Marcus Banks has finally found a place for himself with the Celtics.

That it happens to be a seat at the end of the bench does not exactly make him happy. But an older, wiser Banks will not come out and say it. He talks instead about helping the team, though he logged just 8 minutes in Wednesday night's win over Minnesota and did not play because of a coach's decision in the win over New Jersey Friday night. It was his second DNP-CD this season. The first came last Monday at Detroit.

He added just 8 minutes in last night's 103-83 blowout loss, getting 1 point and 1 assist.

Banks also has heard his name once again tossed about in trade talk. The Celtics actually moved Banks to the Lakers in the Gary Payton trade after the 2003-04 season, but when the deal was reworked, Banks came back to Boston.

''Right now, I believe that everybody in the organization knows what I can do," said Banks. ''Basically, it's just about getting back out there and having fun. [The trade talk] doesn't bother me at all. Not at all.

''I really wasn't bothered with [the Lakers deal]. If it happens, fine. If it doesn't, fine. I'm a professional about my job and I'm ready to take on whatever obstacles are in front of me."