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As a refresher, free agency can come in either 2013 or 2014 for Pierce, and the timing is mostly out of his control. The Celtics hold a team option of more than $15 million for Pierce after this season. Should the team pick up his option, Pierce would be back for a 16th season in Boston and would not be eligible for free agency until the summer of 2014. Should the team decline the option by June 30, 2013, Pierce becomes a free agent immediately and the Celtics only need to pay the $5 million guaranteed portion of his contract.
Even if the Celtics decline Pierce's option, it does not mean his days in Boston are over. Pierce will be 35 years old at the end of this season, and the Celtics may determine that $15 million is a hefty price for a player that age. The team could decline his option and try to negotiate a new, cheaper deal to create payroll flexibility while allowing Pierce to finish his career with the Celtics.
Even if the Celtics decline Pierce's option, it does not mean his days in Boston are over. Pierce will be 35 years old at the end of this season, and the Celtics may determine that $15 million is a hefty price for a player that age. The team could decline his option and try to negotiate a new, cheaper deal to create payroll flexibility while allowing Pierce to finish his career with the Celtics.