"Ray Allen, recently asked about regaining his rhythm, pointed to the overall need of the offense to get back in synch.

But the Celtics guard, whose shot attempts have dropped from a season average of 12.4 per game to 9.1 during the last six starts as Rajon Rondo's attempts have increased, may need to help himself as well.

"Ray just has to relax, really," coach Doc Rivers said after Friday night's loss in Atlanta. "I just think Ray, like Rondo was, is struggling right now, and when you struggle you press. Ray is dribbling far more than he ever has.

"To me, if it's open, take the shot, and if not move it and see if we can get you another shot. But he'll be fine. I have no concern about Ray Allen. None at all."

To Allen's point, the offense has been decidedly uneven, ranging from Thursday night's efficient, overpowering win in San Antonio to the lackluster loss in Atlanta marked by bad shot selection and poor ball movement down the stretch."