Mark Murphy of the Boston Herald is reporting that the Kevin Garnett to Boston trade is official. The Celtics will send Al Jefferson, Gerald Green, Ryan Gomes, Sebastian Telfair, Theo Ratliff’s expiring deal, and two first round draft picks (one of which is from Minnesota in the first place from the Ricky Davis deal).

Garnett has also agreed to a three-year contract extension with the Celtics, which will allow the Celtics to have “The Big Ticket” locked up for the next five years. Garnett is expected to arrive in Boston to take his physical later today.

Update: Mark Murphy made an initial typo, and Gerald Green is in fact being shipped to Minnesota.

FOX Sports writer Jeff Goodman is reporting that the Celtics and Timberwolves are working on a deal involving Kevin Garnett, and his sources stated that it could happen within the next 48 hours. The reported deal on the table involves Al Jefferson, Theo Ratliff’s expiring deal, and Rajon Rondo. It is not complete, but Goodman’s source said that “It’s basically done.”

Marc Stein of ESPN.com is also reporting the possibility of an upcoming deal involving Kevin Garnett to Boston. This article, however, reports a different deal: Al Jefferson, Theo Ratliff, Gerald Green, and Sebastian Telfair.

My personal take on this is that we are giving up too much in the reported deals. Kevin Garnett is a great player, but I personally do not want to trade Al Jefferson for a 31-year-old… let alone Rajon Rondo or Gerald Green along with him. I love Kevin Garnett, and Garnett would clearly restore relevancy in Boston, but I personally would not make this deal. What it comes down to is that I’d rather have over ten years of Al Jefferson as opposed to a three-four year window with Garnett, then have to completely rebuild yet again.

We’ve been through the same old song and dance before, though. Time will tell.

UPDATE: Eric Weiss of Draft Express is reporting that the Celtics and Timberwolves have agreed to terms on a deal that will send Al Jefferson, Theo Ratliff, Gerald Green, and Sebastian Telfair to Minnesota. Weiss says that the league sources that has told Draft Express this information states that “The exact details of the trade aren’t known at this point, but it is believed that the deal will be completed shortly with similar parameters.”

Weiss also mentions that rumblings have occurred that suggests Garnett’s camp is pushing for a 5-year contract extension worth $125 million, should this deal go through.

My updated thoughts: I am happy that Rondo isn’t involved in the more recent report, but it’s still a lot. Speaking of a lot, $125 million for a 31-year-old declining player? Are you joking? Wyc Grousbeck and co. better be willing to spend a lot of luxury tax dollars if they want to satisfy “The Big Ticket,” not to mention put a more experienced supporting cast about the All-Star trio.

UPDATE (7/30/07, 1:30 pm ET): Steve Bulpett of the Boston Herald is reporting that deal is “essentially completed,” and that Kevin Garnett and the Celtics have agreed to terms on a contract extension.

UPDATE (7/30/07, 5:00 pm ET): According to the Associated Press, the Celtics and Timberwolves have agreed to a deal. The Celtics will send Al Jefferson, Gerald Green, Theo Ratliff, Sebastian Telfair, and possibly a first round draft pick(s).

Hi, combs here.  I just wanted to let you know we created our first ever Celtics forum for this site.  I hope you will see us over there and join and post.  Currently we are looking for an Admin to run the forum.  That Admin can appoint his own moderating crew and run the forum to the best of his capability.

You can get to the forum by going here: http://www.celticsnews.com/Boston-Celtics-Forum It’s still in Beta and theres still work to be done.  Hope to see you there!

Just weeks ago, Danny Ainge requested an extension on the decision to pick up Allan Ray’s option, and elected to sign undrafted forward Brandon Wallace. Allan Ray made the decision an easy one for the Celtics, as Wallace is now the 15th man on the roster while Ray will be taking his talent overseas to Italy. Ray signed a two-year deal with Lottomatica Roma, an Italian Serie A team, worth $2 million. Not only is the sharpshooting guard getting a better opportunity to display his talent, he is also receiving a big pay increase, as he would have made roughly $687.5 thousand next season had Danny Ainge decided to keep him around.

