provide nice depth in the frontcourt.

"In bringing Chris back to the team, we are gaining a very versatile guy who is capable of banging down low in the paint and is able to run out on the break as well," said Ainge.

For more on the Celtics, please check out our site CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.

NBA Free Agency Rumors 2012: Chris Wilcox Expects To Re-Sign With Boston Celtics

The Boston Celtics anticipate re-signing free agent big man Chris Wilcox, A. Sherrod Blakely of CSNNE reported on Friday, and the 29-year-old Wilcox seems to believe it's a done deal.

#CelticsTalk: "I'm definitely excited to be back," Chris Wilcox, a soon-to-be #Celtics big man again, told CSNNE.com.

— A. Sherrod Blakely (@SherrodbCSN) July 13, 2012

Wilcox averaged 5.4 points and 4.4 rebounds in 17.2 minutes per game with the Celtics last season, but his season was cut short in March when a routine examination revealed that he had a cardiac irregularity that required season-ending heart surgery.

Wilcox recently returned to the court, and is not expected to experience any long-term issues as a result of his repaired heart condition. It's not yet clear whether he will receive a veteran's minimum contract or sign with a deal that is more substantial.

For more Boston Celtics offseason coverage, visit our team page and our team blog,CelticsBlog.

Celtics Offseason 2012: Avery Bradley's Surgery Will Cost Him Start Of Season, Courtney Lee In Play?

The Boston Celtics will not have shooting guard Avery Bradley for the start of the 2012-2013 season due to right shoulder surgery, according to a report (via A. Sherrod Blakely). Bradley's surgery is scheduled for Tuesday. Bradley has already had surgery on his left shoulder this offseason.

Without Bradley, the Celtics will have to make adjustments with the roster players they have such as new signing Jason Terry. However, the C's are also reportedly interested in Courtney Lee of the Houston Rockets. Lee met with Boston head coach Doc Rivers on Saturday (via ESPN Boston). The free agent guard hit 40 percent of his three-pointers (1.5 threes made per game) for Houston last season and scored 11.4 points per game.

The Celtics will be trying to replace what they lost from Ray Allen, who signed with the Miami Heat. Allen shot 45.3 percent from beyond the arc (2.3 threes made per game) and 14.2 points per game.

For more Boston Celtics offseason coverage, visit our team page and our team blog,CelticsBlog.

Celtics Free Agency Rumors: Courtney Lee Meets With Doc Rivers, According To Sources

While most of Boston Celtics nation begins the healing process of losing veteran shooter Ray Allen, the franchise's front office brass and head coach Doc Rivers are moving on and looking for a replacement. The search could end shortly, however, as ESPN,com's Marc Stein is reporting the Cs are interested in acquiring the Houston Rockets' Courtney Lee, who met with Rivers on Saturday night.

The Celtics don't have the salary-cap space to sign Lee outright, but sources say that the Houston Rockets have let it be known that they're willing to participate in sign-and-trade deals with both Marcus Camby and Lee amid the increasing likelihood that neither of those coveted free agents will be returning to Houston.

Last season, Lee made 40-percent of his 3-point attempts which helped him average 11.4 points per game. Those numbers, however, aren't close to Allen's 45.3-percent from 3-point land and 14.2 ppg.

For more Boston Celtics offseason coverage, visit our team page and our team blog, CelticsBlog.

Avery Bradley Injury Update: Celtics Guard Targeting Return For Training Camp

Avery Bradley is targeting to return during training camp for the Boston Celtics after undergoing shoulder surgery during the 2012 NBA playoffs. There was some speculation that the shooting guard would miss the beginning of the regular season, but Bradley has apparently responded well in rehab.

One league source said Bradley has "looked really good" since undergoing the procedure, and that barring a setback a return during training camp is well within reason. That's good news for the Celtics, who may counting on Bradley to take on an expanded role after Ray Allen signed with the Miami Heat.

There is still plenty of reason to be cautious. Bradley suffered setback while rehabbing from ankle surgery before his rookie season, and as a result struggled to make his way on the court last year. He averaged 7.6 points and 1.4 assists in 21.6 minutes per game last season with the Celtics. He shot 40.7 percent from beyond the 3-point arc.

For more Boston Celtics coverage, visit our team page and our team blog, CelticsBlog.

NBA Free Agency: Jeff Green, Celtics Agree To 'Framework Of A Deal,' According To Report

The Boston Celtics and free agent forward Jeff Green have agreed to a "framework of a deal" according to Ken Berger of CBSSports.com.

The 6-foot-9 Green came to the Celtics at the 2011 trade deadline in the deal which sent Kendrick Perkins to the Oklahoma City Thunder. He averaged 9.8 points and 3.3 rebounds in 26 games with Boston after the deadline day deal.

Green missed the entire 2011-12 season after having heart surgery to repair an aortic aneurysm. Green's agent David Falk told Berget that the way the Celtics handled Green's recovery was "First Class", and was one of the main reasons why Green came back to Boston.

In his 5-year career, Green has averaged 13.9 points and 5.6 rebounds a game since being drafted fifth overall by the then Seattle SuperSonics in 2007.

Terms of the deal have not been released.

For more Boston Celtics coverage, visit our team page and our team blog, CelticsBlog.

NBA Free Agency 2012: Greg Stiemsma To Meet With Timberwolves

Boston Celtics restricted free agent Greg Stiemsma will meet with the Timberwolves according to Gary Washburn of the Boston Globe.

Stiemsma and his agent Mike Naiditch were set to meet with Timberwolves GM David Kahn on Friday, but it was postponed until Saturday due to Minnesota signing veteran guard Brandon Roy and their desire to sign Portland Trailblazers swingman Nicholas Batum

The Celtics made a $1.1 million qualifying offer to Stiemsma, and have the right to match any offer sheet that Stiemsma signs with the Timberwolves or any other team that is interested in the Wisconsin product.

Naiditch said he was only concerned with Boston not matching an offer sheet if the Celtics re-signed Ray Allen. With Allen heading to Miami, the Celtics shouldn't have a problem finding the necessary funds to keep Stiemsma back to Boston.

For more Boston Celtics coverage, visit our team page and our team blog, CelticsBlog.

