Bskball: Walker for Croshere and Jackson

[Way Of The Ray <wayray@ix.netcom.com>]

I don't see this particular deal happening.  At least you would
think and hope they could get more for Walker. Plus, from what I
remember
of the C's talks with Indiana, they were greatly interested in Jalen
Rose...


04/29-INDIANA AND BOSTON- Rick Pitino is starting fresh...thats the
word.... If he can get quality players in trade he is ready to explore
serious changes, and word is that he may actually unload Antoine Walker
to the Pacers for Austin Croshere and Mark Jackson. Jax has been a
player Pitino has been very complimentary of and some say he has made
offers for him before. Croshere is a player that Rick really liked and
early trade talk with Indiana this year about Walker featured Croshere
in the package. The Pacers have repeatedly expressed interest in Antoine
Walker, and have been close to deals with the Celtics a number of 
times, only to be nixed last minute. With the Pacers basically looking
to re-tool this summer, and the impending departure of Jackson via free
agency, its been said the Pacers would reward Jackson in a sign and
trade, on the flip side of this deal Austin Croshere is said to be a
player Indiana would like to keep so parting with him may be harder for
the Celtics to get done. Initial reports say the Celtics will try for
them with their exceptions via free agency, but that isn't very likely
as both will command more on the open market. There is also a small
amount of truth to the idea of a sign and trade with Danny Fortson,
heading to the Pacers too. The Pacers do hold a trade exception that can
offset some of the base year issues, and they do look to be under the
cap, possibly removing base year altogether. In a private meeting with
key Celtic management it was agreed the team must make a splash with a
free agent or two and that they should consider a trade if it
drastically improves the quality of the team. And plans for such a move
may also drastically effect what the Celtics look for in the draft.