The NBA Free Agents 2014 are asserting their leverage, but some of them have lost a lot of that. Paul Pierce used to be one of the top players in the league, being the heart and soul of a former champion team. Now, he needs to rely on sentiment to join a team.

Paul Pierce can still get a decent offer, but way below what he used to get. It's obvious that his best years are behind him though. And that's precisely why Paul Pierce is not just taking the offers on the table. From ESPN: "Pierce isn't hurting for money by any means. But the Nets have the advantage of owning his Bird Rights and can pay Pierce more than any other suitor. It's possible the Nets could offer Pierce a one-year deal worth $9 million or more to keep him in Brooklyn. But it's likely going to take more than money to keep The Truth."

At the twilight of his career, a title chase is on his mind. "Pierce could have already decided that his chances of winning one more title are better off somewhere else. As expected, Pierce didn't take the loss to Miami well and it could take a few more weeks for the sting to wear off."

In that case, a transfer to his hometown LA for the Clippers, who were two wins short (or some would contend, two botched calls short) of reaching the Western Conference Finals would be the viable option. However, the Clips have limited money to offer. Would it matter to Pierce? Perhaps a reunion with former Celtics coach Doc Rivers would entice him.

One other factor could be sentimentality. ESPN states: "Pierce still has a lot of Boston in his blood. He spoke about the possibility of returning to Boston someday toward the end of his career. If Danny Ainge makes some blockbuster moves to get Boston back in contention, Pierce could always return to Boston. But the Celtics would have to make some serious moves first."

Will he wait for the Celtics to become a contender? Or will he choose to return now?