re: Vecsey says the Celts are discussing Battie-Ewill for Antonio Dav is

[wayray@xxxxxxxxxxxxx]

As previously noted, it doesn't work cap wise. Davis has two years left on his
contract and it's more favorable for the Celtics to just let Williams go after
the season, especially if Walker makes good on his reported threats
to leave. If Baker exited this season:  59 - 14 = 45 - 5 = 40 - 14  = 26.  
A figure in that vicinity is what the Celtics are striving for, so they can sign a Impact MAX Free Agent. Of course, if Walker and Williams leave, but Baker stays, then big
problems.  

The key is for Baker to either play well and attract the attention of teams wanting
frontcourt help, who aren't bothered by the luxury tax, and have players with expiring
contracts like the Knicks with Ward and Knight or  Dallas with Chris Mills or for
his contract to be negated or for him to  retire with a favorable buyout.
Ray 
  

> ** Original Subject: Vecsey says the Celts are discussing Battie-Ewill for Antonio Dav is
> ** Original Sender: "Berry, Mark  S" <berrym@xxxxxxxxxxxx>
> ** Original Date: Fri, 19 Sep 2003 05:43:29 -0700 (PDT)

> ** Original Message follows... 

>
> Here's the blurb. That would be a good move on the floor, but I can't
> imagine the Celts doing it because of Davis' contract. Anyone have any
> thoughts?
> 
> Mark
> 
> 
> In the meantime, I'm informed Grunwald and Danny Ainge are discussing a swap
> of Davis for Tony Battie and free agent-in-waiting Eric Williams.
> Considering Boston's cap already is sky high ($60M this season, $59M next)
> it's doubtful that deal will go down. That is, unless Ainge can figure out a
> way to "capsize" Vin Baker.

>** --------- End Original Message ----------- **