Saturday, June 22, 2013

Allen's shot could shift NBA balance of power

We've all seen it, Ray Allen's unforgettable three point shot to snatch an NBA title from the San Antonio Spurs. Not only did Allen's shot save the Heat's season...it also saved LeBron's legacy. Had Ray's shot rimmed out and the Spurs went on to win game 6?....you already know.

So I digress.

Just as important as the championship itself, defending their title validated the Miami Heat's decision to bring the Big 3 together. Heat President Pat Riley looks like a genius now.

Thanks Ray Allen.

In a copy cat league, do not think that's gone unnoticed. With free agency set to start in just over a week, "the decision" of a few stars could once again shift the balance of power in the NBA.

Chris Paul and Dwight Howard are the big fish of this free agent class. Both have expressed a desire to play together, and both just watched the Big 3 go back to back. If both would be willing to take less money, Paul and Howard would certainly make any team they land on an immediate title contender.

Monta Ellis and Andre Iguodala elected to opt out of their contracts to test the free agent market. Both are versatile guards who can score. Both could be the final piece on a star studded team. Memphis Grizzlies guard Tony Allen is also set to test the market on July 1st. An All NBA defender, Allen could also put a championship contending line up over the top.

Any combination of these players would make for a scary team in 2013.

We will find out in the next days and weeks how this will all play out. But if we witness another super team join forces this summer...don't blame the Big 3.

Blame Ray Allen.      follow @plcolter


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