It’s been said that Ray Allen wants to continue his playing career in the NBA, but he’d prefer to avoid the rigors of training camp.
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Normally this may be frowned upon, however given Ray Allen has nearly two decades of tenure in the league, it’s an understandable sentiment and one that most NBA teams are willing to overlook. That’s why Allen is said to be drawing significant across the league as he attempts to decide on his new team.
The Cleveland Cavaliers, Los Angeles Clippers, San Antonio Spurs and Miami Heat have all expressed a desire to sign the former NBA All-Star though three of those four teams can only offer a league minimum contract. The Spurs, however, have their full mid-level exception available and if they so inclined could pay the sharpshooter $5.3 million dollars for the upcoming season.
Given that, Nick Borges of ESPN.com (via Hoops Rumors) believes the San Antonio Spurs are the most attractive destination for Ray Allen if he wants the ability to not only play for an elite NBA team but also make more than the league minimum.
"Borges notes that if Allen is seeking a title contender and the highest salary, then San Antonio is the best option. The Spurs can offer Allen the $5.3MM non-taxpayer mid-level exception. The Clippers, Mavs, Heat, and Cavaliers can only give Allen a veteran’s minimum contract."
While the lure of playing with LeBron James (his former Miami Heat teammate) is likely attractive, it’s hard to think playing a significant role on a lucrative contract for the reigning NBA Champion wouldn’t top the list.
Granted, there’s no indication that the Spurs are willing to pay Ray Allen the full mid-level exception, which could make the decision more difficult.