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Celtics' Allen makes return to Seattle

Dec 27, 2007 - 2:22 PM Boston (22-3) at Seattle (8-20) 10:30 pm EST

SEATTLE (Ticker) -- Ray Allen makes his return to KeyArena when the surging Boston Celtics visit to the Seattle SuperSonics on Thursday.

After spending 4 1/2 successful years in Seattle, Allen was traded to the Celtics for a package of players which included rookie Jeff Green, who was selected fifth overall in June by Boston.

Allen's departure was due to the rebuilding process the Sonics are undergoing, with Green and No. 2 overall pick Kevin Durant being the cornerstones for the future of team.

While Seattle endures its growing pains, Boston has returned to elite status behind the "Big Three" of Allen, Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce.

Most recently, Allen poured in 17 points to lead four others in double figures in helping the Celtics coast to an 89-69 victory over the Sacramento Kings in the opener of a four-game road trip on Wednesday.

Boston has played just 11 games away from home this season but owns an impressive 9-2 mark outside of Banknorth Garden.

Despite 23 points from Durant, Seattle became the 11th consecutive victim for the Portland Trail Blazers, who posted an 89-79 win on Christmas Day.

The Celtics have lost three of the last four meetings in the series against the SuperSonics.