Where Will Nate Land?

As the New York Knicks reported today that Nate Robinson would sit out with flu-like symptoms, rumors swirled as media reports said that New York was close to trading the backup guard to the Boston Celtics.

Celtics guard Eddie House told the media Wednesday that he could possibly be part of the deal.

"I was talking with my agent and there's a strong possibility that I'll be traded [Thursday] to New York," House said. "With that being said, I've always had a bond with these guys. I love playing with [the Celtics], but at the end of the day, it's a business. The Celtics feel like they're a better team with the guy they're trying to get. I gotta move on, that's what it is. I'm here at practice today, I'm a basketball player, I'm going to do what I love to do. Then [Thursday] I'll figure out what's going to happen.

"At the end of the day, you can't control it. It's out of my hands -- it's never been in my hands. Wherever I go, if I go to New York, I'll play two months, try to play real strong basketball, get some wins with those guys, and make a good account for me for free agency."

Two sources said Wednesday the Knicks and the Celtics are in advanced talks, but there was no finalized deal. 

One holdup in the deal could be that House's $2.8 million contract does not match with that of Robinson's, which is $2.08 million. Thus, a one-for-one swap could not be completed, and something else would have to be added to the deal. Another rumor added that the Celtics could possibly add in a second-round pick.

A source close to House told the Globe that House wasn't mentioned prominently in the deal until late Tuesday.

The 25-year-old Robinson would back up starting point guard Rajon Rondo if dealt to the Celtics and is averaging 13.2 points and 3.7 assists per game in New York. He was fined by the NBA earlier this season after his agent told reporters he had asked the Knicks to trade his client.

In his third season in Boston, the 31-year-old House is averaging 7.1 points per game off the bench for the Celtics.

House expressed excitement about potentially reconnecting with Knicks coach Mike D'Antoni, whom he played for in Phoenix.

"That helps a lot," House said. "I know the coaching staff, I know the system, I know the plays they run. I know my style fits right in. I'm feeling good right now about the way I'm playing. It's going to be a good thing. You have to take it like that.

"Nothing surprises me in this league. You never know what can happen. I take it all in stride. It had to be for a reason. Whatever that reason is."