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Celtics' Lee struggling to accept bench role, hasn't requested trade

Mark L. Baer / USA TODAY Sports

It's not easy being green.

When the Boston Celtics acquired power forward David Lee, a two-time All-Star and NBA champion, he became part of a crowded frontcourt already consisting of Jared Sullinger, Kelly Olynyk, Amir Johnson, Tyler Zeller, and Jonas Jerebko.

In his first season in Boston, Lee has seen the least amount of playing time throughout his 11 years in the league (15.7 minutes per game, versus a career average of 30.9). The 6-foot-9 forward even received consecutive DNP-CDs in the team's previous two games.

The trend has become increasingly frustrating for the Florida alumnus.

"Coach came to me and said we're going to try and go small at the four, which means Kelly (Olynyk) and Jonas (Jerebko)," Lee told MassLive.com's Jay King.

Lee said he expressed his dissatisfaction over the benching with head coach Brad Stevens. "That was his theory on some changes he wanted to make after us losing a couple of games, so I told him while I disagree with it, I also told him he's the coach and can choose to do that," Lee said.

Lee is not one for making waves when it comes to riding the pine - he remained professional despite being used sparingly throughout the Golden State Warriors' triumphant run through last year's playoffs. He did, however, note the difference in circumstances as they pertain to his current situation in Boston.

"Even last year I didn't accept that, and last year was way different," he added. "It was more of an injury-based thing where I got injured to start the year and came back. This situation is a bit more frustrating, and by no means am I accepting of the situation, and that's the first thing that I told Brad."

Regardless of his personal feelings, Lee said he'll continue to remain a positive force in the Celtics' locker room and hasn't thought about requesting a trade in search of more playing time.

"We'll see moving forward how permanent this is," Lee said Wednesday. "Obviously I'm very confident I can help a team win. I'd love for that to be the Boston Celtics. So no, I haven't spoken about that. I haven't really thought about that yet. Right now it's about continuing to be ready, and if that was talked about it would be between my agent, the Celtics and other teams.

"At this point I'm excited to get back on the floor and play minutes for the Celtics, and hopefully that will be tomorrow night, and play minutes, and help us win the game."

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