As the Miami Heat await a decision from Ray Allen, they have already looked into a possible backup plan.
The Heat are scheduled to meet with Rockets center Marcus Camby on Saturday, according to the Houston Chronicle. The paper, citing an anonymous source, said Camby also plans to visit the New York Knicks. The Dallas Mavericks and San Antonio Spurs are also reportedly on his list.
Camby’s future in Houston depends largely on Chicago Bulls forward Omer Asik, who the Rockets recently offered a three-year, $ 25-million deal. He can sign the contract July 11, but the Bulls will then have three days to match the offer because Asik is a restricted free agent.
The 6-foot-11 Camby played with the Rockets and Portland Trail Blazers last year. He averaged 7.1 points and 9.3 rebounds in 19 games in Houston. A former league defensive of player of the year, Camby would give the Heat a veteran inside presence. The addition would be welcomed after a season where forwards Chris Bosh, Shane Battier, LeBron James and Udonis Haslem all played out of position because the Heat’s lack of defenders in the paint.
The Heat are meeting with Camby and former New Orleans Hornets forward Rashard Lewis this weekend to provide insurance just in case Allen decides to remain with the Boston Celtics. Allen met with Heat brass for two days before returning to Boston Friday.
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The Celtics have already offered Allen $ 6 million a year, which is nearly twice the amount the Heat can pitch. The positive for Miami is it could fill two needs if the team goes in a different direction from Allen. The Heat could use their $ 3.09 million available to nab Lewis, a proven 3-point shooter, and Camby if both are willing to sign for less to have a chance to win a championship before finishing their careers.
srichardson@tribune.com