Ray Allen Will Reportedly Leave Boston Celtics, Sign With Miami Heat

The Big Three era is officially over. Ray Allen has decided to leave the Boston Celtics and take his talents to South Beach to join LeBron James and the Miami Heat, according to multiple reports. Allen spent five seasons in Boston.

Ray Allen Free Agency Rumors 2012: Star Leaves Miami Heat Visit Still Undecided On Future

Free agent guard Ray Allen left Miami without giving the Heat an answer to their contract offer but remains undecided about where he will play next season, reports Brian Windhorst of ESPN.

According to David Aldridge of NBA.com, Allen is also receiving interest from the Minnesota Timberwolves and Memphis Grizzlies but has no plans to visit either team.

The most the Heat can offer the 36-year old under the new collective bargaining agreement is a three-year, $9.5-million contract. The Celtics have already offered a reported deal of two years and $12 million, and are also reportedly willing to include assurances against trading the 16-year NBA veteran designed to allay his fears of being included in trade discussions.

Allen averaged 14.2 points this past season, shooting a career-best 45.3 percent from downtown. He required offseason ankle surgery to remove bone spurs that bothered him throughout Boston's playoff run.

For more NBA Free Agency 2012 coverage, visit our stream and blog, CelticsBlog.

Ray Allen Free Agency Rumors 2012: Minnesota Timberwolves Emerge As 'Dark-Horse,' According To Report

The Minnesota Timberwolves have emerged as another suitor for free agent shooting guard Ray Allen, according to Ric Bucher of ESPN, but they might not be a huge threat.

Bucher reported on Friday that the Timberwolves are a "dark-horse team" to land Allen. "Dark, though, as in jet black," Bucher tweeted.

There's a chance that the Timberwolves are already capped out, as they agreed to terms with unrestricted free agent Brandon Roy and restricted free agent Nicolas Batum on Thursday. If the Portland Trail Blazers decide not to match the offer sheet Minnesota extended to Batum, the Timberolves will already be over the cap and will need to make a move to cut salary, not add it.

The Timberwolves might be able to add Allen in a sign-and-trade deal. The Celtics and Heat had previously been thought to be the final two suitors for Allen.

For more NBA Free Agency 2012 coverage, visit our stream and blog, CelticsBlog.

NBA Free Agency 2012: Brandon Bass Re-Signs With Boston Celtics, According To Report

The Boston Celtics and free agent Brandon Bass have reached an agreement that will keep the power forward in Boston for the next three seasons, according to a report from Steve Bulpett of the Boston Herald. The terms of the deal are not yet known.

Bass reportedly had six suitors, but chose to return to Boston, where he averaged 12.5 points and 6.2 rebounds in 31.7 minutes per game last season. When Jermaine O'Neal underwent midseason, season-ending injury, Bass stepped into the starting lineup with Kevin Garnett moving to center. The starting lineup change helped as the Celtics surged in the second half, finishing the season with the NBA's best post-All-Star break record.

Bass averaged 11.1 points and 5.3 rebounds per game in the playoffs, helping the Celtics advance to Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Finals. His best game all year came in the second round of the playoffs when he scored 27 points in Game 3 against the Philadelphia 76ers.

For more NBA Free Agency 2012 coverage, visit our stream and blog, CelticsBlog.

Ray Allen Free Agency Rumors 2012: Los Angeles Clippers Drop Out Of Allen Sweepstakes

The Los Angeles Clippers have canceled their Friday meeting with Ray Allen after reaching verbal agreements with Jamal Crawford and Chauncey Billups, the Los Angeles Times reported on Thursday.

With the Clippers dropping out of the Allen sweepstakes, the 36-year old shooting guard is expected to be down to two potential destinations: the Miami Heat and Boston Celtics.

Allen is visiting in Miami on Thursday, with the Heat's hope that they can convince him to sign for significantly less than Boston's reported standing offer of two years and $12 million. Miami will try to lure him with the prospect of competing for another title.

The Boston Herald reported Thursday that Boston is making a strong push to keep Allen despite reaching an agreement with Jason Terry earlier during the NBA free agency moratorium. The Celtics could be willing to include a no-trade clause or trade kicker in their offer that would give Allen a significant pay raise should he get dealt from the Celtics during the span of his next contract.

For more NBA Free Agency 2012 coverage, visit our stream and blog, CelticsBlog.

Ray Allen Free Agency Rumors 2012: Boston Celtics Could Include No-Trade Clause Or Trade Kicker

The Boston Celtics are "making a heavy push" to keep Ray Allen in Boston, according to a Boston Herald report on Thursday afternoon, and are considering a concession that could be just what Allen is looking for.

Steve Bulpett reports that the Celtics are willing to include a no-trade clause or trade kicker that would give Allen a significant raise if he is traded to another team. That would be huge in their recruitment of Allen, since he has had doubts about his job stability in Boston after coming close to being traded several times over the past few seasons.

The Miami Heat and Los Angeles Clippers remain as the other top contenders for Allen's services. The Heat could offer him his best chance at a title and the Clippers could likely provide a starting job.

But Boston can offer more money, and now the Celtics are moving to allay Allen's fears.

For more NBA Free Agency 2012 coverage, visit our stream and blog, CelticsBlog.

NBA Free Agency 2012: Clippers, Heat The Favorites To Land Ray Allen

Boston Celtics free agent guard Ray Allen is nearing a decision as to which team he will join for the season ahead. A Thursday report from ESPN says that two teams, the Miami Heat and the Los Angeles Clippers, are the leading candidates for his services. Both teams are also using some heavy hitters to recruit Allen.

LeBron James is trying to sway Allen's decision to come to South Beach. Allen is being wooed by Chris Paul to come to the West Coast. Celtics fans, according to the same report, should not give up hope just yet, as Allen has not ruled out re-signing with Boston.

Allen will visit Miami on Thursday. On Friday, he will travel to Los Angeles for a visit with the Clippers, who could offer more money and more prominent role with the team.

A decision could come by the end of the weekend.

For more NBA Free Agency 2012 coverage, visit our stream and blog, CelticsBlog.

Jason Terry Signing Brings Celtics Much Needed Bench Boost

Jason Terry is here, and he's here to help.

