I’m here to take a look at how it will effect the Pacers and the rest of the league as a whole. An injury like this sends shockwaves throughout the league, with many teams feeling the ripples. The Celtics were not in contention to challenge the top dogs in the East. They’re stars were not on the trading block, per se, but given their ages and where the team is headed, that might not last long. Guys like Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett are not in places in their careers where they can sit around and wait for the Celtics to recharge. They’re both closer to retirement than they’d admit and can’t afford to stay on a team that will be the 6 seed in the East until 2016.

Obviously, every team in the NBA could find a place fora  future Hall of Famer, but some teams have bigger needs than others. Scrolling through the list of potential playoff teams, the Milwaukee Bucks in the East and the Golden State Warriors in the West. Both teams are in playoff position and get low production from the small forward position. That’s where Paul Pierce would be valuable. I don’t know if either team will make a move, or would be willing to pay the price to acquire Pierce, but those are the places he’d fit.

As for Garnett, it looks like the best place, on paper, for him would be Brooklyn. They’ve had a rotating door at the power forward spot,so KG would fill that need. Since the move to Brooklyn, the Nets have not been shy about promoting the crosstown rivalry with the Knicks, and adding known Knick hater Kevin Garnett would make tons of sense.

I’m not saying this is going to happen. Hell, I’d actually bet against it because that’s just the way pro sports work. But if those two stars go anywhere those scenarios make the most sense. the Pacers aren’t likely to be involved in any of these moves, but they could see their direct competitors improve. All in all, the Rondo injury cripples one Eastern conference foe, but could bolster a number of squads that stand in Indiana’s way.

Jun 21 2012; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Heat small forward LeBron James (6) lays the ball up past Oklahoma City Thunder power forward Nick Collison (4) and James Harden (13) during the fourth quarter of game five in the 2012 NBA Finals at the American Airlines Arena. The Heat defeated the Thunder 121-106. Mandatory Credit: Robert Mayer-US PRESSWIRE

What can I say about Lebron James? He’s the most complete player around right now.  He can dominate on offense, play any position asked, more impressive as a defender than I’ve realized, and is truly a floor general out there.  That covers it right?  He’s know got the NBA Championship marked off his list, so what more could he do?  Win another championship is what critics will say.  I think he’s a guy that I love to hate, but can’t discredit what he can do.

Paul Pierce

Jun 9, 2012; Miami, FL, USA; Boston Celtics small forward Paul Pierce (34) shoots a three point shot against the Miami Heat during the second quarter in game seven of the 2012 NBA Eastern Conference finals at the American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Robert Mayer-US PRESSWIRE

Another one of those guys I can’t stand in the NBA, but he’s definitely good.  He can score at will when he wants to. He’s got a good looking shot.  He goes out and gives it his all.  You know what you’ll get with Pierce, which is great.

Carmelo Anthony

Apr. 8, 2012; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks small forward Carmelo Anthony (7) drives past Chicago Bulls forward Taj Gibson (22) during the second half at Madison Square Garden. Knicks won in overtime 100-99. Mandatory Credit: Debby Wong-US PRESSWIRE

And another one of those I don’t like him players.  I don’t think he’s that great, but for his position and his offensive power, it works.  I think he doesn’t look for teammates enough, but that’s another issue. If there’s a shot to take at the end, you know he’s a great option.

Kevin Durant

Jun 21, 2012; Miami, FL, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder small forward Kevin Durant (35) drives to the basket against Miami Heat power forward Udonis Haslem (40) during the second quarter of game five in the 2012 NBA Finals at the American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Robert Mayer-US PRESSWIRE

Finally a player I like.  Kevin Durant does things the right way.  He signed an extension with the Thunder last summer, and guess what he puts it on twitter.  No big production out of it, just a simple I’m staying in Oklahoma City.  He’s been developing that killer instinct that players need, and the great players want.  He’s a force to be reckon with at the end of a game.  You know to give him the ball and let him win the game  for you.