The Celtics have said they wish to keep general manager Chris Wallace, but it has become clear management would be happier if he found suitable employment elsewhere. Wallace is scheduled to make more than $700,000 per season on a three-year deal that kicks in this offseason, and that price is high for a No. 2 man - particularly with Danny Ainge starting a three-year contract of his own at $3 million per season.

Ainge returned to Phoenix Thursday without meeting face-to-face with Wallace, who returned from scouting in Spain that day. The two spoke by phone and will meet when Ainge gets back to town Monday.

Ainge said he is eager to get on the same page with Wallace in regard to draft prospects.