Ray Allen Rumors: Miami Heat, Boston Celtics Final Two Options For the Free Agent

Reports indicate that Miami is one of two destinations that Allen could choose to sign with. There is also a chance that he will return to Boston.

Allen entered Thursday with eyes on both the Heat and Clippers, but Los Angeles seems to be out of the running. The agreed to sign Jamal Crawford and Chauncey Billups, and Allen canceled his scheduled visit to L.A. following the news.

The move could put the Heat in the driver's seat to land the shooting guard. Just like Kobe Bryant helped convince Steve Nash to sign with the Lakers, LeBron James has been making a big push to get Allen to Miami.

Allen is entering his 17th NBA season, but is still an effective player. In 42 games this past season, he averaged 14.2 points per game on 45.3 percent shooting from three point range. Allen battled injuries due to the condensed schedule, missing 20 games. Expect him to be healthier in an 82-game season.

With James and Dwyane Wade both in the starting lineup, Allen might be relegated to coming off the bench with Miami. The shooting guard has been a starter his whole career, but came off the bench a few times for Boston at the end of the 2011-12 Season.

The Celtics could still end up bringing the veteran back. Boston is willing to offer Allen $12 million over two years.

Miami offered Allen a two-year deal worth $6 million. According to Brian Windhorst of ESPN, the veteran is torn on the idea of leaving his former team.

The relationship between Allen and Rajon Rondo could be one reason why the future Hall of Famer might walk away from the Celtics. The two reportedly had some friction during their last year in Boston and might not want to play with each other again.

The shooting guard is entering the final stretch of his career, and the Heat would give him the best chance of winning another ring. Miami beat Boston in the Eastern Conference Finals this past season.

The Phoenix Suns and Memphis Grizzlies reportedly also reached out to Allen.