Suns Release Eisley

Despite having two years and $14.5 million remaining on his contract the Phoenix Suns severed ties with Howard Eisley Friday, releasing the guard who has been unhappy about his role on the team.

The East Valley Tribune reports that Eisley got somewhat less than the $14.5 million he was guaranteed, $13 million over the next two seasons, then a partial guarantee of $1.5 million for a third season, a Suns' official indicated.

Eisley termed the Suns' backcourt "crowded" before sitting out Thursday's exhibition game vs. the Los Angeles Clippers. Coach Mike D'Antoni said Eisley had "flu-like symptoms" though he said so with a wink and a nod.

The Utah Jazz, a team Eisley has played for in the past, are believed to be interested in signing the point guard.

Via East Valley Tribune

Phoenix Suns, Utah Jazz

Read the Full Story Discuss Send Feedback Buy Tickets

Kirilenko, Jazz Agree On Max Dollars

ESPN is reporting that the Utah Jazz and forward Andrei Kirilenko have come to terms on a contract extension which will see Kirilenko remain in Salt Lake City earning maximum dollars, according to sources close to the negotiation.

The news was broken by ESPN Insider's Chad Ford, with the Jazz to defer some of the money beyond the six-year term of the deal. Under collective bargaining guidelines, up to 30 percent of a player's compensation can be deferred. That, according to ESPN, would allow the Jazz to enjoy a significant savings over the life of the contract.

The agreement must be signed by Sunday, Oct. 31, the deadline for players who began their rookie season in 2001 to sign extensions.

Only four players from the 2001 rookie class have signed extensions; Richard Jefferson of the Nets, Pau Gasol (max) of the Grizzlies, Shane Battier of the Grizzlies, and Primoz Brezec, the ex-Pacer now with the expansion Charlotte Bobcats.

Via ESPN

Utah Jazz

Read the Full Story Discuss Send Feedback Buy Tickets

NBA GM's: Pietrus Ready for a Coming Out Party

Mickael Pietrus of the Golden State Warriors was voted the international player most likely to have a breakout season this year.

He will back up Jason Richardson and his prescence is the lone reason why JRich remains without a contract extension.

Pietrus is the best defender former coach Eric Musselman has ever seen and many in the Golden State brain trust expect Pietrus to develop into an offensive player as good as Richardson.

Via NBA.com

Golden State Warriors, Utah Jazz

Read the Full Story Discuss Send Feedback Buy Tickets