The Cleveland Cavaliers have announced the signing of forward Richard Jefferson.
Advertisement
General manager David Griffin made the announcement from the teams training facility, Cleveland Clinic Courts in Independence, Ohio early Wednesday evening.
The Cavs did not disclose terms of the contract, but the deal is reported to be for one year at the veteran’s minimum.
Jefferson will provide both playoff and championship experience. The 14-year veteran will give the Cavs another experienced wing player who can spread the floor as well as back up LeBron James. He shot over 42 percent from three point range last season. 465 shooting from the field, 4.3 rebounds and 2.2 assists in 30.9 minutes per game.
The 35-year-old played for the Dallas Mavericks last season, and reports had suggested that he was set to pen a new deal to stay in Texas.
Jefferson initially agreed to re-sign with the Mavericks, but owner Mark Cuban allowed him to look elsewhere once DeAndre Jordan reneged on his verbal agreement to leave the Los Angeles Clippers and join the Mavericks. He averaged 5.8 points and 2.5 rebounds.
Advertisement
The 6-7 forward out of Arizona was a member of two National Basketball Association Finals teams with the Nets (2002 and 2003) and has played in 105 playoff contests (73 starts) over his career with averages of 12.8 points on. Free agent Tayshaun Prince had also been considered by the team.
