Ray Allen.

It breaks my heart to write this. It really does.

But I think, come this off-season, the Celtics should do a sign-and-trade. They should send Ray Allen to another team.

He's been injured for six games. Avery Bradley -- a young, promising, second-year kid -- has started in his place. And he's done well:  he's played impeccable defense, and he's managed to score. He, unlike Allen, doesn't sit at the three point line. Rather, he drives and cuts, and he's good at it. This has added a nuance to the Celtic offense, and it's something they've lacked most of the season.

When Allen returns, they should move him back in the starting lineup. It's only fair. But Doc should make sure Bradley receives significant minutes.

And then, when the playoffs end -- with, hopefully, a Boston championship -- they should move him to another team. Allen, though old, still has some value. The Celtics could pick up a young point guard. They don't have any -- besides Dooling -- on the roster. Bradley is a two, as he has proven over this stretch. Moore, also, is a two.

They need someone solid -- a guy who can really give Rajon Rondo some rest.

And this has to happen. Ainge shouldn't hesitate. He's mentioned that he's willing to make any move that will help the team win. This should be it.

Ray Allen is a consummate pro. He's a guy's guy. And he, like his coach, is a great family man. But, anyone who has watched the Celtics play this past week has noticed a dramatic improvement. They've won five. And they demolished a healthy Miami Heat.

This, to any objective observer, shows Ray Allen to be the most expendable Celtic. Kevin Garnett has played splendidly, and he can play at the five or the four. Paul Pierce will always be The Truth.

But Bradley has proven himself to be a player with tremendous upside. Let him develop.

Ray, it's time to go. Best of luck. But, you can't play for us anymore.  So long, and have a great rest of your career. We'll always remember you.