Appearing in 47 games for the Celtics last season, Ray scored 6.2 points per game, grabbed 1.5 rebounds per game, and shot over 41% from three-point territory. Ray was given the call to start in five of those games, averaging 15.2 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game, as well as shooting roughly 46% from beyond the arc, as a starter. He was also assigned to the D-League’s Austin Toros for two games last season, averaging 14.5 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 2 assists per game against NBDL competition.

With the lack of action on the Celtics front nowadays, hop on over to A Boston Sports Fan’s Blog and read about more than just the green. Check the blog for daily news regarding Boston sports, as the Red Sox are fighting for the division crown and the Patriots are getting ready for training camp.

While you’re at it, head on over to Celtics 24/7 to take a look at the new layout.

The Celtics wrapped up their 2007 Vegas Summer League with a blowout loss to the Dallas Mavericks, 91-70, as the green finished with a 3-2 record. The story of the Celtics throughout the first four games was the crisp team defense, and that surely was not the case in this one. The undefeated Mavericks walked all over Boston’s defense and practically had their way, shooting 51% as a team. Reyshawn Terry led the way with 23 points on 9-13 shooting, while Jose Juan Barea had yet another spectacular outing running the show, racking up 11 beautiful assists. Former New Orleans Hornet Brandon Bass also displayed some physical play, attacking the rack and scoring 16 points off the Dallas bench.

While the Celtics couldn’t get it done on the defensive end, they also couldn’t manage to convert on the offensive side either, hence the blowout loss. As a team, the C’s shot just 37% from the floor, turned the ball over 20 times (opposed to Dallas’ 10), and missed 10 free throws.

Despite the mishaps, there was one bright spot for Boston in their summer league finale, and that was the play of Glen “Big Baby” Davis. Davis was sensational on both ends of the floor, displaying his heart, determination, and versatility. Davis was a monster on the boards, grabbing 14 rebounds, as well as playing tough defense with his six blocked shots (he was also not credited for two rejections). On the offensive end, the 35th overall pick in the draft showed how versatile he is, as he scored in the post, displayed his mid-range touch, took guys off the dribble, and showed off his outstanding passing ability. Play-by-play guy Rick Kamla could not get enough of Davis’ performance, and couldn’t stop himself from raving about his play throughout the entire game. “Big Baby” was absolutely phenomenal.

Gerald Green continued his struggles, and this time he didn’t show up on either end of the floor. He was as frustrated as he has been all week long, forcing shots, unable to knock down open looks, getting crushed by Reyshawn Terry, and the Gerald Green naysayers have the right to yap yet again.

Allan Ray had some excellent moments, and also some bad ones. Ray did manage to knock down a couple shots from the perimeter, as well as make some impressive acrobatic finishes off penetration, but he also was completely unaware of the shot clock throughout the entire game and made some poor decisions with the ball.

Rajon Rondo sat out this one as well, and gave Gabe Pruitt another long look at the point. The rookie combo guard out of USC had a relatively quiet game on the offensive end, as he usually displays his quickness and athleticism to go along with his good-looking stroke. Pruitt didn’t look for his own offense in this one, and that looked to be the reason why he was so quiet. He did, however, remain in control and manage to take good care of the basketball.

