NBA Notes: Walton to sign new deal with Lakers, The former University of Arizona star is expected to get a two-year contract.
The Associated Press
LOS ANGELES - Former Arizona Wildcat Luke Walton is sticking with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Walton, a restricted free-agent is expected to get a two-year deal to stay in Los Angeles.
His agent, Lon Babby, said yesterday that Walton "is committed to return, and they're committed to him."
NBA teams aren't allowed to make contract announcements until a moratorium ends July 22.
"He's excited about remaining in L.A.," Babby said. "That's his home base. He's had a great experience there. He's excited about playing for Phil Jackson again. He had a lot of success playing for Phil in his rookie year."
Jackson was rehired last month to coach the Lakers after taking last season off.
Walton, 25, was the 32nd overall pick in the 2003 draft after playing at Arizona.
He averaged 2.4 points as a rookie and contributed in the playoffs as the Lakers reached the NBA Finals.
He averaged 3.2 points last season, but he didn't play much until late in the year.