There are a number of Celtics trade rumors circulating (mostly about Ray Allen), but truth be told, unless Danny Ainge can bring back a blue chip player that can help this season AND beyond, he should not do anything (or just get a big guy on the cheap). Regardless of what some people think the Celtics are still a pretty good team with a potential to be an even better one. If they continue to show some improvement over course of a difficult part of their schedule, there is no reason to believe that they will not make the playoffs.

While the "Big 3" are not the consistently dominant players they were a few years ago, many nights they are capable of putting up superior numbers. While Rajon Rondo is not always consistent himself, he has improved in this aspect of his game and continues to show why he is such a special player. Would it be a challenge for this core group to beat the Heat or the Bulls as the lower seed in a seven game series? Of course. Would it be impossible? No. As long as Boston holds on to its core and continues to get good play out of Brandon Bass and its bench, they have a chance.

Next Year or the year after, Boston will likely have a different "Big 3" (or "Big 4"). By virtue of Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett's expiring contracts, Danny Ainge can pursue his future championship team at the end of the season. As there is not a great crop of players available for next season (as Dwight Howard is likely headed for Brooklyn), it seems like we will not be winning a championship anytime in the near future. Still, this year may be are best chance for a while to hang another banner in the Garden rafters. I am hoping Danny will give us one more chance to do so before he has to rebuild.