USA - Rockets sign free agent Wells

HOUSTON (NBA) - The Houston Rockets have snapped up the best remaining free agent by signing Bonzi Wells to a multi-year contract.

Terms were not disclosed, but Wells is reported to have agreed a two-year, $5 million contract with a player option after the 2006-07 season that would allow him to return to the free agent market.

"We like the flexibility Bonzi gives us," Rockets general manager Carroll Dawson said.

"Bonzi was one of the top free agents available this off-season and we think he's going to be a good fit with the roster we have assembled. We will be able to use his unique talents in many ways because he can play a variety of positions on the floor."

Wells, 30, spent last season with the Sacramento Kings, averaging 13.6 points and a career-high 7.7 rebounds in 52 games. In a first-round play-off loss to San Antonio, he led the Kings with averages of 23.2 points and 12.0 boards.

The eight-year veteran became a free agent and was offered a five-year, $36 million deal by the Kings, which he turned down. The Kings instead signed swingman John Salmons.

Able to play both shooting guard and small forward, Wells is expected to split time in the back-court with superstar Tracy McGrady and up front with defensive-minded forward Shane Battier.

"Bonzi is an excellent player that will add a lot of depth to our roster," Rockets owner Leslie Alexander said. 

"To succeed in the Western Conference, you have to have a deep roster and players that can play multiple positions. Bonzi is a proven player with six years of post-season experience in this league. Adding him to Tracy McGrady, Yao Ming and Shane Battier makes us a more complete team."

Wells has averaged 12.8 points and 4.7 rebounds in 490 games with Portland, Memphis and Sacramento. 

PA Sport