Paul Pierce is lobbying for his veteran point guard Gary Payton to remain with the Celtics for the remainder of the season.

``I think it would really hurt us. He's been a leader on and off the court. It'd be tough on us to make the playoffs if we trade him. We've got Marcus (Banks) and Delonte (West), but I don't know how ready they are to fill his shoes right now. I think they still need a little more seasoning.''