Rajon Rondo wasn't thrilled that his name was mentioned in trade rumors this summer, but says that the Celtics still believe in him.

"I don't know," he told the Boston Herald of an uncertain summer. "I don't know. I don't know what the plan was this summer. It's like every year when they bring in a veteran guard in the season. That's a little kick, too.

"I know they still believe in me. I know that. And it might have been just to give me a little kick. But whatever it is, it's only to better our team. I don't think it's specifically directed to hurt me. It could be to get me to be more of a leader."

Rondo added that he knows he can get better, which should quell all talk about his future in Boston.

"I can get better," he said. "I've got to learn to listen to my teammates better. I think we all do, but it's starting with me as the point guard. I can be a better listener and be a lot more open on the court."