A number of high profile free agents have signed around the NBA, but Celitcs guard Ray Allen remains on the fence, and the Miami Heat are still Boston's stiffest competition. According to ESPN's Brian Windhorst, Allen met with the Miami Heat Thursday night, but walked away without committing to sign next week.
Miami offered Allen their mid-level exception, but at a little over $3 million, it's only half of what the Celtics can offer. For now Windhorst's sources say that Allen is torn between the two offers, and Miami could still offer more money later in the process.
That he's even considering Miami's offer speaks volumes. Both teams have recruited Allen hard, but after rumors of discord between Allen and Rajon Rondo last season and Jason Terry emerging as a potential replacement in Boston, there are certainly signs that Allen could be on the way out of Boston. Whether that means Miami or potentially Minnesota is anyone's guess, but it's a serious possibly.
On the other hand, Allen rejuvenated his career in Boston, won a title with Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce as sidekicks, so perhaps loyalty wins out in the end. For now, the last best player on the market is unsigned, two of the best teams in the NBA are pursuing him hardest of all, and only Ray Allen, himself, can say what happens next. So, we wait.