NBA Trade Rumors: Pierce On the Move?

May 3, 2013; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Celtics small forward Paul Pierce (34) during the second quarter in game six of the first round of the 2013 NBA Playoffs against the New York Knicks at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports

Now that Doc Rivers is officially gone, it should be time for the Boston Celtics to completely blowup the roster.

First up, Paul Pierce.

According to Baxter Holmes of the Boston Globe, the Cleveland Cavaliers have help preliminary talks with the Celtics regarding the 10-time All-Star.

Boston has a June 30 deadline to decide on whether they want to extend Pierce’s contract for one year at $15 million, or buy him out for $5 million.

Looks like a no-brainer, no?

Pierce has attracted interest from several teams around the league, as expected. This move feels inevitable at this point. It needs to happen. It will happen.

The Celtics are looking for draft picks in return — they don’t want to take on another salary.

Reportedly, the Cavs have offered the Celtics both of its second round draft picks (31 and 33) for Pierce. This move could/would dramatically change the outlook for the young Cavs heading into next season. Couple Kyrie Irving, Paul Pierce and whomever they draft first overall and the Cavs could really have something going forward.

The Cavs are coming off a 24-58 season. The Celtics finished as the 7th seed in the East. Those roles could very well be switched after next season.