Ray Allen Rediscovers Shooting Touch in Win over Los Angeles Lakers

No one said that winning was pretty as evident in the Boston Celtics win over the Lakers last night. 

The Celtics stayed true to their nature by relinquishing an 11-point lead in the third quarter.  This time however the outcome was different thanks to Ray Allen's prolific shooting in the first three quarters. 

Ray Allen was finally able to exhale after Thursday's 3pm deadline and it showed in his play. Through it all he was a model citizen, he stayed healthy and logged the most minutes of the big three. His dunk and subsequent foul called on Shannon Brown showed the vehemence in his excitement; he had survived the trade rumours.

He even showed a renewed defensive zest by making the critical stop on Derek Fishers' desperation heave to preserve the victory. This is the Ray Allen the Celtics hope to see throughout the playoffs; the real decisions about his future will come after that.  

Danny Ainge understands that he will not have the money to offer a LeBron James, Dwayne Wade, Chris Bosh, and possibly even Joe Johnson. The real coup could come from the next level of stars that will be available. Boston has a bunch of expiring contracts and because of their recent success can possibly lure these free-agents.

Tony Allen, Brian Scalabrine, Shelden Williams, Marquis Daniels, Nate Robinson, Ray Allen, and Marcus Landry are all free agents in waiting. The Celtics are possibly only going to offer contracts to Ray Allen, Marquis Daniels, and Nate Robinson out of that group. Danny will give each a qualifying offer and spend the bulk of his time trying to find a younger more athletic shooting guard.

The Memphis Grizzlies let Rudy Gay's rookie contract expire and he will explore the open market. He has been the consummate pro as evident of Memphis' run to get into the playoffs and their ability to protect their homecourt. Ray might be able to convince him to come to Boston because of their University of Connecticut ties. Heck, Ray may even be willing to come of the bench to get him in Celtic green.

Memphis management made a shrewd move and received Ronnie Brewer from the Utah Jazz in a last minute deal. He is also a restricted free agent and may be insurance in case Rudy decides to leave.

Richard Jefferson has not been able to find his basketball groove in San Antonio. Gregg Popovich tried desperately to trade him but their were no takers for his services. The Western conference has been unkind to his East coast game. Jefferson would be an upgrade from Tony Allen. 

He is a very good defender and has had Finals experience. Don't be surprised if the San Antonio Spurs buy him out and the Boston Celtics make a run at  him.

Anthony Morrow of the Golden State warriors brings length and a great shooting stroke to the game. He also has the ability to stretch the defense and could be a great two guard to add to the second unit. This will allow Ray to get even more rest next year and he could mentor Morrow in the Celtic way.

Adam Morrison of the Los Angeles Lakers could be Brian Scalabrine's replacement; a spot up shooter with younger legs. He could also spell Ray Allen or Paul Pierce in a pinch.

John Salmons of the Milwaukee Bucks could finally fill the role that James Posey had, a solid defender who can stretch the defense with his shooting.

Chris Douglas-Roberts, Jarvis Hayes, and Bobby Simmons to name a few more. 

Danny Ainge has a tough decision to make next year but until then he will role the dice with Ray Allen's rediscovered shooting touch.