Ray Allen has been sitting back watching the NBA season unfold. The record-breaking guard has not been seen from since last year's NBA Finals when the Miami Heat fell to the San Antonio Spurs and Allen walked off into the land of free agency. It was assumed that Allen would return to the league at some point. Many believed he just wanted to skip out on training camp, but now it appears Allen has just been waiting to see which teams are legit playoff contenders before determining a contract.
According to ESPN.com, Allen will be signing with a team following the NBA All-Star game. The 39-year-old has been coy about his intentions of returning for a 19th season, but has reportedly been keeping in shape while doing on-court work to remain ready if the right offer came along. If Allen makes himself officially available, a large number of teams will be lining up for his services as some have already take the initiative to contract his representatives.
NBA sources report the Atlanta Hawks have already been in contract with Allen's camp to determine just how serious the guard is about returning to the league for the second-half of the season. The Hawks have emerged as playoff contenders leading the Eastern Conference and could desperately use Allen since Thabo Sefolosha is out for the next two months with a calf injury. The team is very suited for Allen's style of play, favoring the long ball over points in the pain.
However, the Cleveland Cavaliers could have the upperhand considering a majority of Allen's old teammates are currently on the roster. LeBron James has already put the sale pitch on to his former teammate and good friend while James Jones and Mike Miller have also spoken with Allen about a return. The Cavaliers do not necessarily need Allen which could sway his decision. The team is working on a deep rotation with Miller, Jones and Shawn Marion. That would cut into Allen's playing time.
The Los Angeles Clippers could be a favored destination if Allen wants to reunite with head coach Doc Rivers. The same is said for the Washington Wizards and Paul Pierce. Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh have also reportedly talked with Allen about a return to South Beach. If Allen intends to return to the league, he is certainly wanted. The team with the best chance at a title run likely wins him over.
