Clippers release PG Sam Cassell

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 28 (UPI) -- The Los Angeles Clippers released veteran point guard Sam Cassell late Thursday and various reports said he could be headed to the Boston Celtics.

The 15-year veteran is averaging 12.8 points, 4.7 assists and nearly three rebounds per game in 38 contests this season. He has missed 12 games because of a strained left calf and had been seeking his release in hopes of joining an NBA contender.

"After weighing all of the options and after conversations with Sam we believe this is the best solution for this team," Vice President of Basketball Operations Elgin Baylor said on the Clippers' Web site. "We know and appreciate the many contributions Sam made during the last three years, and we wish him nothing but the best."

His most productive season with the Clippers came in the 2005-06 campaign when he averaged 17.2 points and 6.3 assists in 78 contests.

His career averages are 15.9 points and 6.1 assists in 976 games.