Throughout the playoffs this past season the Celtics had a luxury most teams could not afford. A player who could slow the opposing team’s superstar, no matter the situation.
Tony Allen was vital in the Celtics playoff run. He offered rest to Paul Pierce and Ray Allen, and slowed the likes LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Kobe Bryant, and on a lesser scale, Vince Carter.
Offensively, Allen was a player who could slash to the basket and on occasion finish with emphasis. While he is not nearly an offensive threat, he was a serviceable 4th or 5th option.
TA is a unique player in that he gives a team defensive versatility.
Think of him like Darelle Revis on the New York Jets.
The Jets have the capability to stick Revis 1-on-1 with any wide receiver in the NFL, knowing that Revis will succeed. This allows them to send blitzes to rush the quarterback or double cover other offensive threats.
Allen allowed the Celtics to do the same. In the Finals, he covered Kobe Bryant. While Bryant still put up points, Ray Allen and Tony Allen made him take many shots which were very much forced.
This lead to Kobe’ ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NBA
Article written by Akash A
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