There likely are a number of NBA teams that would love to have Ray Allen’s services. Unfortunately, it appears they all might be out of luck.
The 39-year-old free agent is leaning towards retiring from the NBA rather than attempt to sign with a team for the second half of the season, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst reported recently, via ESPN Cleveland.
Allen last played for the Miami Heat, joining the club in 2012 after five seasons and an NBA championship with the Boston Celtics. The veteran guard was a key part of Miami’s title in 2013, hitting a clutch three-pointer against the San Antonio Spurs in Game 6 of the NBA Finals.
Allen’s role diminished slightly in the 2013-14 season, as he averaged a career-low 9.6 points per game while connecting on 37.5 percent of his three-point attempts, his worst mark since 2009-10.
Allen’s interest in re-signing with the Heat may have dwindled this offseason after LeBron James left South Beach to rejoin the Cleveland Cavaliers. If Allen were to return to the NBA, Cleveland would appear to be his top destination, as he could reunite with James to make a run at one more NBA championship.
Judging by recent reports, however, it appears Allen might be content hanging up the sneakers after 10 All-Star appearances and two rings over 19 illustrious seasons.
Thumbnail photo via Steve Mitchell/USA TODAY Sports Images
