Los Angeles, CA
In the aftermath of the NBA's biggest 'Decision', it's a little guard from Arkansas-Little Rock, that's making the biggest splash. Los Angeles free agent Derek Fisher has decided to skip the sun and sand of Miami, and try to soak up more champagne with Kobe Bryant and the Lakers.
Fisher, 35, had been heavily pursued by the Miami Heat. Saturday, Fisher met with Miami owner Micky Arison and Heat president Pat Riley at the posh Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Miami. Apparently Dwayne Wade, nor Lebron James, or even Chris bosh were enough to lure Fisher away from one man. The finals most valuable player, Kobe Bryant.
"I have decided to continue with Kobe, continue with our teammates and the fans of Los Angeles," Fisher said in a statement on his website. "While, this may not be the most lucrative contract I've been offered this offseason, it is the most valuable. I am confident I will continue to lead this team on and off the court. Let the hunt for six begin."
The deal Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak has reportedly put on the table, calls for the 14-year veteran to earn $10.5 million over three years, with the final year being a player option.
"Nothing is signed yet," said Kupchak. "We're in continuous dialogue with [Fisher's] representatives and we hope to announce something soon." But not before Fisher added that Kobe Bryant, who had been loyal to him even when others had doubts, asked him to stay-- although also telling Fisher he supported his decision whatever it may be. Bryant and Fisher have won five championships together in eleven seasons as teammates.
Last season Fisher averaged 7.5 points a game with 2.5 assists before upping his numbers to 10.3 and 2.8 respectively in the postseason. He will likely share time with guard Steve Blake whom the Lakers signed last week. On Monday, the Lakers let Jordan Farmar go to the Nets for a three year deal of his own.
With Fisher's signing, the core of the Back-to-Back World Champion Lakers roster will remain in tact for the long term. Everyone; Bryant, Gasol, Bynum, Odom, and, Artest have all previously signed contract extensions.
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