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 Fox stays in L.A. Forward signs multi-year deal with Lakers
Posted: Friday August 06, 1999 02:08 AM
INGLEWOOD, Calif. (AP) -- Rick Fox signed a multi-year contract with the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday, becoming the second free agent this week to decide to remain with the team. No terms were announced, but it was believed Fox agreed to a six-year deal worth around $25 million. The 6-foot-7 Fox averaged 9.0 points, 2.0 rebounds and 1.2 assists in 44 games for the Lakers last season, his second with the team. Fox played the previous six years with the Boston Celtics, who selected him 24th overall in the 1991 draft. "I've made it clear the past two years how much I've wanted to be a part of the Lakers, and for them to make this long-term commitment to me is very gratifying," Fox said in a statement issued by the team. "Both the Lakers and I are making commitments with one goal in mind -- to win championships. We have a lot of exciting things happening, and I'm thrilled to be a part of it." Phil Jackson, who coached the Chicago Bulls to six championships in the 1990s, was hired as coach of the Lakers in June. Point guard Derek Fisher signed a long-term deal to remain with the team on Tuesday. "Rick is a very talented and also a very versatile player," Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak said. "Whether as a starter or a key player off the bench, he can help us in many different ways, whether it be his shooting, defense or rebounding." Fox was a starter in his first season with the team and a reserve in his second. He earned $1.75 million last season and $1 million in 1997-98. "Rick has also made sacrifices the past couple of years to be with the Lakers," Kupchak said. "We appreciate that, and are very happy to be able to sign him to this long-term contract." Fox, 30, has career averages of 10.8 points, 3.8 rebounds and 2.8 assists.
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