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Celtics Player Stat Lines

• Glen Davis: 19 points, 14 rebounds, 6 blocks, 2 steals, 1 assist, 3 turnovers, 8-18 FG, 3-4 FT
• Allan Ray: 15 points, 1 rebound, 2 assists, 2 turnovers, 5-10 FG, 2-4 3FG, 3-3 FT
• Gerald Green: 15 points, 2 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 turnovers, 4-14 FG, 0-3 3FG, 7-10 FT
• Gabe Pruitt: 2 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal, 1 block, 1 turnover, 1-5 FG
• Pat Carroll: 6 points, 4 rebounds, 1 turnover, 2-5 FG, 2-2 FT
• Lance Allred: 5 points, 5 rebounds, 1 block, 2 turnovers, 2-3 FG, 1-2 FT
• Leon Powe: 2 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 turnovers, 1-5 FG
• Sergio Sanchez: 3 points, 1 rebound, 3 turnovers, 1-4 FG, 0-1 3FG, 1-1 FT
• Eric Hicks: 2 points, 1 rebound, 1 block, 1-1 FG
• Brandon Wallace: 1 point, 1 rebound, 0-1 FG, 1-2 FT
• Andreas Glyniadakis: 4 turnovers, 0-1 FG
• Rajon Rondo: DNP
• Torin Francis: DNP

Without Rajon Rondo, who sat down in order to let the Celtics get a long look at Gabe Pruitt running the point, the Celtics have improved their summer league record to 3-1. The defensive rotations were outstanding in the second half, especially late in the fourth quarter, and the C’s were also very aggressive on the boards. Leon Powe, Glen Davis, and Brandon Wallace grabbed nine rebounds apiece, as the team outrebounded the Milwaukee Bucks 38-22. The Celtics’ front line may be undersized, but they surely outwork their opponents each and every night.

While Glen “Big Baby” Davis was active on the glass, he also had a terrific all-around game and caught the attention of those watching. Davis showed the ability to score inside, use his combination of strength and quickness to his advantage, and play good team basketball. Davis got himself to the free throw line and scored the ball at an efficient rate (6-8 from the floor), but he also made some outstanding passes, including the game clincher to Leon Powe off the cut. Davis likely had his best all-around outing of all four summer league games.

As mentioned above, Rajon Rondo sat out of tonight’s action in order for the team to get a long look at Gabe Pruitt running the point for an extended period of time. Pruitt did a very solid job running the offense in the first half, although he made two poor decisions on the break. He was relatively quiet in the third quarter, but absolutely exploded in the fourth. It all started with a prayer three-pointer Pruitt hit at the end of a shot clock. He then managed to knock down a pull-up, play solid defense, block a shot, finish on the break, and throw down a vicious one-handed slam over a Bucks big man. Pruitt ignited the Celtics surge, and while he did make a few mistakes, he looked very solid at the point.

Brandon Wallace impressed yet again. The undrafted forward was a hound defensively, active on the glass, and displayed his great athletic ability yet again. He also came up with multiple hustle plays that surely would have earned him two or three “Tommy Points.” Wallace has been impressive in all four games thus far, hopefully he can end it with a bang tomorrow night.

Just when you thought Gerald Green couldn’t play any worse on the offensive end, he did. Green could not find his shot, played extremely sloppy, turned the ball over, and really forced the issue (usually leading into a mistake). However, Green was very active defensively and contested every shot he could. While most people are alarmed about Green’s poor offensive performance, they fail to realize how solid he has been on the defensive end, which has always been the weakest part of his game. The offense will come, but it’s promising to see him play decent defense out there, even if it is just summer league action.

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Celtics Player Stat Lines

• Glen Davis: 16 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 block, 6-8 FG, 4-7 FT
• Gabe Pruitt: 14 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals, 1 block, 5 turnovers, 6-9 FG, 1-2 3FG, 1-2 FT
• Allan Ray: 14 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals, 4 turnovers, 5-14 FG, 1-3 3FG, 3-3 FT
• Leon Powe: 11 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists, 5 turnovers, 3-6 FG, 5-10 FT
• Gerald Green: 8 points, 2 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 turnovers, 3-12 FG, 1-3 3FG, 1-2 FT
• Brandon Wallace: 6 points, 9 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 blocks, 3-3 FG, 0-4 FT
• Andreas Glyniadakis: 6 points, 3-3 FG
• Lance Allred: 5 points, 2 rebounds, 2-4 FG, 1-2 FT
• Pat Carroll: 4 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists, 2-5 FG, 0-1 3FG
• Sergio Sanchez: 2 minutes
• Rajon Rondo: DNP
• Eric Hicks: DNP
• Torin Francis: DNP

