Ray Allen, Miami to Sign on Wednesday; Rashard Lewis Agrees to Join the Heat for 2012 Too

Washington Wizards v/s Denver Nuggets January 25, 2011 (Photo : Keith Allison)

While Miami plans to sign and introduce Ray Allen to the Heat organization on Wednesday, news of another veteran player joining the team is creating buzz. 

According to the NBA, Rashard Lewis agreed to join the Heat on a two year, $2.8 million deal and is also expected to sign on July 11th.

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While other teams were attempting to recruit Lewis for more money, insiders informed that the Wizards' player was drawn to sign with the reigning champions because he was reportedly attracted to the role of defending a championship. Other teams such as Atlanta, New York and San Antonio showed interest in acquiring him.

Lewis was plagued by his left knee during the 2011-2012 season averaging 7.8 points in 28 games for Washington. He has since played for teams in Seattle, Orlando and Washington.

In Lewis the Heat have another sharpshooter capable of troubling opponent teams who'd have to stretch their defense but at the same time keep an eye on the almost unstoppable drives to the paint by James and Wade.

Thus, with both Allen and Lewis in the perimeter, teams would face a Miami offensive difficult to defend on the paint and behind the arc.

While Allen ranks no. 1 for most three-pointers in NBA history, Lewis ranks 5th, which shouldn't be ignored.

With the Heat's attack now more versatile, it'll be interesting to see how other teams make adjustments to respond to Miami's juggernaut of a team.