The Cleveland Cavaliers are the most aggressive suitor of Ray Allen, but the Cavs' bid to sign the sharp-shooting guard could hit a snag in the coming weeks.
ESPN reported that the Los Angeles Clippers and the San Antonio Spurs are now in the race to acquire Allen, who is an unrestricted free agent this summer.
The Spurs, who are looking to shore up their roster in the hope of successfully defending their title next season, have one spot left on their roster. But aside from Allen, reports on Saturday also indicated that Gustavo Ayon and Aron Baynes are also on the Spurs' radar.
The Clippers could be the biggest threat to Cleveland's pursuit of Allen, considering the fact that the 39-year-old shooting guard enjoyed a good relationship with Clippers coach and president of basketball operations Doc Rivers during their time with the Boston Celtics.
The Clippers only have 11 players in contract at this point, which could also be an indication that Rivers is also waiting for Allen to make his free agency decision this summer.
Earlier this month, Allen, who has a career average of 18.9 points to go along with 4.1 rebounds and 3.4 assists in 18 seasons, confirmed that Rivers called him to ask about his interest in playing in Los Angeles next season.
Allen reiterated, though, that he is still unsure whether he will play again or retire for good, and if he decides to have another run next season, the former Connecticut standout said that money could be a factor.
It should be noted, though, that the Clippers, Cavaliers and Spurs all have limited financial flexibility, creating speculations that Allen will pick Cleveland, considering their strong chance of winning the title next season
Previous reports indicated that Allen is leaning towards joining James in Cleveland, but the veteran guard denied such rumors about his preferred destination, saying that he could wait until late September before making his decision.
"It's August and I don't want to rush to judgment," said Allen, who averaged 9.6 points and 2.8 rebounds per game last season. "I want to get to September and see how I really feel."