The Celtics improved their summer league record to 2-1, as they absolutely walloped the Chinese National Team with a 28 point victory (80-52). Due to China’s relatively soft front line, which all likes to play the perimeter, the Celtics were able to dominate the glass, outrebounding China 43-28. Leon Powe and Glen “Big Baby” Davis did most of the work on the glass, combining for 23 rebounds.

Aside from the tough inside play, Boston played very aggressively on the defensive end, forcing 26 turnovers and not letting them get anything easily. While Rajon Rondo sticks out defensively every night, guys like Leon Powe and Brandon Wallace also did a tremendous job. The activity of Wallace is very appealing, and while the average fan may not notice or appreciate what he does, he has a legitimate shot at making the final roster.

Leon Powe certainly was “The Show” tonight, scoring 23 points on just 9 shot attempts, grabbing 12 rebounds, and working significantly harder than anybody else on the floor. With that work ethic, production on the glass, mixed with the extra intangibles he brings, it’s going to be tough for Doc Rivers to keep him on the bench.

Powe’s tag-team partner, Glen Davis, had a rough night. While he was great on the glass, he was extremely frustrated out there all night long, picking up some ticky-tack fouls and turning the ball over. Hopefully “Big Baby” can put together a good game on Friday night, because he wasn’t a happy camper against China.

Rajon Rondo got off to a beautiful start, attacking the basket and being very aggressive offensively. We have seen so many times where Rondo has completely passed up wide open opportunities, but he did a pretty good job in this contest. He took much better care of the ball than he did Monday night vs. San Antonio, and once again he harassed the opposing guards.

Gerald Green had a horrid offensive night. He couldn’t knock down a perimeter jumper to save his life, he looked frustrated, and he never got a chance to get anything going. Despite his struggles and frustrations, the one promising thing about Green in this game was that he still played very solid defense. He was extremely active defensively throughout the night. If there’s one thing you want to see from Gerald throughout summer league action, it’s just that.

China’s newest star, Yi Jianlian, had another unimpressive outing. Jianlian clearly is an outstanding athlete and has a ton of raw talent, but he isn’t showing it in summer league action. Jianlian struggled mightily on the defensive end, committed eight fouls, and due to the strong defense of Leon Powe, he was unable to get many shots off. The ironic thing about all of this? It is believed that if Danny Ainge would have held on to the fifth pick in June’s draft, Jianlian would have been the selection. You can’t base your opinion on anybody based on summer league play, but he certainly has a lot of deficiencies he needs to improve on.

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Celtics Player Stat Lines

• Leon Powe: 23 points, 12 rebounds, 7-9 FG, 9-12 FT
• Rajon Rondo: 12 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, 5-10 FG, 2-4 FT
• Glen Davis: 10 points, 11 rebounds, 8 fouls, 3-5 FG, 4-6 FT
• Gerald Green: 10 points, 2 rebounds, 1 block, 2-10 FG, 0-3 3FG, 6-10 FT
• Brandon Wallace: 2 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals, 1 block, 1-2 FG
• Lance Allred: 5 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, 2-7 FG, 1-2 FT
• Andreas Glyniadakis: 5 points, 1 rebound, 1 assist, 1 block, 2-5 FG, 1-1 FT
• Gabe Pruitt: 4 points, 3 rebounds, 2-4 FG, 0-1 3FG
• Pat Carroll: 4 points, 1 rebound, 1 assist, 2 steals, 1-4 FG, 2-2 FT
• Allan Ray: 3 points, 1 assist, 3 steals, 1-4 FG, 1-3 3FG
• Sergio Sanchez: 2 points, 2 rebounds, 2 turnovers, 0-1 3FG, 2-2 FT, 6 min
• Eric Hicks: 0-2 FG, 4 min
• Torin Francis: DNP

The Celtics have evened out at 1-1 in the Vegas summer league after losing a frustrating game to the San Antonio Spurs earlier today. Neither team got into a real rhythm offensively throughout the entire night, and the turnovers were out of hand (Boston with 29, San Antonio with 23).

