News / Sports
Darko Milicic Agrees to Three-Year Deal with Memphis Grizzlies
When the Orlando Magic began courting Rashard Lewis it became clear to Darko Milicic that his days with the club were numbered. On Wednesday they became a memory as he agreed to a deal with the Memphis Grizzlies that is believed to be worth close to $21 million over three seasons.
Milicic, 22, has had a tough time living up to the expectations placed upon him since he was drafted with the number two overall pick by the Detroit Pistons in 2003. In his two and a half seasons with the Pistons he never averaged more than seven minutes a game or 1.8 points. When he was dealt to the Magic in the middle of the 2005-06 season Milicic’s numbers jumped to over 20 minutes a game while averaging 7.6 points and 4.1 rebounds per contest.
In 2006-07 Milicic played in a career high 80 games and averaged 8.0 points and 5.4 rebounds per game.
When the season Orlando claimed that signing Milicic would be a priority but when it became clear that signing Rashard Lewis would fill their salary cap they waived Milicic.
The Memphis Grizzlies are hoping that Milicic will complement their top scorer Pau Gasol and thus improve on an NBA worst 20-62 record last year.
