If the “where there’s smoke, there’s fire” adage pertains to NBA trade rumors, the Boston Celtics indeed are making a push to retain the services of Michael Beasley.*

Like many reporters before him, Ken Berger asserts that Boston is among the teams interested in acquiring Beasley from the Minnesota Timberwolves.

It’s no secret that Minnesota is likely to trade Michael Beasley, with the most interested potential suitors being the Boston, the Lakers and Orlando. The Magic are pursuing multiple avenues in an attempt to improve the team in the hopes that a long playoff run could persuade Howard to stay. If Orlando holds off on trading Howard at the deadline, sources say Beasley could be a viable piece for the Nets to add as they try to upgrade their talent to make the team more attractive to Howard and Deron Williams.

If the Celtics could somehow acquire Beasley straight up for Jermaine O’Neal (I can hear Bill Simmons screaming “KAHNNNNN!!!!!!” now), I’m on board. Any time you can trade a cardboard cutout for a young talent with a very similar contract, you have to do it. (Note: If that trade ever could have happened, which I doubt, O’Neal’s injury probably squashed the chances.)

But adding draft picks makes things dicey. Beasley has a lot of talent. He’s also ill-equipped to exist in a team setting. His contract is expiring, which is nice, but why waste a draft pick or two on a truly flawed player who might leave as early as this summer?

I understand why people would want to take a flier on Beasley. He’s gifted. But I wouldn’t be thrilled about adding him unless Kahn loses his scruples and dumps Beasley straight up for JO. Not likely. Next rumor, please.

*(I didn’t realize the irony of using the term “smoke” in a Michael Beasley lead until re-reading this post. Really. Promise.)