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Ray Allen? Ainge and C’s had better be right

Jun 28th, 2007 by Bill Burt

I’m confused. Ray Allen is a shooting guard, a great one. Paul Pierce is a shooting forward, probably a great one. Is this the veteran the Celtics believe will lead them to two levels from where they are now?

I hope so.

This is a bold move and I like bold moves. But they had better work. This will make the Celtics offense better, which was a major problem, especially when Pierce fell to injury. But will it make the team better?

In terms of veterans who might have been available, including Kobe Bryant and Kevin Garnett, this is definitely in the second tier variety.

True, Allen’s average has gone up in each of the last four seasons … 23.0, 23.9, 25.1 and 26. 4 … but he turns 32 in July and is coming off season-ending spur surgery to his ankle.

The positives: Allen gives Pierce some pressure relief on the offensive side of the court. He is a prolific scorer. And with the improvement of Al Jefferson, open 3’s could be available for Allen.

The negatives: Allen always seems to be on a losing team. Scoring is great, but scoring and passing is better (4.1 assists is OK, but …). He doesn’t really aid the paint, and the need for rebounding.

I’m open to those who believe this is a good deal.

If someone can convince me of 52 wins next season, I might buy it. But I don’t think so.

What do you think?

Posted in Celtics | Comments

  • Colin
    Last night, the Celtics went from also-rans in a constant state of rebuilding to favorites for the Atlantic Division championship. What other teams made such a dramatic leap? I like the trade a lot, especially because the Celtics didn't have to give up Al Jefferson or Rajon Rondo. They're still not going to be a championship contender any time soon, but this is a great step in the right direction.
  • Colin, I wish I could say I disagree. I have never been a big fan of Ray Allen. He's a one-trick pony, a GREAT shooter. I heard Doc Rivers response, that when Pierce is out of the game, they have a legit scorer in the game, and I agree. I just don't see the all-around game. I could be wrong. In fact, I hope I am. I just don't see this trade making them a lot better.
    I'm still wondering if there is another trade in the works. A source close to the Celts told me no, but I feel like it could happen.
  • Colin
    He may very well be a one-trick pony, but most guys on the Celts are no-trick ponies, so it's a big upgrade. His presence on the perimeter will make it a lot easier to get the ball inside to Jefferson and for Pierce to drive the lane. Also, now Boston has one more last-shot option when it comes down to the closing seconds of a close game.
  • Colin
    I like your passion. Ray Allen said all of the right things -- but didn't Julio Lugo say the right things, too? Anyway, I'm open to being wrong (I'd say, lifetime I'm about 45 percent correct, which means I'm a loser in Vegas).
    What I like is that Allen is pro's pro. He's intelligent. He's got a classy way about him. Maybe he'll even rub off on Pierce.
    As for the last shot, the Celts desperately need another option. I believe the "last shot" has turned out being a weakness for Pierce and the C's. How many times did we see Pierce get off a bad shot with 15 seconds remaining on the clock and holding the ball till the last second?
    But this is not a good deal unless the Celts flirt with 50 wins.
    Nice argument. You should be a lawyer ...
  • Bob Cobb
    Why do you always compare the Celtics to the Patriots and the Red Sox?

    And what does "He’s intelligent. He’s got a classy way about him. Maybe he’ll even rub off on Pierce." Mean?
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