I'm getting the impression that Ainge might not be willing to include Tatum in an offer. He could declare Irving, Tatum and Horford as untouchable.
That fits his M.O. When Irving came available he made it clear that neither Brown or Tatum could be discussed.
And while Davis is a bigger star than Irving, it was balsy to state that those youngsters would not be in play for a player of Irving's caliber.
At that time, Tatum was a rookie without NBA experience and Brown wasn't even a starter (back-up of Crowder).
And I believe Ainge has Irving-Tatum-Davis (guard-wing-big), three (future) superstars as a core on his mind.
He'll trade almost anybody else and combine a huge package, but he sticks with what they view as the non-expendables.
On the other hand, Ainge has a history of surprising everybody
That's not what I want though. I'm fine with giving up Tatum + assets (but not Brown or Smart as well).
And I am afraid that playing hard to get could backfire at some point and that might be right now.
What do you guys think? Is it a certainty that Tatum goes to New Orleans if they make a deal with Boston for Davis?
(I know that everybody here insists on Tatum (and then some
) and rightfully so i.m.o., so don't shoot the messenger)