Bulpett: Celtics May Go After Barry

[wayray@xxxxxxxxxxxxx]

(Not with just Chris Mills. A drafty pick or others would have to be involved.
Any ways, Barry fits into Ainge's concept of a tall point guard.)

C's may go after Barry
By Steve Bulpett
Tuesday, February 3, 2004 
The Celtics may have another move up their sleeve. In what may be a shot in the dark, sources on both coasts say the club has spoken to Seattle about guard Brent Barry, who will be a free agent after this season. 
	
Celtics head of basketball operations Danny Ainge wouldn't confirm the contact yesterday, but others say the C's do like Barry's abilities at the point (he's a nice passer and a 41 percent career shooter on treys - 44 percent this season). And even if nothing gets worked out before the Feb. 19 trade deadline, it is likely the Celts will make a pitch to Barry when he becomes free this summer. 
	
Barry, currently out 5-6 weeks after breaking the ring finger on his right hand, makes $5.4 million this season. Considering the marketplace, the 32-year-old will be looking at something in the mid-level exception range (slightly less than what he's getting now) when he is available. 
	
The Sonics reportedly would like to keep him, but they might be willing to deal if they believe he will leave at season's end. 
	
It is not certain what the Celtics would offer, but sources say Chris Mills might be the bait. Mills, unable to play this season because of injury, makes $6.6 million in this, the last year of his contract. But if Seattle is looking to save some dollars, 80 percent of his deal is paid by insurance. 
	
The problem could be that the Sonics went into last night's play in 10th position in the West, just 2 games out of the last playoff spot.