Rajon Rondo is setting the record straight, he wants to stay with the Boston Celtics. The point guard has faced several questions regarding his future with free agency approaching at the end of the upcoming season. Many believe Rondo is poised for a quick exit, especially after a down season and the exits of Doc Rivers, Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce last year. However, while speaking at the media days for the Celtics, Rondo is setting the record straight on his intentions for the future.
According to Ben Rohrbach of WEEI, Rondo has every intention to remain in Boston for the long-term, stating his love for the fans as the reason he intends to re-sign with the Celtics.
"The fans, the people here make me want to stay," Rondo said, via the Boston Herald. "The organization has been great. I can't say enough about Danny and [team owner] Wyc [Grousbeck]. When I walk down the street, the fans embraced me from Day 1. Even when we won a championship, people don't just appreciate us winning. It's more of a 'thank you.' It's a love for the game.
However, that re-signing will come at a price for the Celtics. Rondo told the media that he views himself as a max contract player which will certainly not be cheap for Boston. The Celtics can afford to take on Rondo with a max contract. The question is whether or not they are willing to. Rumors have been swirling regarding Rondo's recent injury with his broken hands and questions regarding his ability to be coached. Have the Celtics soured on the point guard? Danny Ainge has not.
"A lot of people will think he's motivated because he's a free agent [next summer]," Ainge said, via ESPNBoston.com. "I don't think that's what drives Rajon. I think that he's motivated because he didn't play to his standards coming off the knee injury. He doesn't like to not be good. He doesn't like not being considered one of the best point guards in the game. I think that's what drives him, that's what motivates him, and that's what drove him to hard work this summer."
For now, the Celtics will be without Rondo. Most assume that Marcus Smart will take over the position until the veteran is healthy. The rookie was drafted over the summer to backup Rondo or take over the point guard position should he be traded or walk away in free agency. The Celtics have denied every intention of trading Rondo, but interest is certainly high and if the right offer is made, do not put anything past Ainge.
