The questions going into the season was "who will replace James Posey?" The answer could very well be Tony Allen.

During the preseason Allen averaged 11.8 points per-game with huge outputs vs. the Nets (32 points) and the Cavs (25points). Allen, who was drafted 25th overall out of Oklahoma State in 2004, has became the guard they wanted him to be.

Tony Allen has played a major part this preseason as the departure of James Posey was a huge obstacle to overcome. Last season and postseason James Posey got most of the playing time off the bench, with him now in New Orleans Allen makes a legitimate case.

"He attacks off the dribble, he's aggressive, and he's tough to guard," Doc Rivers has said about Allen. Allen, who entered last season coming off a left knee injury, has shown that the injury isn't affecting his play this season.

With the Celtics opening the season Oct. 28th at the TD Banknorth Garden against the Cavs, and the 17th banner to be hung in the rafters, many questions will be answered.

Is Tony Allen the sixth-man? Will he be the Manu Ginobili for the Celtics? Only time will tell, but from the looks of it Allen has what it takes to be part of the "Big Four" in the near future.

You're currently logged into Facebook

Do you want to share your Bleacher Report activity on Facebook?