While the Heat prepares to add one power forward, Allen, last year's starting power forward, plays the waiting game.

The Heat recently kept its $810,000 qualifying offer in place, meaning the 6-10 Allen has the right to accept that amount as a 2003-04 salary between now and Oct. 1. The Heat is allowed to match any outside offers for the restricted free agent.

Allen, who has not met with any other team, has been working out daily at AmericanAirlines Arena.

"I'm confident and hopeful that I'll be back with the team," said Allen, who represented the Heat at a Learn to Swim team function at Plantation Aquatic Complex on Thursday.