LeBron James, Dwyane Wade Hint At 'Big Day' For Miami Heat (Possibly Pertaining To Ray Allen's Visit)

NBA Free Agency Rumors 2012: Jason Terry Giving Mavericks Chance To Counter Celtics' Offer, But 'Not Optimistic' They'll Match

Free agent guard Jason Terry told Chris Tomasson of Fox Sports Tuesday that he could sign with the Boston Celtics by the end of the night.

Terry will give the Dallas Mavericks a chance to counter the three-year, $15.7 million deal that the Celtics offered him on Tuesday, but said he is "not optimistic" that he will be able to work anything out with his former team. The Mavericks are cap-conscious as they continue to pursue a second superstar to team with Dirk Nowitzki.

Terry, 34, explained the draws that have brought him to the verge of signing a contract with Boston.

"I just love that they have a championship pedigree. And I think their point guard (Rajon Rondo) is the best in the business at controlling both ends of the floor. And they've got Hall of Famers.''

For more NBA Free Agency 2012 coverage, visit our stream and blog, CelticsBlog.

NBA Free Agency 2012: Jason Terry, Celtics Reportedly Agree; Mavericks Unlikely To Match

Jason Terry and the Boston Celtics have have finalized an agreement on a three-year deal using the mid-level exception, according to a report from Marc Spears of Yahoo! Sports.

That would pay Terry approximately $15.7 million over the three years.

Free agents can't officially sign until July 11, but are free to make verbal commitments until then.

ESPN reports that Terry is likely to give the Dallas Mavericks a chance to match the contract. But even if they're given the opportunity to match it, the Mavericks are reportedly unlikely to do so because of their desire to maintain salary cap flexibility. They have been conscious of creating cap space and are still chasing free agent Deron Williams, along with a possible trade to bring in Dwight Howard of the Orlando Magic.

Terry, 34, averaged 15.1 points and 3.6 assists last season.

For more NBA Free Agency 2012 coverage, visit our stream and blog, CelticsBlog.

Jason Terry Signing: Terry Close To Joining Celtics; Ray Allen Gone?

Jason Terry is apparently very close to becoming the newest member of the Boston Celtics, according to a tweet from Marc J. Spears of Yahoo! Sports, who reports that sources of Y! Sports have said that Terry and the Celtics are in the final stages of a contract agreement. Terry, a veteran free agent guard, was linked to the Celtics in free agency.

Celtics are in final discussions on terms of a multi-year deal with Mavericks free agent guard Jason Terry, sources tells Yahoo! Sports.

— Marc J. Spears (@SpearsNBAYahoo) July 3, 2012

Terry, who was 34 last season, averaged 17.1 points in 63 games -- only one of which he started. A bench specialist, Terry would bring a lot to a team like the Celtics, in need of all the scoring help they can get.

Of course, Terry is a shooting guard. So is Ray Allen. What all does that mean?

First, the reported signing of Terry could mean the end of the Allen era in Boston. However, the signing of Terry doesn't necessarily signal the end of Allen's tenure with the Celtics, as the team could bring Ray Ray back thanks to bird rights and give Terry a mid-level exception deal. Celtics coach Doc Rivers has made it clear that he would like to sign both.

No terms have been released on the Terry signing, which will make the picture clearer.

For more NBA Free Agency 2012 coverage, visit our stream and blog, CelticsBlog.

NBA Free Agency Rumors 2012: Jason Terry, Boston Celtics Finalizing Deal, According To Report

The Boston Celtics and Jason Terry are engaged in the final stages of discussion to bring the 34-year old guard to Boston, according to a report from Marc Spears of Yahoo! Sports.

The deal does not necessarily preclude the Celtics from acquiring Ray Allen, but he might be turned off by the prospect of competing for playing time with both Terry and Avery Bradley.

Terms of Terry's deal have not been disclosed, which makes sense because nothing is final, but it is probable that he will sign for the mid-level exception. Danny Ainge said earlier this week that he expects the Celtics to be able to stay under the luxury tax threshold and have the full mid-level exception to spend.

Terry averaged 15.1 points and 3.6 assists per game last season for the Dallas Mavericks, connecting on 37.8 percent of his 3-point attempts. The Celtics have long been desperate for bench scoring, and Terry's one of the best in the NBA at filling that particular role.

For more NBA Free Agency 2012 coverage, visit our stream and blog, CelticsBlog.

2012 NBA Draft Picks Jared Sullinger, Fab Melo, Kris Joseph Sign With Boston Celtics

The Boston Celtics announced on Tuesday that they have agreed to terms with their three draft picks, Jared Sullinger of Ohio State, Fab Melo of Syracuse and Kris Joseph of Syracuse.

The terms of the deals were not disclosed, per team policy.

Sullinger, a 6-foot-9 power forward, was the 21st pick after averaging 17.5 points and 9,2 rebounds during the past season at Ohio State, where he led the Buckeyes to the Final Four. He is the second two-time First Team AP All-American the Celtics have ever drafted. The first was Larry Bird.

Melo, a 7-foot center, and Joseph, a 6-foot-8 wing, were teammates at Syracuse. Melo was named the Big East Defensive Player of the Year after averaging 7.8 points, 5.8 rebounds and 2.9 blocks per game. Joseph led the team in scoring at 13.4 points per game, adding 4.7 rebounds and 1.4 steals.

For more NBA Free Agency 2012 coverage, visit our stream and blog, CelticsBlog.

Ray Allen Rumors 2012: Allen To Visit Heat, Clippers To Hear Pitches

The Boston Celtics have put together a solid effort to resign veteran shooting guard Ray Allen, the campaign however will need to go through a bit of a waiting period as NBA.com's David Aldridge is reporting Allen will make visits to the Miami Heat and Los Angeles Clippers, respectively.

According to Aldridge, Allen will visit Miami on Thursday and the Clippers on Friday to hear both franchise's pitches that could entice him to move away from Boston. Allen also held conference calls with the Memphis Grizzles and Minnesota Timberwolves, but hasn't scheduled visits.

The biggest issue, says Aldridge, is money:

The Heat can only offer Allen their mini mid-level exception that starts at $3.09 million next season, the same exception Miami used last year to sign free-agent forward Shane Battier. The Clippers have their full mid-level available at $5 million. Boston has offered Allen a two-year deal for $12 million.

