Payton Expects Trade To Minnesota Or Sacramento

Celtics point guard Gary Payton expects to be traded prior to the fast-approaching deadline.

The Boston Globe is reporting that he expects to play for the Timberwolves or Kings.

Both teams are filled with veteran talent, as well as high-caliber starting point guards, in Sam Cassell and Mike Bibby.

Via Boston Globe

Boston Celtics, Minnesota Timberwolves, Sacramento Kings

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McCarty Set For Trade?

According to an article by Shira Springer in the Boston Globe, the Walter McCarty bobblehead being given away at the FleetCenter Friday night before the Celtics take on the high scoring Phoenix Suns may quickly become a collectors item.

Prior to Boston's 100-86 win over Indiana last night, the reserve forward talked about asking Danny Ainge for a trade. The proposed deal making the rounds has McCarty going to Phoenix for a second-round pick.

"Me and Danny have been talking all year," said McCarty. "We've had a lot of discussions. He knows I'm not happy, that I'm frustrated. And it's been like that for awhile. I have to stand up for myself like I should. That's what I feel. I would hate to feel that way and keep it inside. So, I thought I'd talk to Danny about it. He's been working on something."

"I'm just looking out for what's best for Walter McCarty right now. I think too many times in my career, I haven't done that. Right now, it's time for me to look out for myself, not in a selfish way, but just what would be best for me. I don't think for me not really being in the rotation, sitting on the bench, not getting an opportunity is what's best for me at this point in my career."

McCarty said he told Ainge about his frustrations a few games into the season, stating that the team has evolved to the point where he no longer fits in. He sees "the changing of the guard" with a new coaching staff, a new system where young players receive substantial playing time. He understands what the Celtics are trying to do. He recognizes he no longer fits in their plans for the future.

"Walter's had a great road here," said Celtics coach Doc Rivers. "I come in the door, we start playing young guys, his minutes go down, you expect him to be frustrated. But what he has to continue to be is a team player, and understand that. And I think he's done that for the most part. But I don't mind him being frustrated. Hell, if I was a player and Walter's age [31 next Tuesday], I would want to play, too. But I'm going to play the young guys and I've told the guys that."

Via Boston Globe

Boston Celtics, Phoenix Suns

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Stephen Jackson Scores 17 In 38 Minutes In Boston Defeat

Stephen Jackson's return to the Pacers' line-up wasn't enough for the club to defeat the Celtics in Boston, as they were defeated by a final score of 100-86.

Jackson returned from suspension and scored 17 points in 38 minutes of play.

``I felt like a kid. I'm back and I'm happy to be back,'' Jackson said. ``I was pumped, excited to be out there. But as the game went on, my shots fell shorter and shorter from the rim. You have to be out there to get in shape.''

Via Yahoo!

Indiana Pacers, Boston Celtics

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