Paul Pierce says he won't seek an extension with the Celtics

Paul Pierce is 34 years old and could be a free agent next summer for really the first time in his life. (He's under contract for 2013-14, but it's not guaranteed as a team option.)

He's played all 14 of his NBA seasons in Boston and while he's obviously one of the most loyal players to an organization in the league, he told the Boston Globe he's not looking for an extension with the Celtics that would guarantee he finishes his career there. He wants to keep all doors open.

“I think I am going to play this one out,” he said. “I want to see what it feels like to be a free agent for once in my life. I think I am going to play this one out. A lot can change in two years. My body [may not] be where I want it to be, I could retire, a lot of things could happen. I love the game. I made as much money as I possibly can. It's about winning a championship and if I feel like it's the right thing to do, maybe so [come back]. If I solidify my third year, maybe they opt out, so it's about keeping your options open.”

Pierce will be 35 after this season and with the window rapidly closing on the current core of the Celtics, he might be willing to pull a Ray Allen and hitch his wagon to another competing team. Because as Pierce said, he's made his money. It's about finishing up his career on top.

http://www.cbssports.com/nba/blog/eye-on-basketball/19733410/paul-pierce-says-he-won%27t-seek-an-extension-with-the-celtics