Both the Heat and Clippers are expected to also offer a starting job for Allen, who last season was pushed to the bench by the Celtics -- something that didn't sit well with the 36-year-old.

For more NBA Free Agency 2012 coverage, visit our stream and blog, CelticsBlog.

Jeff Green Free Agency Rumors 2012: Boston Celtics Want Green Back

Danny Ainge and the Boston Celtics would like to bring back free agent forward Jeff Green, who the team re-signed at the start of this past season but was forced to miss the entire season after doctors discovered that he had an aortic aneurysm. Green is expected to be ready for the 2012-13 season, and Ainge hopes he will be wearing green.

"We intend to have Jeff back," said Ainge after introducing Boston's three rookies during a community event at the Jackson Mann/Horace Mann Education Complex. "Nothing is done, but we intend to have him back. I think we're going to enter a contract with him, hopefully by the end of the moratorium." (via ESPN Boston)

Green has averaged 13.9 points and 5.5 rebounds in his career and averaged 13.3 points and 4.8 rebounds while shooting 44.9 percent from the field in the 2010-11 campaign.

For more NBA Free Agency 2012 coverage, visit our stream and blog, CelticsBlog.

Boston Celtics Free Agency Rumors 2012: Chris Wilcox Cleared For Full-Court Contact After Heart Surgery

Free agent forward Chris Wilcox has been cleared for full-court contact after undergoing season-ending heart surgery, his agent told NBA.com's David Aldridge on Monday. It's the first step toward Wilcox returning to an NBA court in 2012.

The Boston Celtics will consider re-signing Wilcox, Danny Ainge said during a press conference to introduce the team's rookies on Monday. The 6-foot-10 big man averaged 5.4 points on 59 percent shooting to go along with 4.4 rebounds for the Celtics last season before doctors found an enlarged aorta which required surgery at the end of March. That ended his season.

After re-signing Kevin Garnett and drafting Jared Sullinger and Fab Melo, the Celtics are considerably less desperate to sign big men than they were at the beginning of the NBA offseason. They also have to make a decision on Greg Stiemsma, a restricted free agent.

For more on the Celtics, please be sure to visit our site CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.

Celtics Free Agency 2012: Ray Allen, Jeff Green Update

The Boston Celtics aren't just standing around and waiting for something to fall their way in this 2012 NBA free agency period.

General manager Danny Ainge has been aggressive even after locking up Kevin Garnett. It looked as though Ray Allen was all but out the door a week ago, but now it seems he may stay a while, according to SI.com.

The Miami Heat are well-documented pursuers of Allen, but are only able to offer three years and $9 million, while the Celtics can pony up with a two-year, $12 million contract. Nothing is a sure thing, but Boston would seem to have a clear advantage in that race.

Jeff Green is coming off of open-heart surgery that forced him to miss all of last season and perhaps jeopardize his future. However, Boston looks like they may bring him back.

Green is still just 25-years-old and could be a nice piece for the future. Don't expect a deal just yet though with more pressing matters like Allen going on. Green might have to wait his turn in the free agency process, but all signs point to a deal thus far for the two parties.

For more on the Celtics, please be sure to visit our site CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.

NBA Free Agency 2012: Celtics Willing To Double Heat's Offer For Ray Allen, According To Sources

The 2012 NBA free agency period began early Sunday morning, and already things are getting very serious when it comes to free agent Ray Allen. According to ESPN's Chris Broussard, the Boston Celtics and Miami Heat are in a head-to-head battle for Allen, and the Celtics are willing to pay a lot of money to keep the veteran three-point shooter.

Source: Celtics willing to double (in terms of $) Heat offer to Ray Allen. Will give 2 years/$12 million. Heat can offer only $3 mill a yr

— Chris Broussard (@Chris_Broussard) July 1, 2012

This news isn't too surprising considering center Kevin Garnett said he was going to not retire and re-up with Boston. This means, according to SB Nation Boston's Gethin Coolbaugh, the Celtics front office will not begin a rebuilding process this offseason; instead, they will retool.

Offering Allen double the amount of money than the Heat, who has made Allen their top priority during free agency, is a good indication Boston wants to make another run at an NBA title with the Big 3 in '12-13.

For more NBA Free Agency 2012 coverage, visit our stream and blog, CelticsBlog.

Kevin Garnett's Return Signals Boston Celtics Will Retool, Not Rebuild

Kevin Garnett is reportedly coming back for three more years with the Boston Celtics, signaling that Danny Ainge and company are not giving up on the goal of the Big Three era producing an 18th championship.

NBA Free Agency 2012: Celtics Pursuing Jason Terry, Interested In Nick Young; C's Reach Out To OJ Mayo, Jamal Crawford

Basketball news never stops, especially when I'm about to go to bed and see a link from Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo! Sports about five seconds before I was about to shut my computer and go to bed, but I digress. (Note: I don't hate Woj. I love Woj. Woj for prez!)

Anyway, Woj's story included some good information, per usual. Of note, the Boston Celtics are pursuing Jason Terry, a free agent guard formerly of the Dallas Mavericks (the one with the Larry O'Brien trophy tattooed onto his arm), as a potential replacement for Ray Allen, who is anticipated to relocate (the Miami Heat are the front runners, according to reports). Terry, a three-point specialist, is a 13-year veteran who has played for two teams: the Mavs and Atlanta Hawks. Last season, Terry averaged 15.1 points in 63 game (62 off the bench) and made 138 treys. For his career, Terry has buried 1,788 threes.

Woj also reports that the Celtics are also interested in Nick Young, the free agent guard who was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers this past season after spending the first four and a half seasons with the Washington Wizards. Young averaged 14.2 points last year.

Last but not least, Gary Washburn of The Boston Globe reported early Sunday morning that the Celtics have reached out to the representatives of free agent guards O.J. Mayo and Jamal Crawford, and both have been tied to Boston via trade or free agency rumors.

Did you get all that? Good. Now, if you excuse me, some of us need some sleep.

For more NBA Free Agency 2012 coverage, visit our stream and blog, CelticsBlog.

