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?
7 reader comments to “Ray Allen? Ainge and C’s had better be right”
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1Colin said:
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.
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3Colin said:
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.
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5Bob Cobb said:
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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