The race for the service of shooting guard Ray Allen is down to four teams, although the current state in Cleveland could sway the favor towards the other contenders.
A source close to situation reported that the Washington Wizards, Chicago Bulls, the San Antonio Spurs and the Cleveland Cavaliers are the four teams that emerged as possible destinations for the league's all-time three-point shooter to come out of his hiatus.
Allen, who shot 40 percent from beyond the arc throughout his career, hasn't decided yet whether he'll return for his 19th NBA season. Insiders reported that the 39-year old shooter is still generating tremendous interest in the market, despite holding his decision up to this point of the season.
"The Cavs, Wizards, Bulls and Spurs are among a group of seven teams that maintain interest in signing free agent Ray Allen, tweets Chris Broussard of ESPN.com," according to a report by Hoops Rumors.
"Allen has been spending time in Miami and continuing to stay in shape, Broussard adds, but while it's not entirely clear whether the Heat are one of those seven, the 39-year-old sharpshooter has reportedly ruled out a return to the franchise with which he's spent the past two seasons."
The Cavaliers remain considered as the favorites to land Allen because of his affiliation to several players in that team, particularly his former Miami Heat teammates LeBron James and Mike Miller. However, analysts indicated that the Cavs' current woes (losing four straight games and going two games below .500) might discourage Allen to join the bandwagon.
If the losing trend continues in Cleveland, the Spurs, the Bulls and the Wizards are the possible landing spots for him, primarily because these teams give him a legit shot at adding a third NBA championship ring to his career.
The Wizards and Bulls can still sign a player to a veteran minimum contract, with the latter having an open roster spot to fill. On the other hand, the Spurs have the financial flexibility to sign Allen to a more lucrative contract, thanks to a $3.228M mid-level exception.
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