NBA Free Agency 2012: Boston Celtics In Search Of Tweaks To Reload

Kevin Garnett will return, but the futures of Ray Allen, Brandon Bass, Greg Stiemsma, Keyon Dooling, Mickael Pietrus, Marquis Daniels, Jeff Green, Ryan Hollins and Sasha Pavlovic are uncertain as NBA free agency begins on Sunday.

Celtics Free Agents 2012: Boston Has Work To Do

With the 2012 NBA free agency period almost upon us, each team has some work to do when ti comes to re-signing some of their own.

In the case of the Boston Celtics, they have an incredible amount with almost the entire team up for a new contract.

Here's the list of Boston's free agents:

Restricted:

Greg Stiemsma

Unrestricted:

Ray Allen

Brandon Bass

Keyon Dooling

Marquis Daniels

Jeff Green

Ryan Hollins

Sasha Pavlovic

Mickael Pietrus

While Paul Pierce, Rajon Rondo and Kevin Garnett are back, the rest of the team is very much in a state of flux. Garnett of course is back for another three years after agreeing to a new deal on Saturday to the tune of $32 million.

General manager Danny Ainge will have to pick and choose who he wants to return after almost reaching the NBA Finals. Some are no-brainers one way or the other, and yet so many are cases of money versus reward.

For more on the Celtics, please be sure to check out our site CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.

NBA Free Agency Rumors 2012: Ray Allen Is Miami Heat's 'Prime Offseason Target,' According To Report

The Miami Heat have made free agent shooting guard Ray Allen their "prime offseason target," Brian Windhorst of ESPN reports.

The Heat will only have the $3 million mini mid-level exception to offer Allen, but also have other pulls, like the chance to play alongside LeBron James and contend for titles every season.

Miami likely can't offer Allen as much playing time as many other teams, considering that Dwyane Wade plays the same position. But Windhorst reports that head coach Erik Spoelstra is likely to play James at power forward more often in the future, likely opening up more time for Allen should he sign there.

The Boston Celtics can offer Allen significantly more money than the Heat, since they have his Bird rights and can go over the salary cap to re-sign him. But the 36-year old has stated that stability is one of his top priorities in finding his next team, and Danny Ainge has included Allen in trade discussions several times over the past few years.

For more on the Celtics, head over to CelticsBlog and check out SB Nation Boston.

Kevin Garnett Signs 3-Year Deal With Boston Celtics, According To Report

The Boston Celtics and Kevin Garnett have agreed to a three-year contract worth $34 million, according to a report from Marc Spears of Yahoo! Sports.

Garnett had been considering retirement, but decided to return to the Celtics rather than end his Hall of Fame career.

The big man averaged 15.8 points and 8.2 rebounds last season in 31.1 minutes per game. He was dominant going forward from the All-Star break, including a postseason run during which he registered 19.2 points and 10.3 rebounds per game while providing his normal suffocating defensive presence.

Garnett will turn 39 years old before the end of his contract, but played at a high level last season and is known for staying in fantastic shape.

The news of Garnett's return was first reported by Steve Bulpett of the Boston Herald.

With Garnett in tow, the Celtics are likely to attempt another shot at a title run rather than start a rebuilding process.

For more on the Celtics, head over to CelticsBlog and check out SB Nation Boston.

Kevin Garnett Not Retiring: Star Returning To Boston Celtics For At Least Two Seasons, According To Report

Kevin Garnett has decided not to retire and will return to the Boston Celtics with a new contract that will last at least two seasons, the Boston Herald reported on Saturday.

Garnett and the Celtics still haven't finalized his new deal, according to Steve Bulpett of the Herald, but are in the process of completing a deal that will be at least two years and might include a third.

"The decision came down to whether KG wanted to keep playing," said one source. "And once he decided that he did, it was going to be Boston. He wasn't going to leave Doc (River) and those guys and play anywhere else."

"Kevin was absolutely great this season, and he just wants to keep going," said a source. "And when you look at how he was playing, there's no reason for him to stop."

For more on the Celtics, head over to CelticsBlog and check out SB Nation Boston.

NBA Free Agency Rumors 2012: Jeff Green Has 'Great Environment' With Boston Celtics, Says Agent

Jeff Green's agent, David Falk, said that the Boston Celtics will have interest in his client and could possibly even be in line for a little bit of a hometown discount.

Falk told the Boston Herald that Boston is "a great environment" for Green, adding that he and Danny Ainge have a great relationship which could help Green land in Boston.

"I have to do my job, and part of my job is listening to offers," Falk said. "But unlike almost everyone else in the business, I don't worry about what number the guys get drafted; I worry about being in the right environment. I think Jeff in Boston's a great environment for him. We just have to work out the business side.

"You know, in my 38 years in this business, I've written an owner a letter twice to commend him on the job of a general manager. One time was in Utah with Kevin O'Connor (who handled a situation with Jeff Malone differently after there had been some friction) and the second time was with Danny.

"I thought the way Danny managed Jeff's injury situation was beyond professional. It was special to me, and I went out of my way to let Wyc (Grousbeck) know how much I appreciated it. I'm a person who puts a lot of stock in goodwill, so to me Danny Ainge has earned a lot of goodwill. It doesn't mean we're going to do it for free, but I really feel good about the situation."

For more on the Celtics, head over to CelticsBlog and check out SB Nation Boston.

Celtics Offseason 2012: Greg Stiemsma Given Qualifying Offer By Boston

The Boston Celtics have made a qualifying offer to center Greg Stiemsma, reportedly worth north of $1 million, which will make him a restricted free agent (via Boston Herald).

Stiemsma appeared in 55 games for the Celtics last season (3 starts) and averaged 2.9 points, 3.2 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game in 13.9 minutes per game. He also made 19 postseason appearances for Boston but only played 7.5 minutes per game. Plantar fasciitis in his left foot slowed him down at the end of the season.

The Celtics did add some depth at the center position in the 2012 NBA Draft when they picked Fab Melo from Syracuse. The C's were also busy signing players on Friday to fill the roster for their summer league team. The summer league will begin next weekend in Orlando and Las Vegas.

For more on the Celtics, head over to CelticsBlog and check out SB Nation Boston.

2012 NBA Free Agency Rumors: O.J. Mayo, Now Unrestricted Free Agent, Could Interest Boston Celtics

The Memphis Grizzlies surprisingly decided not to extend a qualifying offer to O.J. Mayo, making the shooting guard an unrestricted free agent when the free agency period arrives on July 1.

