Desperation. McHale "had" to get something for Garnett. Simple as that.
Ainge does not "have" to get anything for Rondo. He can give him the max deal if he wants in 2015. He can trade him this summer. Ainge is in the driver's seat for a little while anyway.
Ainge needs someone desperate. The Lakers are desperate. Rondo IMO is a good fit in LA. Be reminded the Lakers really want the kid which puts them in the "overpay." column. Gasol to someone for a #1 (long shot). LA #1 pick and another #1 pick and salaries for Rondo.
This is a good way to value Rondo. A team that truly wants him. Bryant wants him on the team...etc. Say the fakers get still another #1...they offer both #1's to Ainge without blinking. They know that a 19 year old isn't going to bring them anywhere soon.
This is the deal Rondo would take as LA will give him max money and he gets to the playoffs...maybe.
Should Ainge trade Rondo to the Lakers for #1's?
I am in the "horse for a horse" group. Lakers don't really have an all star for our all star thus, no. I am against trading Rondo for 19 year olds.
Sac is desperate to be viable in west, they offer the world for Rondo...Rondo sez "no I won't re-sign 2015."
So, WT heck is he saying with that? "I want to stay here and be lousy for the next couple of years..."
"I want to test free agency?"
If the latter is the case the language would be "trade me while I still can get you something in return..."
Every competent GM has a potential "Rondo scenario" in front of him now. He has to, it is his job. Rondo brings his team to the next level. A GM must always work to make his team better.
Hope Rajon remains in Green as I have seen nothing, but kids in return....kids don't win big games, they struggle, they develop, they might be good. No thanks.