1990-91 Boston Celtics
Remembering the 29-5 Start
The Derek Smith watch may soon intensify into something of greater scrutiny.
Plans are in the making for Smith to fly into Boston next week to audition for the Celtics brain trust. Previous plans calling for the Celtics entourage to observe Smith in Cincinnati early next week were canceled.
A source said Smith very well could be signed and in uniform in two weeks. Other teams have expressed interest in Smith, but he has stated a preference for an Atlantic Division team, and with Philadelphia out of contention, that likely means Boston.
The Celtics remain tight-lipped about the whole thing -- coach Chris Ford put on his best Tass News Service face last night when asked for a comment. Basketball boss Dave Gavitt has admitted there is interest, which Smith reported the day before Thanksgiving. Robert Parish said, "If he's healthy, he definitely could help us."
Smith's agent, Ron Grinker, said yesterday that both sides have "a sincere interest in pursuing this" and have gone so far as to discuss the impact of Smith's arrival on Kevin Gamble's playing time. Gamble also is represented by Grinker.
"We have a sincere interest in Boston. Derek would be the perfect player for that team," Grinker said. "I have a concern that if it would impact Kevin in any way, it would not be appealing. But we are satisfied it would complement him."
Grinker said he would begin filming Smith's workouts today to assure people that the 29-year-old swingman is healthy. Grinker said Smith, who had knee surgery in early September to remove scar tissue, is pain-free.
Smith currently has therapy in the morning and works out in the afternoon. If all goes according to plan, the Celtics soon will get a sneak preview and then decide how great their interest really is.
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