Doc wants Ray Allen back

[radiohead]

Here's the link:

http://www.boston.com/sports/basketball/celtics/extras/celtics_blog/2010/06/doc_rivers_want.html

So does this mean that Doc is coming back to coach next season as well? This also puts into perspective why the Celtics let Thibs go just like that, probably knowing that Doc was gonna be back anyway.

[furball]

I don't think it means he's staying.  He could be but this doesn't garuntee it.  He has to say he wants him back.  He can't say he doesn't want him anymore and he can't say "What do I care, I'll be long gone".  It's the middle of the finals, he has to say the right things, keep everyone happy and stay away from contraversy

[Bahku]

I don't think this infers that Doc has made a decision yet about coming back ... I think he'll continue with his regular plan and make the decision over the off-season. I love that the Celtics want Ray back, though ... I would be very upset if Ray didn't retire as a Boston Celtic, and I think they should do whatever they need to in order to secure a contract with him.

[CoachBo]

Actually, if Doc wasn't coming back why address this at all? No need.

I do think it's a signal - for both of them.

[More Banners]

I think the only thing that's clear is that Doc ALWAYS says he likes his team and players, almost without exception, whether they play, or even dress, or not.

But I also thing that, truly, Doc knows how lucky he is to have had the opportunity to coach this team for the last three years.  I'm sure he feels loyalty to the guys, as they feel toward him.  Winning sort of brings people together...

[Roy Hobbs]

I want Ray back, too.

Let's hope Danny and Wyc feel the same way.  I have a feeling that they will.

[CoachBo]

Beyond a bid to get a bit younger on the wing, I wouldn't expect any big changes going into next year.

[Drucci]

I want Ray back, too.

Let's hope Danny and Wyc feel the same way.  I have a feeling that they will.

I want him back too but I'm wondering if Ray's Finals production (or lack thereof) will make them change their minds or at least reassess the question of re-signing him. There are at least 2 more games to be played and they will be probably more enclined to re-sign him if we win the title, but still, interesting question.

[thirstyboots18]

Beyond a bid to get a bit younger on the wing, I wouldn't expect any big changes going into next year.

I agree, Coach Bo...I hope most changes take place on the bench.  I love Scal but I think he is gone, and maybe Sheldon and Marquis...they were terrific early in the year, but Doc doesn't seem to have much trust in them.  After seeing Bynum and Gasol playing together on the Lakers I would hope for a little more length up front, too. Sheed has been good  on other bigs during the playoffs but he isn't getting any younger, either.

[Cman]

Beyond a bid to get a bit younger on the wing, I wouldn't expect any big changes going into next year.

Agreed.  I expect the starting 5 to be the same, and two of the first three off the bench to be the same (BBD, Sheed).  The key to the offseason IMO is using the MLE wisely to get a 2/3 type player for off the bench.

In the past I had been leaning towards TA coming back, and so off the bench would a 3/4 type player.  But one thing that has seemed to work really well for the Cs is Ray Allen with the second unit.  I think Ray could transition nicely to a 6th man after about a year more of starting (wouldn't that be deadly to have RA come off the bench and hit some key 3s?), in which case the key for the offseason is finding someone who can come off bench for Ray initially, but eventually start at the 2, but also be someone who can spell PP for periods of time.

It's a tall order, but.... that's why they pay DA the big bucks.  They thought M. Daniels would be this guy, but clearly he isn't.

[thirstyboots18]

Ever since anyone had the audacity to think about trading Ray Allen, I have been crying for him to retire a Celtic after coming off the bench for a couple years and getting a couple more rings!  I think he would be an awesome sixth man...can't think of anyone who could fill the roll better.

[LB3533]

Ray Allen can still be a productive and efficient Starter for 3-4 more years.

Especially if he is not used in a primary offensive role.

I don't see the benefit of sending Ray to the bench if he can still get it done as a Starter.

[thirstyboots18]

Ray Allen can still be a productive and efficient Starter for 3-4 more years.

Especially if he is not used in a primary offensive role.

I don't see the benefit of sending Ray to the bench if he can still get it done as a Starter.

I agree again, and have said that in past posts...should have reiterated, I guess.  I have grandiose ideas sometimes...for example, I would love to have Chauncy Billips back up Rondo (I have loved Chauncy since he was a Celtic before)...of course, Chauncy is still a starter and that would be down the road too.  Sometimes I say things quickly not realizing that others are not following the same mental paths that I am,  .   Sorry.

[Weird Facts]

Doc isn't going to say he doesnt want Ray Allen back.

You really can't read into this stuff too much.
Someone probably asked him if he'd like to have Ray back & thats his response.

So - I'd say we'll have no idea what will happen until that time comes.

[Cman]

Doc isn't going to say he doesnt want Ray Allen back.

You really can't read into this stuff too much.
Someone probably asked him if he'd like to have Ray back & thats his response.

So - I'd say we'll have no idea what will happen until that time comes.

TP.  But its still pretty fun to dissect all this stuff, right?