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LA Times Clippers beat writer Brad Turner reports that free agent Darren Collison has left the team to accept a 3-year, $16 million offer from the Sacramento Kings. Collison stated "The Kings were the most aggressive team by far in the [sic] free agency, and I respected that on all levels." Collison went on to state that he felt the Kings made him their first priority in free agency and that swayed his decision to move on.
Collison was originally signed as a backup to Chris Paul but ended up playing a substantial role for the Clippers last year, averaging 11.4 points, 3.7 assists and 1.2 steals and logging 35 starts. His loss is a significant one to the Clippers backcourt, considering that guard Jamal Crawford is also rumored to be on the move.
As we reported here on Sonicsrising on Tuesday, Kings point guard Isaiah Thomas has been the focus of substantial free agent interest. Sacramento's signing of Collison all but assures that the former Washington Husky will be playing elsewhere next season. Unlike Collison, Thomas will receive offers of more than the mid-level exception, an indication that the Kings felt that Collison was a more affordable option moving forward.
Along with Crawford, Rajon Rondo's final landing spot now becomes an interesting story to watch, as there are several teams needing depth at point guard, and several options available.
You can read more on this signing from our friends at Sactown Royalty and Greg Wissinger.