The Celtics wrapped up most of their roster building this week. Boston secured Ray Allen to complete the return of the Big 3, as well as adding Jermaine O'Neal to help soften the burden left by Kendrick Perkins' injury. Now, the C's must fill out the rest of the bench and hope that their veteran-laden crew can make another run for an NBA title.
Allen quickly abolished any notion that he would leave Boston for another contender, signing with the Celtics for two more years at $10 million per season. Even though Miami, Chicago, New York and a few other possible contenders also would have vied for his services, Allen chose to stay where he won his one and only ring.
The two year commitment is perfect for Boston as well. It leaves his contract expiring at the same time as that of Kevin Garnett and will provide the Celtics an opportunity to have salary cap space in that offseason. The money also matches up well as Allen still appears to have some gas left in the tank thanks to his vigorous workout regimine, and is still one of the top shooters in the game.
O'Neal joins the team for the mid-level exception, which will pay him about $5.7 million this season. His production took a major dive after a few injury plagued seasons. Last year in Miami, O'Neal averaged 14 points and 7 rebounds in a little less than 30 minutes a game. However, he was an achilles heel for the team in the first round loss to the Celtics.
Boston would constantly leave him alone 15 feet from the hoop and further. While the O'Neal of yester-year would drain those easy open looks, O'Neal of last season couldn't hit water if he fell out of a boat. The Celtics will have to hope that he can regain some of his form with a little less pressure mounted on his shoulders.
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