http://www.nba.com/2010/news/07/02/celtics.pierce.ap/index.html?ls=iref:nbahpt2 Wow, we've been talking about stars opting out of a massive contract for less money in order to help their team. One player has finally done it. I admire Pierce for his loyalty to the Celtics, and his willingness to give up $21.5M to give the Celtics a competative chance next season. Of course, he is also giving himself long term security with the aforementioned deal.
I'm not saying that Pierce is a selfish b*stard but he hardly "gave up" much money. $61 million now > $21 million + "Wait for next CBA"
So this is actually a win-win situation for both Pierce and the Celtics. Even with the uncertainty of the new CBA, it's still quite likely that Pierce will be able to get a new contract worth 40m had he not opt out of his contract. Now he secures his earnings, and gives the Celtics more room to operate.