The first half was alright for the Celtics from a defensive standpoint, as Rajon Rondo was absolutely harassing C.J. Watson on the perimeter while Glen Davis and Leon Powe were rotating beautifully down low. Rondo consistently defended well throughout the rest of the game, but Spurs center Jackie Butler (16 points, 12 rebounds) took over offensively, while the Spurs perimeter players played the passing lanes and came up with some easy buckets to seal the deal.

The worst part about the Celtics turning the ball over 29 times was that the bulk of them, especially in the second half, were unforced. It was nothing short of bad decision making by the Celtics. The C’s were telegraphing their passes, and Allan Ray didn’t help the issue by throwing two key possessions away late in the fourth quarter. Even Rajon Rondo, who normally takes good care of the basketball, committed seven turnovers. The guards aren’t the only ones to be blamed, however, as both Leon Powe and Glen Davis didn’t get anything going in the post, which led to forcing the issue, resulting in more turnovers.

Adding to the turnovers, poor decision making, and lack of execution, the Celtics also failed to shoot the ball at a reasonable rate (15-45, 33%). Gerald Green especially had a horrid shooting night, shooting 3-10 with his shot looking extremely flat. Allan Ray failed to connect from long distance at the end of the game, shooting just 1-5 from beyond the arc. Rajon Rondo managed to knock down a couple jumpers and slash to the basket, but he also threw up a lot of bricks and failed to finish. Rondo was, however, much more aggressive offensively in the second half, even though he didn’t often connect.

The only Celtics to really play well were Glen “Big Baby” Davis and Brandon Wallace. Davis was extremely active all game long, and earned himself roughly 32 minutes of action. Davis still didn’t connect from the field, but made great defensive rotations, was a hound on the boards, and was extremely aggressive inside getting himself to the line. Brandon Wallace was active defensively, once again, and did a great job on the glass. Wallace also has reportedly earned himself a contract, which is an invite to training camp at the very least.

The Celtics will continue their summer league play on Wednesday night against Yi Jianlian and the Chinese National team. Yi, who was believed to be Danny Ainge’s selection had the Celtics stayed content with the 5th overall pick, nailed the game winning shot to give China their first summer league win on Sunday, over the Cleveland Cavaliers.

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Celtics Player Stat Lines

• Glen Davis: 12 points, 9 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 blocks, 5 turnovers, 2-8 FG, 8-10 FT
• Rajon Rondo: 10 points, 5 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, 7 turnovers, 3-8 FG, 4-4 FT
• Gerald Green: 10 points, 3 rebounds, 1 steal, 1 block, 3 turnovers, 3-10 FG, 4-5 FT
• Leon Powe: 7 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 turnovers, 2-4 FG, 3-6 FT
• Allan Ray: 7 points, 1 rebound, 4 turnovers, 3-9 FG, 1-5 3FG
• Brandon Wallace: 4 points, 5 rebounds, 1 steal, 2-3 FG
• Andreas Glyniadakis: 2 points, 2-2 FT
• Lance Allred: 1 point, 3 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 turnovers, 1-2 FT
• Gabe Pruitt: 1 rebound, 1 turnover, 0-3 FG, 0-2 3FG
• Pat Carroll: 1 turnover, 4 minutes
• Sergio Sanchez: DNP
• Torin Francis: DNP

The Celtics have signed forward Brandon Wallace to a two-year deal. Wallace has impressed in practice as well as both summer league games thus far, especially after they moved him to the 3. This contract gets Wallace a ticket to training camp, but will he go any further than that? Only time will tell, but it will be very interesting to see whether the team elects to pick up Allan Ray’s option by August 1 or not.

