Ray Allen hasn't played in an NBA game for nearly three years and there have been a lot of rumors that he could return to the league. In the meantime, he is very active off the court and today, he donated a computer lab to a middle school in Miami. While it's very unlikely that he will return to the NBA again, the former All-Star decided to talk about basketball today, and he gave Dwyane Wade advice about the upcoming free agency.
Allen and Wade were teammates for two years in Miami and they helped the Miami Heat win a championship in 2013. That same year, Ray had a game-tying shot in game 6 against the San Antonio Spurs, which is the biggest shot in the franchise history.
Thanks to his incredible shooting skills, the 41-year old guard saved Miami from a disaster and his shot is a big reason why they won their second straight championship that year.
Ray Allen's advice to Wade is simple
Dwyane Wade has a player option on his contract with the Chicago Bulls, and if he decides to opt-out, he will become an unrestricted free agent. Even though he is 35 and his best years are far behind him, Wade would still be a top shooting guard on the market and there is no doubt that a lot of teams would be interested in his services. He is a three-time NBA champion and beside his amazing skills he displays on the court, Wade can be a great mentor for younger players.
Ray Allen’s advice to Dwyane Wade this summer: “Go to your happiness.”
— Anthony Chiang (@Anthony_Chiang) May 11, 2017
Ray Allen's advice for Dwyane Wade was short and simple, as he advised his former teammate to go to his happiness.
According to Wade, this is what he did last summer when he decided to sign with his hometown team, Chicago Bulls. Wade wanted to see what it feels like to be "on the other side", and he said he decided to be selfish and do what he feels would be the best thing to do.
What will Wade choose?
Wade has a lucrative player option on his contract and he will be paid $23.8 million next year if he opts-in.
However, he may want to return to the Miami Heat, or possibly sign with a championship contender. A few weeks ago, the 35-year old shooting guard said he wouldn't mind being a sixth man on the team, which would indicate that he is willing to have a smaller role.
Miami Heat, as well as championship contenders, won't be able to offer him a lot of money next season.
If Wade is looking to get paid, he will stay in Chicago and accept his player option. However, he understands that a lot of teams would like to sign him, so he might be willing to explore other options. One of the possibilities would be teaming up with LeBron James in Cleveland, or even signing with an unexpected team such as the Denver Nuggets.