Walton One Happy Camper
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Luke Walton is a little more at ease these days after re-signing with the Los Angeles Lakers.  "It's great to get it taken care of and ready for  The former Arizona forward was eager to take care of his unfinished business as soon as he discovered Phil Jackson would be returning as head coach. 
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"It's great," Walton said smiling. "It's going to be like my rookie season all over again."
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Walton's playing time decreased substantiably when Jackson stepped down after the 2003 NBA Finals.  Rudy Tomjonavich took over and didn't utilize Walton in his offense.  
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"Phil's offense uses everybody... I love it.  I love listening to him talk before a game and just about basketball in general," Walton said.
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Walton's second-year salary was approximately $662,000 last season and his new contract is expected to be twice as much as that.  Walton's former UA teammate Richard Jefferson was encouraging him to be patient in the process.
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"I told him to wait a little longer," Jefferson said. "He just couldn't wait because he loves Los Angeles and knew he wanted to stay."  
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Jefferson signed a free agent contract in 2003 worth 79 million dollars.  
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"I listen to whatever R.J. has to say," Walton said.  "He's been there before and can help."
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This week the two are helping out each other in their second annual basketball camp at McKale Center.  
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"It's funny.  We were here not long ago learning and now we're teaching," Jefferson said. 
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Judging from their success, the dynamic duo learned quite a bit.