Jason Collins understood the situation, but he didn't want to leave the Boston Celtics when they traded him to the Washington Wizards for Jordan Crawford in February.
The injury-plagued Celtics were in need of backcourt help.
"I understand; they understand," Collins said. "With the injuries they had, they definitely needed another scorer. Jordan Crawford, he's definitely capable of doing that. I was last on the list, so it's part of the business."
Collins declined to comment when asked if he sought a buyout in order to finish his career with a contender, but said he would "definitely" consider signing with Boston next season.
"Might put a no-trade clause in there," Collins joked. "What an honor it was to play for a great organization that has so much history. Great group of guys in that locker room. The leadership with Doc, [Kevin Garnett] and [Paul] Pierce. Nothing but good memories."
