Community Shootaround: Ray Allen

Only a handful of players have suited up for an NBA game past their 40th birthday. Ray Allen, who turned 41 last month, is hoping to join that list.

Allen has been out of the league since walking off the court after Game 5 of the 2014 NBA Finals. He remained a productive player to the end, averaging 9.6 points in 73 games while helping Miami capture the Eastern Conference title.

Allen didn’t return to the Heat after that season, but he never really retired either. Over the past two years, there have been rumors that he was working out and getting ready to sign with a contender, but nothing ever materialized. Those rumors have started again, and Allen confirms that there’s a lot of truth behind them.

The 10-time All-Star says he has had conversations with the Celtics and Bucks about possibly joining them next season. Boston is where he won his first NBA title in 2008 and Milwaukee is the team he broke into the league with in 1996, so he has fond memories of both places.

Allen also says that Spike Lee, one of the Knicks’ most famous fans, has been texting him in an effort to convince him to come to New York. The Cavaliers, Warriors, Spurs and Clippers are other teams that have been mentioned in the rumor mill.

Allen may be the best 3-point shooter the NBA has ever seen. He holds the career record with 2,973 made, more than 400 better than his closest challenger, and the career playoff 3-point record with 385. In his two seasons in Miami, he shot 42% and 38% from 3-point range.

That brings us to tonight’s question: Do you believe Allen can still play in the NBA, and which team would be best for him? Take to the comments section below to share your thoughts and opinions on the topic. We look forward to what you have to say.

View Comments (6)