NBA
Rockets forward Ron Artest has agreed to terms with the Los Angeles Lakers, and Lakers forward Trevor Ariza has agreed to sign with the Houston Rockets.
Artest agreed to a three year deal worth $18 million dollars with L.A. This deal may very well pencil the Lakers in to the NBA Finals for the third year in a row. It may also make free agent forward Lamar Odom expendable.
"I am very excited to finally be going to L.A.," Artest said. "For years now, the Lakers have expressed interest in having me play for them, but we could never get the stars to align. I'm finally a Laker and I can't wait to get on the court with Kobe, Pau, and the rest of the team, and play for Phil Jackson.
"I look forward to helping the Lakers defend their championship, and it will be great to finally not get booed in the Staples Center."
Ariza signed a deal worth $33 million dollars over 5 years. Ariza should fit nicely into the slot left open by Artest.
"I am happy with my decision," Ariza said. "I'm glad this all worked out. The Rockets are going to give me a chance to improve my game and that's all you can ask for."
Expect more player movement in the coming days as it appears that teams are failing to sign their unrestricted free agents.
For more info: Colin-Ward Henninger, Los Angeles Lakers Examiner
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