After a productive season which included a vicious facial of Dwyane Wade that had me convinced the Boston Celtics were headed to the NBA Finals (tears), Brandon Bass wants to return to the Boston Celtics next year. (ESPN Boston)

“I do (expect to be in Boston). I would love to be back here,” Bass said after Boston’s 101-88 Game 7 loss to the Heat at AmericanAirlines Arena. “The fans (in Boston) are unbelievable. I think for any player, this organization is the organization that you want to play for.”

If Bass plays the 2012-13 season under his existing player option ($4 million), Danny Ainge might cry sweet tears of joy. But Bass would be dumber than Nate Robinson on a 1-on-3 fast break if he does.

The market for undersized, jump-shooting big men was set last offseason when Otis Smith forked over four years and $26 million to Glen Davis. If Bass settles for a dime less than that he’s either A) quite generous to whichever team with which he signs, or B) desperately in need of a new agent.