RoyHobbs wrote:Reasons this is a bad idea:
1) Ray Allen is the most clutch player on our team;
2) Ray Allen is having one of his most efficient seasons as a pro;
3) Despite being the focal point of his team's offense, Jason Richardson's stats are only slightly better than Allen's;
4) Ray Allen has been a better defender this season than Richardson;
5) Jason Richardson had major injury concerns coming into this year, and only averaged 16.0 ppg last year;
6) Jason Richardson's attitude has been questioned in the past, while Ray Allen is seen as a consummate professional;
7) Jason Richardson's game duplicates Paul Pierce's more than Allen's does.
Number 7 is completely spot on, as is the rest of the list. If anyone wants to break up the three or feel it needs improvement or wants to call someone a weak link, they aren't seeing how these players compliment each other and separately bring something unique to the table. Ray has been great and consistent for the Celtics as an all around player. He shoots well from all over, he can play the point, he handles the ball very well, he finishes, he passes, and he's even proving he can defend as well. I'm also willing to say he's hit more clutch baskets this season for the team than anyone else. If he's not, I bet it's close.
Sometimes I think fantasy leagues and highlight reels have taken away from the game in terms of gaining knowledgeable fans... There isn't even a big difference in their stats to begin with.... Ray simply doesn't shoot it as often... that's really the only reason he's scoring less... it would be a HUGE mistake to think Jason Richardson could do a better job overall.
The numbers aren't even that different on the court, but off the court, and in terms of leadership, there's no comparison... For example: Who do you think was the biggest factor that made Rondo a better shooter this year? Do you think Richardson would have worked all summer with Rondo on his shooting form? Besides, who would you rather learn from on shooting form and shooting drills anyway?