The most interesting aspect of trade deadline week for the Celtics has been the realization that some teams believe what they read in the papers. That?s caused a few clubs to call the Celts and inquire about the availability of Paul Pierce.

According to one source out this way, a Western Conference general manager was surprised at the brevity of the discussion when Pierce?s name was raised. Said another team leader: ?I think teams believe they can get (Pierce) by offering a bunch of stuff, but I don?t think he?s going anywhere.?

As of right now, the Celts aren?t moving anyone. That could change if director of basketball operations Danny Ainge is offered the moon, but the team seems committed to giving its core some time to develop. That?s more than fine with Doc Rivers.

?I?ll be glad when it?s past,? he said of tomorrow?s NBA trade deadline. ?We need to make improvements, but we need to stay pat at the same time right now. I mean, the improvements will be made ? probably not right now, but you never can say never. But we have a game plan. We know where we want to go, and we like our team right now."