The Boston Celtics have been rumored to have interest in acquiring Mayo via trade, and would naturally be interested in landing him as a free agent. But there are a few barriers to their pursuit.

The possibility exists for the Celtics to open more than $20 million in cap space, but for now -- with the Celtics retaining Bird rights on Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen, among others -- they have cap holds that render their potential cap space essentially useless.

If Garnett retires, Allen moves on to another team or Danny Ainge decides to throw a curveball and renounce the rights to some free agents, the Celtics could open some room underneath the cap.

But as their situation stands now, their ability to sign free agents is limited to the mid-level exception and minimum contracts. Since Mayo is expected to command a larger deal, the Celtics would almost certainly have to do some maneuvering in their quest to obtain him.

Exploring a sign-and-trade deal to land Mayo is still a possibility, even if nothing changes regarding Boston's cap space. Reports have conflicted about whether the Celtics are interested in including Brandon Bass in a sign-and-trade for Mayo.

For more on the Celtics, head over to CelticsBlog and check out SB Nation Boston.

2012 NBA Trade Rumors: Celtics Interested In O.J. Mayo For Brandon Bass To Grizzlies

The Boston Celtics are willing to give up Brandon Bass to the Memphis Grizzlies in exchange for 6'5 guard O.J. Mayo, sources tell A. Sherrod Blakely of the CSN New England. The Celtics were reportedly interested in acquiring Mayo before the March trade deadline, but couldn't make a deal happen.

A deal isn't imminent, and Bass, who is set to become an unrestricted free agent, would have to agree to a sign and trade. Bass has said that would prefer to return to Boston, but he would need a significant bump in salary from the $4.25 million he made last season.

Mayo would give the Celtics some much-needed athleticism at guard, complementing Rajon Rondo. He would also allow the Celtics to move their focus to acquiring a big man in the 2012 NBA Draft. Mayo averaged 12.6 points in 26.8 minutes per game last season.

For more on the Celtics, head over to CelticsBlog and check out SB Nation Boston.

Ray Allen Free Agency Rumors 2012: Suns Will Pursue Celtics Guard, According To Report

The Phoenix Suns will pursue Boston Celtics guard Ray Allen in free agency, sources tell Yahoo! Sports. Allen has reportedly shown interest in the Suns, with or without point guard Steve Nash. Phoenix is expected to have a lot of room under the salary cap, and could off more money than Allen's two most talked-about suitors, the Miami Heat and the New York Knicks.

Allen also has a direct connection with the Suns. President Lon Babby used to be Allen's agent before he began running basketball operations for Phoenix.

The Heat have been reported as Allen's most likely destination recently. Sources told Yahoo! Sports that while there is mutual interest, the Heat do not currently lead for Allen's services. The 37-year-old sharshooter is still very much interested in re-joining the Celtics, and Boston will no doubt be in contact with him and free agent Kevin Garnett.

For more on Allen and the Celtics, check out CelticsBlog and stay tuned to SB Nation Boston.

2012 NBA Trade Rumors: Josh Smith Drawing Interest From Boston Celtics, According To Report

The Boston Celtics are interested in acquiring Atlanta Hawks forward Josh Smith, Marc Stein of ESPN reported on Thursday.

Stein reports that the Celtics are joined by the Orlando Magic, Houston Rockets and Los Angeles Lakers as teams that have expressed interest in dealing for the 6-foot-9 Smith.

According to Stein, Danny Ferry, who was recently hired as Atlanta's general manager, isn't ready to trade Smith away immediately before having more time to ponder the situation.

Smith, 26, will be paid $13.2 million for the 2012-13 season in the final year of his contract. The jack-of-all-trades, who is good friends with Rajon Rondo, averaged 18.8 points, 9.6 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 1.7 blocks and 1.4 steals with Atlanta last season. He is viewed as one of the best two-way talents in the NBA, but is also known for questionable decision-making.

For more on the Celtics, please be sure to check out our site CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.

Celtics Offseason 2012: Ray Allen Likely To Join Heat

After coming so close to another NBA Finals appearance with the Boston Celtics, it appears Ray Allen might be moving on.

Allen is about to become an unrestricted free agent in a few days, and much of the buzz is that Allen will join the Miami Heat when July 1 becomes the present day on the calendar.

It comes as no surprise considering the Heat are in need of a shooter from the outside to compliment LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh. Despite an incredible Game 5 performance in the Finals, Mike Miller is a shell of his former self, leaving space for a sharpshooter on the Miami roster.

Boston might be ready to retool, considering the collective age of Allen, Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett. While the Celtics fought admirably against the Heat and almost defeated them, the reality is a window that has probably closed on this group.

It doesn't make much financial or basketball sense for General Manager Danny Ainge to re-sign Allen at this point. While he served his purpose and helped restore glory for Boston, it's most likely in both parties best interest to move on.

For more on the Celtics, please be sure to check out our site CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.

Celtics Offseason 2012: Kevin Garnett Still Undecided On Potential Return, Says Danny Ainge

Kevin Garnett has not made a decision regarding his future with the Boston Celtics, or the NBA in general, the team's President of Basketball Operations, Danny Ainge, told reporters on Wednesday morning at the practice facility in Waltham, MA. Ainge said that he has had conversations with Garnett, but has nothing new to say regarding the topic.

Ainge on KG: "No news to report. We're having conversations with KG but nothing yet. Sooner we could get KG done the better for us."

- Boston Celtics (@celtics) June 27, 2012

Ainge also said that he believes Garnett will either return to the Celtics or retire, instead of looking elsewhere on the free agent market. Garnett is an unrestricted free agent, meaning he could sign wherever he wants. Garnett is coming off of a tremendous season with the Celtics, specifically in the second half, and he averaged 15.8 points and 8.2 rebounds during the regular-season while averaging 19.2 points during Boston's lengthy postseason run.

For more Boston Celtics Offseason 2012 coverage, follow along with our StoryStream.

Celtics Get Extra Second Rounder For Jeff Green, But Is There More To It?

