The 2012 NBA free agency period began early Sunday morning, and already things are getting very serious when it comes to free agent Ray Allen. According to ESPN's Chris Broussard, the Boston Celtics and Miami Heat are in a head-to-head battle for Allen, and the Celtics are willing to pay a lot of money to keep the veteran three-point shooter.
Source: Celtics willing to double (in terms of $) Heat offer to Ray Allen. Will give 2 years/$12 million. Heat can offer only $3 mill a yr
— Chris Broussard (@Chris_Broussard) July 1, 2012
This news isn't too surprising considering center Kevin Garnett said he was going to not retire and re-up with Boston. This means, according to SB Nation Boston's Gethin Coolbaugh, the Celtics front office will not begin a rebuilding process this offseason; instead, they will retool.
Offering Allen double the amount of money than the Heat, who has made Allen their top priority during free agency, is a good indication Boston wants to make another run at an NBA title with the Big 3 in '12-13.
For more NBA Free Agency 2012 coverage, visit our stream and blog, CelticsBlog.