The Celtics began their 2007 summer league efforts last night, as they faced #1 overall draft pick Greg Oden and his Portland Trail Blazers. On paper, Portland’s roster looks deeper and more talented, but that can only take you so far. The C’s jumped all over Portland from the get-go, and Oden found himself in immediate foul trouble just three minutes into the game. In fact, the big fella ended up fouling out (also note that you get 10 fouls in summer league). Leon Powe, Glen Davis, and Lance Allred all did an excellent job covering Oden and not letting him establish his ground. That seemed to be the case with this Celtics team last night: good team defense, something we’re not used to seeing.

While Oden didn’t have a picture perfect debut, LaMarcus Aldridge looked great out there throughout the entire game. He was nailing 18 footers with ease, blocking shots, he was very active, and he was snatching boards. Aldridge finished with 26 points, 11 rebounds, and 3 blocks on 10-17 shooting.

Leon Powe was “the show” last night. Not only was he extremely aggressive, finished at the rim, and hounded the boards, he also did a commendable job on Greg Oden. He didn’t allow Oden to get position on him, he didn’t allow him to back him down, he boxed him out.

Gerald Green came out with some extra bounce in his step, as he showed off his athletic ability, put himself on the highlight reel a couple times, and hit some jumpers. Green was pretty quiet in the second half, and he did take some questionable shots, but his defense looked to be much improved. Granted, this was just one summer league game, but Green’s single coverage last night made Celtics fans smile. Even head coach Doc Rivers commented on Gerald’s defense, and was happy with it.

Allan Ray usually doesn’t have a good game if he’s not shooting well, but that wasn’t the case last night. He struggled from the perimeter, but he also did other things and kept himself in the game. He was active on the glass and he got himself to the free throw line.

Glen “Big Baby” Davis got into foul trouble, had to guard bigger players, and couldn’t get anything going offensively. However, he was still very active and he really made some terrific passes inside. You should expect to see Davis have a better night on Monday.

Gabe Pruitt showed some flashes last night. He shot the ball pretty well from the perimeter and was aggressive, but he was very quiet in the second half and struggled defensively in the second half as well.

Rajon Rondo had a rough night. He did a good job defensively, which is what the C’s need most, but he has to stop passing up multiple layups. He must have passed up four or five of them last night by passing out of them in the air, and he also missed two. He did, however, manage to make an 80 footer as the first quarter expired. Rondo is expected to have a better outing on Monday, as well.

The surprise of the night was undrafted forward Brandon Wallace. Playing small forward, Wallace impressed. He was extremely active around the basket, played good defense, and really showed off his athletic ability. His length, quickness, and athleticism wowed both the coaching staff and the NBA TV announcers. Hopefully, Wallace continues to impress and earns himself an invite to training camp.

Side note: Sebastian Telfair attended the game, and watched in the stands, sitting next to Danny Ainge.

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Celtics Player Stat Lines

• Leon Powe: 19 points, 9 rebounds, 1 steal, 7-13 FG, 5-8 FT
• Gerald Green: 14 points, 2 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, 1 block, 5-11 FG, 1-3 3FG, 3-7 FT
• Allan Ray: 11 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists, 3-10 FG, 0-3 3FG, 5-7 FT
• Brandon Wallace: 8 points, 5 rebounds, 1 steal, 1 block, 3-6 FG, 0-1 3FG, 2-2 FT
• Gabe Pruitt: 7 points, 1 steal, 3-6 FG, 0-1 3FG
• Rajon Rondo: 6 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, 1-4 FG, 1-1 3FG, 3-6 FT
• Lance Allred: 6 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, 2-6 FG, 2-2 FT
• Glen Davis: 3 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, 0-5 FG, 3-4 FT
• Andreas Glyniadakis: 2:37 of playing time
• Sergio Sanchez: DNP
• Torin Francis: DNP
• Eric Hicks: DNP
• Pat Carroll: DNP

