Celtics to exercise option on G Rondo

Oct 15, 2008 - 7:29 PM BOSTON (Ticker) -- The defending champion Boston Celtics plan to exercise their $2.9 million option on point guard Rajon Rondo for the 2009-10 season.

Celtics general manager Danny Ainge told the Boston Globe that the team will pick up Rondo's option before the teams opens the regular season on October 28 against Cleveland.

"He's made great progress," Ainge said. "He's a strong point guard on a championship team. He's come a long way. He has sort of a love for the game of basketball."

Rondo, 22, averaged 10.6 points, 5.1 assists and 1.7 steals last season, his second with the Celtics. He also played well in Boston's six-game victory over the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA Finals, contributing 9.7 points and 6.7 assists.

"It makes me feel good they still want me," Rondo told the Globe. "It feels good to know that someone still wants you."

Rondo will be eligible for a long-term deal next summer after completing his initial contract with the Celtics. He would become a free agent following the 2009-10 season.