The Washington Wizards reportedly are pursuing free agent Ray Allen again. While the Cleveland Cavaliers are still the purported frontrunners to land Allen, the Wizards could sway Allen to D.C. with the chance to play again with his former teammate, Paul Pierce.
Washington contacted Allen at the beginning of free agency to gauge his interest. Having not been told Allen is uninterested, the Wizards reportedly reached out again this week to Allen's representation.
Per CSN Washington's J. Michael:
"The Wizards have reached out to Ray Allen - again - in hopes of convincing the 39-year-old, if he decides to play rather than retire, to come to D.C., CSNwashington.com confirmed via multiple persons with knowledge of the situation Friday.
"While making another contact, after doing so early in the free agent process that opened July 1, doesn't improve their chances of landing Allen it does impact the big picture for Washington. ...
"First, the Wizards are waiting to get a definitive answer from Allen if he's returning for another season. According to two people with knowledge of the situation, Allen's agent Jim Tanner hasn't told the Wizards that they wouldn't be an option."
Washington is a playoff contending team in the East, and having Allen's former teammate helps their chances of landing the veteran. Still, the Cavaliers give Allen his best chance to win another championship. They also have LeBron James, whom Allen developed a friendship with during their two seasons in Miami.
The latest reports, however, indicate Allen is unlikely to sign with any team before training camp. Allen, entering his 19th season, could also wait until later in the season to sign with a team to help limit the wear-and-tear on his body.
In addition to Washington and Cleveland, Allen reportedly has interest from the San Antonio Spurs and the Los Angeles Clippers.
