Boston is a difficult draw for the best free agents. Even cap space doesn't lure them. So what do we have?

The PEOPLE in the organization. Pierce and K.G. are role models to the next generation of great players.

As such, who does not want to play with or learn from the people they admire?

This is one major reason we must keep them and urge them to coach for us.

The future of the Celtics is at stake.

T-Will is one of many lottery picks that looked up to Pierce, LaMarcus Aldridge wears #12( a reversal of K.G.'s 21 like Dwight Howard admitted to?) Joakim Noah had Garnett posters in his bedroom. This is the kind of human resources that can't be bought!

We can't screw it up for "a quick buck" type trade.

I agree 100% -- every business needs a role model. You have to protect your brand.

I actually think the opposite is true. I don't think other players like or respect Kg or Pierce. We may be better suited at signing free agents when they are gone.

well hold it as much as you can and if you can't, there is always a compromise without hurting the legacy.

I think Ainge still has an issue landing FA in Boston. Remember, KG and RA were trades, Green was a trade, Bass a trade. We've had some vet minimums go to Boston but no high priced FAs. Let's see if that changes this year because if it doesn't the only way to get one is to make another trade ....Rondo.

Ainge couldn't afford to trade PP or KG right now. If he had done that other players would've seen how he treats guys after the RA deal.