Raymond Felton posted a double-double in his return to the starting lineup last night, as his 11 points and 10 assists helped earn the Trail Blazers a home victory. After the game, Felton got some questions about his play on the court, but also talked plenty about the trade rumors surrounding him as March 15th approaches. The point guard told reporters, including Joe Freeman of the Oregonian, that he'd like to remain a Blazer for at least the rest of the season (Twitter link).
"I still like this team that we have," Felton said. "We have a young team, a lot of young guys that can really play. I definitely still want to be here."
Having been part of the Carmelo Anthony blockbuster at last year's deadline and then traded again in June, Felton is no stranger to trade rumors. The 27-year-old acknowledged that bouncing from team to team can be frustrating, but said that he was determined not to let the whispers bother him.
"I do understand it's a business," Felton told reporters, including Ben Golliver of Blazer's Edge. "I just don't worry about it. I see guys go through it, stressed out about trade rumors. I'm not going to be that guy. Oh yeah, it bothers them real bad. It's not going to be me."
The Lakers have reportedly engaged in "exploratory talks" with the Blazers about the possibility of acquiring Felton, who was profiled as a trade candidate by Hoops Rumors' Chuck Myron last week.