NBA Free Agency Rumors: Josh Smith to Sign a One-Year Deal with the Clippers
The Los Angeles Lakers and Josh Smith have reportedly agreed to a one-year deal worth $1.5 million.
Chris Broussard of ESPN reported that the veteran free agent forward "chose winning and a defined role over money." The Houston Rockets reportedly offered the 29-year-old more money, which he turned down.
"Over my pro career I have spent a lot of time in Houston with friends and family. Over the past year, while with the Rockets, the team, fans and people of Houston have made it a second home," Smith said in a statement. "I want to express my appreciation to everyone for the support and kindness they have showed me and my family while I have been here. Thank you!"
Smith played in 55 games for the Rockets last season after the Detroit Pistons released him in December. He averaged 12.4 points, 6.4 rebounds and 3.3 assists in the regular season. In the postseason, Smith averaged 13.5 points, 5.6 rebounds and 2.7 assists.
The bulk of Smith's salary next season will be from the Pistons, who owe him $5.4 million per year through to the 2019-20 season.
In L.A., Smith is expected to take on the role as the team's third big man. He and new additions, Lance Stephenson, Paul Pierce, Wesley Johnson and Cole Aldrich grouped with Chris Paul, Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan should make the Clippers a top team in the Western Conference next season.
