Thoughts/reasons behind it? Since the Philly game, he's averaged around 21ppg, and shot under 30% from behind the arc and 35% overall. Before that, he was averaged around 27ppg and his shot was off the charts. He's still getting his stats across the board, and he's still getting to the line, but his shot has really fallen off. Interesting to note he's getting to the line more often in this down period, as he compensates for his perimeter jumper not falling. Obviously fatigue may be an issue. Considering he's coming off bronchitis, and has played the second most minutes out of any player in the league (behind Jim Jackson), a drop off in production is probably expected, on top of a natural drop off anyway, as it would have been near impossible for him to keep those shooting numbers. Also, is his knee bothering him more than he's letting on? Hopefully Nate decides to introduce Flip sooner rather than later, so he can reduce Ray's minutes and save them for a playoff push.
The Sonics are perceived to be one of the best teams in the NBA right now and teams are really preparing to take away our strengths. Ray Allen is believed by all to be our best player so teams have been doing a better job of being physical w/ him and forcing him to make contested shots. Combined with the fact that he has been under the weather and that he isn't getting the same screens set for him when Fortson and James are in foul trouble it's understandable that he hasn't been playing as well. I'm hoping that Flip does eat into his minutes along w/ Daniels and Ridnour b/c he is the only Sonic that can consistently beat his man off the dribble in the half court. If teams start to help off of his penetration Flip will be able to get Ray and others better looks at the rim.
Whne rAY'S HAVING A BAD NIGHT OR TEAM'S ARE CONCINTRATED ON HIM, the other players will step up and the Sonics will find another way to beat you. I think the Sonics are one of the best teams In the NBA and it's very hard to find a way to completley shut them down and take them out of it early.
Yesterday was just a great example as to why Ray Allen should never be labelled a spot-up shooter. His shot was never really there, it lifted towards the end (I think he finished 9-20), and I believe he ended up shooting 17 freethrows. His shot has been way off for the past week or so, but he keeps getting himself to the line and compensating for it.
