Our leading playoff scorer is... (Ray Allen)

[Drucci]

I heard in the postgame analysis that the Celtics are 5-0 in the playoffs when Ray scores 18 points or more... so our success is critically linked to Ray's offensive performances.

I agree that Ray has been playing his best basketball as a Celtic in the 2nd half of the season and in these playoffs, even better than in the Finals in 2008 (more consistent and on the longer stretch) or than against Chicago last year, even when he exploded for 53 points (if I recall the number correctly).

He played with a hamstring injury against Orlando last year, it affected his play, but also this year he is playing with better teammates (Rondo has improved and KG is back) so it helps him get better shots.

Also, he is in great shape, as always, but Doc's strategy of limiting his minutes during the season and keeping him fresh from February to April paid off in my opinion. Last year, at this point Ray played with all the fatigue and common injuries of playing about 43 minutes per game in the 2nd half of the season, not to mention the fatigue of the 7 game series and multiple OT against Chicago. Big difference for a 34 year old shooting guard.

[misha]

I love everything about Ray. His shooting, professionalism, movement, basketball IQ, passing... Players like him are an extinct species and a very important asset to every team. He can play till very late 30's like Reggie, and the question about re-signing him is a no-brainer for me.

[PosImpos]

Ray was great today.  I was especially impressed by his ability to score so many points on so many layups, drives, and free throws instead of mostly perimeter shots.  If Ray is taking it inside and drawing fouls, we're in good shape.

As long as Ray is healthy and running around quick, there isn't anybody on the Magic who can guard him except maybe Redick who is built similarly, though shorter.

If SVG doesn't start Redick next game my opinion of him will be significantly lowered; Barnes clearly couldn't keep up with Ray, while Redick gave him trouble towards the end.  I think Ray can definitely overcome it, though.  Redick is a solid but not great defender.

[twinbree]

Ray's been great in these playoffs but even more so yesterday. His moves to the basket were so smooth and made the free throws to seal the game. Good job to KG quickly inbounding the ball to him in the confusion after Jameer's tip-in. I still can't believe how open he was.