The Boston Celtics are trying to figure out what direction to take the franchise and some of this offseason could dictate that decision. The Celtics were once thought to be the frontrunners' to land Kevin Love, but now might be out of the race altogether as the Minnesota Timberwolves shuffle their feet on getting a deal done. That leaves the future of Rajon Rondo in the balances as he too becomes a free agent in 2015. If a deal for Love is not put together, what does that mean for the point guard?
Rondo has been very quiet regarding his intentions for 2015. The point guard has certainly heard the pending trade rumors surrounding his name, but the Celtics have not acted upon any of it. Unlike Love, Rondo is not stating whether he wants to test the free agent market next offseason or not, opting for the more media-friendly answers instead. Obviously, Rondo is ready to contend for a title and the Celtics need more help if they are going to do that, so if a deal for Love fails to develop, does the point guard sign elsewhere?
According to the Boston Herald, the Celtics have every intention of keeping Rondo through his next contract, referring to him as a cornerstone player. Co-owner Steve Pagliuca says that Boston is invested in Rondo and making him a franchise player. He told the Herald that the Celtics could have easily traded him by now if they wanted to since almost every team in the league has inquired about his availability, but Boston is not looking to make a move like that.
Instead, they want to hold onto Rondo and use him to recruit Love. The longer the Timberwolves wait on a deal for the forward, the more unlikely it is that he will be wearing another jersey next season. That means Love could be hitting the market next summer, drawing even more interest than he is now. If the Celtics cannot sign him then Rondo could be out of Boston as well.
The Celtics are still in pursuit of Love. Despite reports stating they have given up their interest in striking a deal, the Celtics are still looking towards the move. They have been offering Jared Sullinger and Jeff Green as options, but could include someone like Marcus Smart, especially if they retain Rondo. They have competition with Andrew Wiggins up for grabs and possibly Doug McDermott on the market, but Boston is not giving up on the race.