Orlando & Las Vegas Summer League 2012: Boston Celtics Release Schedules

Ray Allen Free Agency Rumors 2012: Allen, Miami Heat Have 'Mutual Interest,' According To Report

Free agent shooting guard Ray Allen and the Miami Heat have mutual interest, according to a report from Brian Windhorst of ESPN.

Allen hasn't ruled out a return to the Boston Celtics, but several reports have noted that he seems to have one foot out the door.

As Windhorst points out, the Heat won't have as much money to offer Allen as other teams. The most they can offer him is the mini mid-level exception, which begins at $3 million per season. Playing for the Heat would also require Allen to come off the bench, which he was reportedly upset to do during his final season in Boston, because it's impossible to imagine a non-injury scenario in which Allen starts ahead of Dwyane Wade.

But the Heat are the clear favorites to repeat as Eastern Conference champions next season and return to the NBA Finals to defend their crown. If Allen wants to remain a valuable component of a contender, Miami is an intriguing option. Plus, Allen would benefit from double-teams on Wade and LeBron James -- think about the NBA's most prolific three-point shooter ever shooting all those open jumpers Shane Battier and Mike Miller drained in the Finals.

For more Celtics Offseason 2012 coverage, visit our stream and blog, CelticsBlog.

Boston Celtics Have Ninth Best Odds To Win NBA Championship In 2012-13

Kevin Garnett, Rajon Rondo Make List Of Top NBA Jersey Sales Internationally

Boston Celtics' Trainer Ed Lacerte Named NBA's Trainer Of The Year

2012 NBA Draft: Celtics Linked To Tony Wroten and Arnett Moultrie

In the latest edition of SB Nation's 2012 NBA Mock Draft by Tom Ziller, the Boston Celtics pick up a pair of talented players in Tony Wroten and Arnett Moultrie with the 21st and 22nd picks in the first round.

Wroten is a guard out of the University of Washington who has a ton of upside. The youngster is a good passer who can get in the lane and subsequently to the line. However, he's not a very accurate free-throw shooter and doesn't have any touch from the outside, a la Rajon Rondo. Wroten is a very raw player who might take a few years to develop.

Moultrie would be a steal if he fell all the way to Boston. The Mississippi State forward is a powerful big man at 6-foot-11 but just 233 pounds. When he fills his frame out, Moultrie might be a dominant presence with his balance and quickness. While he's a good rebounder, he also needs to improve on shooting from the line.

Overall though, this would be a great haul for Doc Rivers and the Celtics.

For more on the Celtics, please be sure to visit Celtics Blog and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.

Boston Celtics Offseason 2012: Kevin Garnett Will Return, Says Flip Saunders

Rest assured, Celtics Nation. Kevin Garnett will be coming back, at least, that's what Flip Saunders said in the Minneapolis Star Tribune. Saunders, who coached Garnett in his Minnesota Timberwolves days and served as an advisor to the Boston Celtics during this year's postseason run, said as much in his newspaper interview with Sid Hartman.

Saunders is positive Garnett, who is a free agent, will sign for another year with the Celtics, who have some rebuilding to do. (via StarTribune.com)

Well, that settles it then. Saunders was only around the Celtics for a short period of time, but he and Garnett do go back quite a ways. Now, even if all of that is true, Danny Ainge and the Celtics would still have to offer him a contract, which is not a guarantee. It all depends what direction Ainge wants to take the team, although Garnett did prove his worth with his tremendous second half performance and his vintage output in the playoffs.

For more Celtics Offseason 2012 coverage, visit our stream and blog, CelticsBlog.

NBA Free Agency Rumors 2012: Boston Celtics Reportedly Considering 'Strong Offer' To Omer Asik

The Boston Celtics are contemplating "a strong offer" to Chicago Bulls restricted free agent Omer Asik, reports Sam Smith of Bulls.com.

Smith reports that the Houston Rockets might also show interest in Asik. Other teams that have been linked to the 7-foot-0, 255-pound center include the Golden St. Warriors and Cleveland Cavaliers.

Asik averaged 3.1 points and 5.3 rebounds in just 14.7 minutes per game last season in the crowded Chicago frontcourt. He's known as a defensive presence who crashes the boards and could potentially blossom in a greater role.

With Joakim Noah, Carlos Boozer and Taj Gibson already on board, it's unclear how much the Bulls are willing to spend to retain Asik.

The Celtics, who have just four players under contract for the 2012-13 season, are in need of a big man. But because of Asik's status as a restricted free agent, they might have to overpay to acquire him.

For more Celtics Offseason 2012 coverage, visit our stream and blog, CelticsBlog.

Mickael Pietrus Injury: Celtics Swingman Undergoes Knee Surgery

According to Gary Washburn and Frank Dell'Apa of the Boston Globe, Mickael Pietrus underwent surgery following the Celtics Playoff run, to repair damage in his right knee.

Mickael Pietrus is hoping that another operation on the right knee that was surgically repaired less than a year ago can help his agility after a painful season with the Celtics. Pietrus, an unrestricted free agent, underwent surgery Wednesday and will be sidelined about six weeks, according to agent Bill McCandless.

"I don't see how he played with what was in his knee,'' McCandless said. "There was a lot of fragmentation floating around, including a couple of pieces the doctor said would really create discomfort.''

The 29-year-old veteran had a rough season for the Celtics, recording a PER of 8.5 – well below the league average of 1.50 – but was dealing with both, the knee injury, and a scary head injury, which caused him to be taken off the court in a stretcher.

For more Celtics Offseason 2012 coverage, visit our stream and blog, CelticsBlog.

NBA Draft Rumors 2012: Boston Celtics Looking To Trade Up, Maybe For Harrison Barnes

The Boston Celtics are looking to package their two first-round picks in the 2012 NBA Draft together to move up to a higher selection, reports Alex Kennedy of HoopsWorld.

If the Celtics cannot find a deal they like to move up, reports Kennedy, they are likely to deal one of the picks in a separate maneuver. According to Kennedy, they don't want to bring in two rookie first-round picks.

The Boston Globe's Bob Ryan told CSNNE that the Celtics are interested in moving up to select Harrison Barnes. Barnes is expected to go in the top five of the draft, so it's unlikely a package consisting solely of Boston's first-rounders would be enough to land the UNC product.

The Celtics are entering a summer of uncertainty, and Danny Ainge will have numerous important decisions to make as his franchise transitions from the Big Three era.

