Danny Ainge to step down from Celtics executive role

Boston Celtics President of Basketball Operations Danny Ainge is seriously considering his future with the franchise and could make a decision to step down, sources tell ESPN.

Source: Adrian Wojnarowski/ESPN

ANALYSIS: This is a bombshell rumor one day after the Celtics lose to Brooklyn in the first round. Ainge has been with the franchise in an executive role since 2003, and one Executive of the Year in 2007-08 after guiding the Celtics to an NBA title. He orchestrated the Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett blockbuster trade to Brooklyn, Boston's acquisition of Jayson Tatum in the NBA draft, and the Isaiah Thomas trade for Kyrie Irving.

It remains to be seen if Ainge will step down, or who potential replacements for his position might be. But according to Clevis Murray of The Athletic, the Utah Jazz could be a potential landing spot for Ainge if he moves on.

UPDATE: Ainge decided to step down, and he'll be replaced by Brad Stevens.