Ray Allen Has Decided…To Wait To Decide

The rumors have been flying, but none have landed.

Despite numerous sources proclaiming otherwise, CBS Sports is reporting Allen is still a free agent.

“To continue playing, really, the only argument is I can because I’m in great shape,” Allen told the Hartford Courant in an August 2 interview. “But just because you can doesn’t mean you have to. Many people over these last couple of weeks have lobbied for me to continue to play. My argument for not playing is, I have done a significant amount in my career and I appreciate everything that has come my way and as I’ve gotten older, I’m 39, there are so many things in life I want to be able to do to affect change — like being around kids full time, which I enjoy.”

The Chicago Bulls, San Antonio Spurs, and Miami Heat are also in the running for Allen’s services, if he chooses to continue.

Fox Sports is reporting that though no deal has been reported, there have been discussions between Allen, Allen’s representatives, and the Cleveland Cavaliers over the past two months.

Several Twitter reports stated Allen and the Cavaliers had reached an agreement, with one calling it a “done deal.” But there remains no news and nothing official pertaining to Allen. The Cavs told Allen’s representatives that, given Allen’s age and experience, they would understand if he wanted to wait until later in training camp to sign.

Cavs general manager David Griffin has spoken with Allen’s representatives, and has expressed a desire for the 18-year veteran to join the team. Members of the Cavs, including LeBron James, have also recruited Allen.

Like James, Cavs guard James Jones is close with Allen from their two seasons together with the Miami Heat. Jones visited with Allen in Connecticut earlier this summer.

“He knows we’d love to have him here,” Jones said. “As far as where he goes and what he is thinking, I don’t know. I’m pretty sure he knows that the guys up here and LeBron, that we would love for him to play with us.”

Griffin added last month, “Obviously having LeBron in the fold as the best recruiter you can possibly have, it’s something that’s a special relationship. I think we’re all like-minded and dedicated to the same goal.”

Allen averaged 9.6 points on 44 percent shooting in 73 games with the Heat last season. Those numbers dipped slightly to 9.3 points and 41 percent shooting in 20 playoff games.

[Image courtesy of Ball Over All]