Jul 10, 2008 3:52 pm US/Pacific
Clippers' Leading Scorer Maggette Now A Warrior
OAKLAND, CA (AP) ―
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Corey Maggette isn't running away from the Warriors anymore. (file)
Rocky Widner/NBAE/Getty Images
The Clippers' leading scorer from last year signed a contract with the Golden State Warriors Wednesday, only hours after the Clippers brought in the Warriors' leading scorer from last year, Baron Davis.
While the Warriors would not comment on terms of the contract, a person with knowledge of the deal previously reported that Maggette would be signed for 5 years at around $50 million.
The 6-foot-6 swingman is expected to be a good fit for Warriors' coach Don Nelson's frenetic, fast-paced style of play.
The 28-year-old former Duke star appeared in 70 games last season with the Clippers and averaged 22.1 points, 5.6 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1.01 steals in 35.7 minutes per contest.
Davis opted out of a $17 million deal for next season to accept a smaller salary to play in his hometown with Elton Brand and perhaps Maggette. However, Brand signed with the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday and now Maggette is a Warrior.
Landing Maggette was not necessarily easy for the Warriors. He reportedly received interest from five other teams, including reigning NBA champions Boston, as well as the previous champions, San Antonio.
But the Warriors were able to offer a longer-term deal and more money after Davis' departure cleared cap room for the team.
Maggette is expected to fill voids left by the departure of swingman Mickael Pietrus to Orlando, and the loss of forward Matt Barnes, whom Nelson said won't be back.
"He's been one of the most productive players in our league for the last several years and provides us with additional versatility and veteran leadership," said the Warriors' top basketball executive, Chris Mullin.
Veterans Stephen Jackson and Al Harrington are the only regulars currently under contract, but Mullin has said the team will sign high-scoring guard Monta Ellis and center Andris Biedrins -- both restricted free agents -- at any price, hopefully to long-term deals.
(© 2009 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
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