That Boston would like another veteran reserve for its frontcourt is not new information: the Celtics were heavily involved in courting Antonio McDyess in November when the player gave the impression his return to the Pistons was not a preordained procedure. Twice-retired P.J. Brown's name pops up, though it seems he is really retired this time. But Dikembe Mutombo has been the so-called prize of late. But Celtics coach Doc Rivers thinks Mutombo will turn elsewhere, like Houston.So who does that leave for Boston? Joe Smith's the new name.
Actually, Smith came up for discussion first in Cleveland, as Brian Windhorst of the Cleveland Plain Dealer reported on murmurs that Oklahoma City will try to trade or waive an existing big man to make room for Nenad Krstic in the rotation. Smith, the oldest of the bunch and carrying an expiring contract, would seem to be the best candidate. And this would not be unprecedented for Sam Presti: he bought out Brent Barry late last season (allowing a return to the Spurs) and sent Kurt Thomas to San Antonio for a pick. Some teams place a big emphasis on keeping veterans around; the Thunder does not.
So as with McDyess, it appears we will have a bidding war between the Eastern powers over Smith's services. Cleveland had Smith on the roster for a spell last season, so give the Cavs a head start.
