The Celtics' Paul Pierce said he is unconcerned about trade rumors that involve him. ''I've heard them for the last couple of years now," he said.

''I think it only bothers you if you let it get to you. It's something I really don't think about and I think players should not worry about things that they can't control. People are going to make up rumors about you that are not even related to basketball, and there's nothing you can do about it. You're in the limelight, you're a target, it's business. You have to be prepared for it."