There are 13 guaranteed contracts, a 14th going to a guy with a partial guarantee and a 15th to a player on a make-good deal. But to the Nets’ way of thinking, apparently there is always room for one more.
And that one could be Allan Houston.
The ex-Knick shooting guard, who retired after the 2004-05 season with knee woes, has “an open invitation” to attend the Nets’ training camp, also with a non-guaranteed, make-good situation, sources said.
Houston, a career 17.3 scorer, including 18.5 in his nine seasons in New York, impressed during a private workout this week in Manhattan. Net representatives, including coach Lawrence Frank, attended the workout along with scouts for the Heat, Mavs, Cavs, Spurs and Knicks.
The Nets gladly would welcome Houston to camp, although no formal offer has been made yet.
“He looked good, shot the ball very well and looked to be in good condition,” said Frank. “Now, he didn’t play against anyone, so it was more or less evaluating an individual workout and seeing how he’s doing.”
Houston, 36, would get a veteran’s minimum of $1,219,590 to play with the Nets, who would pick up $770,610 of the bill. It seems like a no-lose situation to bring Houston in.
“He has a unique skill,” Frank said. “He’s an outstanding shooter. He’s doing this because he’s determined to come back.”
And apparently the Nets are appealing to Houston, a Connecticut resident. There would be no major relocation involved. Houston battled an arthritic condition in his left knee that limited him to 70 games his final two seasons, including just 20 in 2004-05.
The Nets have 13 guaranteed deals. Malik Allen, a 6-foot-10 veteran, has agreed to attend camp on a make-good, non-guaranteed deal.
“Malik is an NBA player,” Frank said. “He’s a very professional guy, a character guy. He has shown the ability where he’s a good shooter for his position. He has a way off the bench where he can impact winning.”
Robert Hite, a combo guard with definite shooting skills, is coming to camp with minimal guaranteed money. If Houston comes, the Nets will need to create a roster spot.
Camp opens the first week of next month.