With the trade of Sam Cassell to the Kings, the Celtics have opened up a roster spot that could be offered to Stephon Marbury.

The Knicks may be holding on to Marbury with a last-ditch effort to deal the exiled point guard before Thursday's trade deadline.  Failing that, buyout negotiations could begin again.  

It is unclear whether Marbury would be willing to take a salary reduction sufficient to persuade the Knicks to let him play with another team this season.  Marbury has so far refused to offer more than a $1 million giveback.