For more Celtics Offseason 2012 coverage, visit our stream and blog, CelticsBlog.

Avery Bradley Injury Update: Boston Celtics Guard Reportedly Needs Second Shoulder Surgery 'Shortly'

Boston Celtics guard Avery Bradley will need a second shoulder surgery and the operation will come "shortly," according to the Boston Herald.

The 21-year old had surgery to repair his left shoulder on May 30 and is in the recovery stages, but Mark Murphy of the Herald reports Bradley will also require an additional surgery to repair his right shoulder in the near future.

The left shoulder was the one that popped out four times during the latter stages of the season, including three times in the playoffs that prompted Bradley to undergo season-ending surgery before the Celtics' postseason run concluded. The right shoulder isn't as badly damaged, but began to be a problem as a result of Bradley favoring one arm over the other.

The operations were staggered purposely so Bradley could regain some motion in his left shoulder before undergoing surgery on his right.

The Celtics are hoping Bradley returns for training camp.

For more Celtics Offseason 2012 coverage, visit our stream and blog, CelticsBlog.

Boston Celtics Free Agency Rumors 2012: Owner Wyc Grousbeck Says 'The Picture Is Not In Place For Next Year Yet'

Not even Boston Celtics owner Wyc Grousbeck knows where his team is headed this summer.

Grousbeck told WEEI's Mut and Merloni on Friday what the NBA world figured: The Celtics are entering the offseason with a number of ideas, but no set direction.

The Celtics have just four players currently under contract for next season. Kevin Garnett is contemplating retirement, and his decision on that front could be the first domino of many to fall in Boston this summer.

Via WEEI:

"I think it's fair to say when you look at the roster and you see who is under contract for next year starting with [Rajon] Rondo and [Paul] Pierce, and then you see who isn't under contract -- obviously a number of very good players are coming off deals with us including all the way to Brandon Bass and [Mickael] Pietrus and other people opting out or being free agents -- the picture is not in place for next year yet," said Grousbeck. "There are free agents available this summer as well from other teams, and there are a bunch of free agents available next summer from other teams, potentially.

"We can let this play out. We want to stay competitive. We want to stay contenders if we possibly can, but we really want to get banner 18, and sometimes you need a lot of luck to get a banner, I can tell you that. But we will see how this plays out over the next couple of years."

For more Celtics Offseason 2012 coverage, visit our stream and blog, CelticsBlog.

Boston Celtics Free Agency Rumors 2012: Sonny Weems Drawing Interest From Boston Celtics

The Boston Celtics have interest in restricted free agent Sonny Weems, Hoopsworld's Alex Kennedy reported on Thursday night.

Kennedy reports that the Detroit Pistons, Cleveland Cavaliers and Los Angeles Clippers are also intrigued by the 25-year old high-flyer.

Weems played in Lithuania this past season largely because of the NBA lockout, but was forced to leave his team after suffering a bad ankle sprain which needed more treatment than he could find in Lithuania. During his last NBA season in 2010-11 with the Toronto Raptors, the 6-foot-6 wing averaged 9.2 points and 2.6 rebounds while starting 28 of his 59 games played.

The Celtics face an uncertain summer as they enter the offseason with just four players under contract for the 2012-13 season. The one certainty seems to be that the transition into becoming Rajon Rondo's team will continue. Weems would fit the mold of athletic players equipped to run with Boston's star point guard.

For more Celtics Offseason 2012 coverage, visit our stream and blog, CelticsBlog.

NBA Free Agency 2012: Ryan Hollins Wants To Return To Boston Celtics

Free agent center Ryan Hollins said he would like to return to the Boston Celtics if given the chance, according to a CSNNE.com report on Friday.

"Of course," he told CSNNE.com. "I would love to be here next season."

"[They pushed me] incredibly hard," he said. "It's not just being hard and yelling -- it's by example. The small things, talking here and there, it's rubbed off."

He added, "[I'm] dedicated. I've always taken my job seriously and loved the game, but the dedication (on the Celtics), eat sleep drink basketball, every day, every day, every day."

Hollins was cut by the Cleveland Cavaliers at midseason, but became part of the Celtics' postseason rotation after landing in Boston, averaging 1.5 points and 1.6 rebounds during the playoffs. He is an athletic, active seven-footer who still has a considerable amount of untapped potential, even as a 27-year old with six years of NBA experience.

He has a considerable amount of trouble rebounding the basketball and doesn't have much of a refined offensive game, but provides a real presence as a pick-and-roll defender.

For more Celtics Offseason 2012 coverage, visit our stream and blog, CelticsBlog.

Boston Celtics Free Agency 2012: Brandon Bass Plans To Opt Out And Test Free Agency, Says Agent

Boston Celtics forward Brandon Bass will opt out of his player option for the 2012-13 season and test free agency, his agent told CSNNE.com on Thursday.

The decision was seen as a given because Bass' value is viewed as considerably greater than the $4.25 million he would have made next season had he opted into the last year of his deal.

Despite opting out, Bass would still like to return to the Celtics next season under a different contract.

"Oh absolutely," his agent Tony Dutt said when asked if Boston was his client's first choice. "Without question, he would love to go back."

Bass proved himself as a valuable contributor during his lone season in Boston, averaging 12.5 points and 6.2 rebounds, but the Celtics are staring at an uncertain future and its unclear which direction general manager Danny Ainge will head.

"I'm no different than anyone else," Bass told CSNNE.com recently. "I'm going to do what's best for me and my family. Hopefully that'll keep me here in Boston. We'll see."

For more Celtics Offseason 2012 coverage, visit our stream and blog, CelticsBlog.

Ray Allen Free Agency Rumors 2012: Miami Heat, Los Angeles Clippers Reportedly Top Allen's List If He Leaves Boston Celtics

Should Ray Allen leave the Boston Celtics this summer, the Los Angeles Clippers and Miami Heat are reportedly likely to be near the top of his list.

Boston Celtics Offseason 2012: Greg Stiemsma Wants To Return Next Season

Thank You, Celtics. Thank You, Fans

What's Next, Boston Celtics? Big Three Era Finally Comes To An End (Or Maybe Not)

The Big Three Era is over. Or, maybe not.