Why pay so much for Ray?

1.  It would get him to stay (nobody else would pay him that much).

2. It's not my money :)

3. Danny could then use that expiring contract at the trading deadline to get a whole lot of help for the playoff push.

4.  It would be good for Ray, and good for the Celtics.

I wanted them to consider trading Ray at the deadline last year because his contract was so valuable.  However, he is such a class guy and helped at times during the playoff run, I was glad Danny kept him.  But... with no ability to get a high quality player due to salary cap restrictions, this could be the way to do it (unless there is something in the CBA about signing only a one year extension).

Any thoughts?