After Paul Pierces shot in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Semi-Finals didn’t count to push the Atlanta Hawks and Washington Wizards to Game 7, Paul Pierce didn’t know if he could return to the NBA. The Washington Wizards made huge strides in the Playoffs with Pierce in the lineup, and when the game came down to the last shot, Pierce was their shot taker, not Beal or Wall. He plays a massive role for the Wizards and he is essential to their success next year, will they be able to keep him? Sources say it might be harder than they thought.
According to The Players’ Tribune:
.@paulpierce34 has informed The Players’ Tribune that he is opting out of his contract to be a free agent. pic.twitter.com/k9j2Qls6TP
— The Players’ Tribune (@PlayersTribune) June 27, 2015
There is no question that any team in this league would be happy to take Paul Pierce off their hands, but there are only 4-5 real suitors in the NBA for him. Teams include the Wizards, Clippers, Celtics, Lakers and a deep sleeper would be the Toronto Raptors. The Wizards do have Otto Porter to fill Pierces void (after his great Playoff help), but Pierce’s leadership and attitude is what the Wizards need. The Clippers seem to be the top suitor, because of Pierce’s hometown Los Angeles. The Celtics have promised Kevin Love a duo of Robin Lopez and Paul Pierce. The Raptors and all their fans absolutely hate Pierce, but they would love him if he played for Toronto. A guy who never quits, is clutch, and a leader. The Raptors probably won’t sign him, but I’m hoping there is more of a chance than there actually is.
