Neither side wanted things to go this way, but James Posey and the Celtics parted company.
Posey got from New Orleans the four years at the full mid-level exception he was seeking, and while the Celts upped their offer from two years to three, they were unwilling to go any further. Posey averaged 7.4 points and 4.4 rebounds in 24.6 minutes during the regular season and dropped slightly to 6.7 points and 3.6 rebounds in 22.0 minutes in the playoffs.
But his contributions were more significant than the numbers would suggest. Posey was generally on the floor in crunch time.
"We were fortunate to have him this year," said Danny Ainge. "He was a big part of our championship season. James was great for us, and that helped him get this offer. I just think both sides had to do what was in their best interest, and this is the way it worked out. We wish James well.
"We think we made him a good offer, but he opted for more security. He was just doing what he thought was best for him. We understand that."
Posey said staying in Boston was his first choice, and his agent, Mark Bartelstein, expanded on that feeling.
"I think this was a very difficult process, to say the least," Bartelstein said. "It was exhausting, but that's what free agency is these days.
"James' feelings toward Boston could not be more positive. The fans couldn't have been better. His teammates couldn't have been better. It's the most fun he's ever had in his career. Doc (Rivers) was great, and so was Danny (Ainge). But this was a time in James' career that he had to make a business decision. He had to take a deep breath when I told him he'd have to make a decision. When it came time to take the New Orleans offer and leave Boston, I think that was the hardest thing he's had to do in basketball because of the way he felt about the Celtics' organization."
Copyright (C) 2008 The Sports Xchange. All Rights Reserved.
I just read that Pierce was briefly handcuffed, but not arrested, early this morning in Vegas. It was a simple traffic stop, and the police essentially said it was no big deal -- Vegas Police seem to cuff anyone who is outwardly angered by a traffic stop.
It would be really sad if Pierce made himself a burden to the Celtic
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Really? Is he kidding. He's not even the best player on his own team. I don't like Pierce or Kobe, so I can fairly say that PP can't hold Kobes nutsack. In fact, lets start a little list of players that you feel are better that this doucher.
I keep hearing how the Lakers are better for the future so I ask myself How. When Pierce Retires Kobe won't be far away as both players are only 1yr apart.Kobe being 30 and Pierce being 31.
So I looked at the current rosters and lets see who does have better Future what will the lakers look like with a team of 25 yrs old and
Ok ok ok so u FINALLY got a ring in a decade so what.. How long is this so called dynasty gonna last!? Well, improve your team now, as u can be the Celtics and improve the team by drafting players that were on teams that didnt make the playoffs! Yes, with the all new Baller Maniacs league! Join now, risk free, quick and easy! Just register
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Somebody give me an honest opinion. Is James Posey as big of a loss like everyone wants to think? Can Corey Maggette give us a huge upgrade at offense and very solid defense? When Corey is motivated he is strong on the defensive end.
