NBA Rumors: Boston Celtics plan to keep Rajon Rondo?
When the Boston Celtics used their sixth-overall pick to select former Oklahoma State Cowboys’ point guard Marcus Smart, many figured that would end the Celtics’ pursuit of a superstar.
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In fact,most believed it would signal the end of Rajon Rondo’s time in Boston. However, the Celtics have said they believe Smart and Rondo can play together and according to the Celtics’ president, they want Rondo around for a “long time.”
Matt Moore of CBS Sports and our own Hardwood Paroxysm has the scoop.
"Boston Celtics team President Rich Gotham appeared on CBS Sports Radio Friday with Amy Lawrence. Gotham discussed Marcus Smart and James Young, who were taken in the 2014 NBA Draft and commented on Rajon Rondo’s future with the team:On Rondo“It’s a two way street. … We want him here and we’re hopeful he wants to be here for the long term, which he says he does. He’s our best player and in the NBA you win with talent. He’s a big part of what we’re doing and will continue going forward.”There was speculation that the Celtics would finally pick a path on draft night, either trading for Kevin Love to team him with Rajon Rondo or committing to a rebuild and trading Rajon Rondo for future assets. But Gotham’s comments indicate that’s not where the Celtics are."
Rondo was limited just 30 games while returning from his ACL injury and averaged 11.7 points, 9.8 assists, 5.5 rebounds and 1.3 steals per game. He shot 40.3% from the field, 28.9% from beyond the arc and 62.7% from the free throw line.