The Phoenix Suns continued their rebuilding project by waiving small forward Mickael Pietrus.

It was an obvious move, considering the Raptors had a trade to obtain Pietrus for a conditional second-round pick earlier this month, however, Toronto backed away due to the swingman’s damaged right knee.

Nonetheless, Danny Ainge could pick up the eight-year veteran, as he is leaning “heavily” towards signing with the Celtics, according to a league source.

The only caveat?

Pietrus must first clear waivers — that won’t happen until 6 p.m. Saturday — but it’s highly unlikely that any team will want to pick up the $5.3 million he is owed this season.

Ainge has expressed interest in acquiring Pietrus in the past and one league executive said that he would be “a great fit” for the Celtics.

“Without Jeff Green, they really don’t have an athletic wing player,” said an NBA scout. “Sasha (Pavlovic) has some athleticism, but he’s not in the same class as Pietrus. And Marquis (Daniels), he’s a solid player, but you wouldn’t consider him as an athletic wing guy.”

With Paul Pierce always battling injuries, along with Pietrus’ knee not being as troublesome as it once was, it looks like a match for a veteran team needing depth at the three-spot.

Furthermore, Pietrus’ agent, Bill McCandless told CSNNE.com that the Celtics would be on his short list of teams if he cleared waivers.