Every morning, we compile the links of the day and dump them here... highlighting the big storyline. Because there's nothing quite as satisfying as a good morning dump.
With most of the higher-priced shooters off the free agent board, CSNNE.com has learned that the Celtics have had some conversations about one of the best still available, Jarvis Hayes.
In seven seasons, Hayes has a career average of 8.3 points per game with his average never dipping below 6.7 points per game, but never rising above 10.2.
And last season with the Nets, Hayes averaged 7.8 points per game while shooting 42.1 percent from the field which was slightly above his 41.5 percent career shooting average.
While Hayes remains an option, the C's have a few other small forwards rated a bit higher on their wish list.
Although he remains a long shot, the Celtics are reportedly still in the mix for Matt Barnes after a sign-and-trade with Toronto and Orlando fell through. Boston has also expressed interest in Rasual Butler, Larry Hughes and Antoine Wright, in addition to looking into a number of potential trade options involving Rasheed Wallace who is expected to retire prior to the start of the 2010-2011 season.
Think of Hayes as a replacement for Michael Finley.
On Page 2, Chris Forsberg throws cold water on the Shane Battier speculation.
Meanwhile, (GM Daryl) Morey acknowledged that with the addition of Miller, the Rockets will rank somewhere near the top five teams in the NBA in payroll. In fact, unless they reduce the payroll during the season through a trade, the Rockets will be in the luxury tax this season. Morey said owner Les Alexander is willing to take that plunge with the current roster."With a lot of key guys like Yao Ming and Shane Battier [at the end of contracts] and the lockout [looming] next year, we’re trying to make this is a special year and go as far in the playoffs as we can," said Morey.
So much for that. Thanks Chris, thanks a lot.
The rest of the links:Celtics Hub - New Zealand national team wants Perk? | CBS - Chris Paul wants out of New Orleans? | Yahoo! - Team USA roster shrinks | SI.com - Sneak peek at East contenders | Big 3 make 50 highest earning athletes list |