The 2007 Las Vegas Summer League will officially be underway at 4:00 pm ET, with the Philadelphia 76ers and the San Antonio Spurs. At 6:00 pm, Kevin Durant will make his debut as Seattle will face off against Dallas. At 8:00 pm, Mike Conley Jr. and the Memphis Grizzlies will go head-to-head with Yi Jianlian and the Chinese National team. All games will be available on NBA TV and NBA.com, via webcast.
10:00 pm ET, however, is the time Celtics and Blazers fans are anxiously waiting for, as Greg Oden makes his summer league debut. Adding to the NBA.com live streaming, this game will also be available to watch on FSN New England and NBA TV.

With the San Antonio Spurs purchasing the Austin Toros, the Celtics needed to be assigned to a new D-League affiliate. That team turned out to be the Utah Flash. Boston will be sharing the affiliation with the NBA’s Utah Jazz.

Celtics assistant Dave Wohl has been moved up to the front office, which opens up another assistant coach position. Along with this move, Danny Ainge also finally has the GM (General Manager) tag, which was previously held by Chris Wallace, who recently left the organization for the General Manager position in Memphis. Celtics head coach Doc Rivers claims that despite losing two assistants this offseason (Tony Brown and now Dave Wohl), he still plans to hire just one assistant this summer. Former Timberwolves head coach Dwane Casey is said to be one of the leading candidates.

As expected, the Celtics have picked up forward Ryan Gomes’ third year option, which will net him $770,610 next year. Gomes has gotten off to an outstanding start to his NBA career, as he has earned himself significant minutes after being selected in the late second round in 2005 (50th overall). Last season, Gomes posted averages of 12.1 points and 5.6 rebounds per game, while putting up 13.0 points and 5.8 rebounds as a starter. While he is putting up solid all-around numbers, that isn’t the half of what Gomes brings to the table. His poise, personality, basketball IQ, versatility, work ethic, and hustle are all major assets he brings to this basketball team.

The team also has until August 1 to pick up guard Allan Ray’s second year option. Ray’s play throughout the next two weeks in Vegas could very well determine his place on the roster.

The Celtics released their summer league roster today, as the team will be holding their first practice tomorrow in Las Vegas, to prepare for league action, which starts on Friday. The Green will be facing Greg Oden and the Trail Blazers on Friday night, which will be aired live on FSN at 10:00 pm ET. The roster is as follows:

57 Lance Allred C 6-11 270 Weber State

46 Pat Carroll G/F 6-5 190 St. Joseph’s

11 Glen Davis F 6-9 289 Louisiana State

59 Torin Francis F 6-11 252 Notre Dame

58 Andreas Glyniadakis C 7-1 280 Greece

5 Gerald Green G-F 6-8 200 Gulf Shores Academy

0 Leon Powe F 6-8 240 California

13 Gabe Pruitt G 6-4 170 Southern California

12 Allan Ray G 6-2 190 Villanova

9 Rajon Rondo G 6-1 171 Kentucky

36 Sergio Sanchez G 6-3 207 Spain

49 Brandon Wallace F 6-9 203 South Carolina

Ray Allen could not choose is life-long #34 (Paul Pierce), or any number in the 30-35 range (30 to Sebastian Telfair, 31-33 retired by Cedric Maxwell, Kevin McHale, and Larry Bird, and 35 retired by Reggie Lewis). Allen will wear #20 in Celtic green. Allen also stated that his ankles, in which he had surgery in April to remove bone spurs (same procedure Al Jefferson had last summer), are in “perfect” shape.

Celtics rookies Glen Davis (#11, 35th overall pick by Seattle, then traded to Boston along with Ray Allen) and Gabe Pruitt (#13, 32nd overall pick) will be in Vegas later this week to suit up with the summer league team. The first Celtics game of the 2007 Las Vegas Summer League will be on Friday night at 10:00 pm ET, and will be broadcasted on FSN.