Brooklyn, NY (Sports Network) - All-Star point guard Deron Williams has
decided to stay with the Nets.
On his Twitter feed, Williams put forth the statement"Made a very tough
decision today..." with a web link that followed to a logo picture of the
Brooklyn Nets.
The 28-year-old Williams, an All-Star the last three years, averaged team-
bests in points (21) and assists (8.8) in 55 contests last season.
Williams had been enticed to play for Dallas, but ultimately the Nets were
reportedly able to offer a five-year deal instead of four by the Mavericks.
Multiple media sources reported Williams' new contract will be worth $98
million over five years.
A first-round pick of the Utah Jazz in 2005, Williams has averaged 17.6 points
and 9.2 assists over 506 career games. He was traded to the Nets in February,
2011.
Although free agent contracts cannot officially be announced until the
moratorium period ends July 11, the Nets are already reportedly bulking up
their roster for the 2012-13 campaign, their first in the new Barclays Center.
On Monday, the team reportedly acquired All-Star guard Joe Johnson in a trade
with the Atlanta Hawks. The Nets have also reportedly re-signed Gerald
Wallace.
On Tuesday there are additional reports that the club is still attempting to
add Orlando's Dwight Howard. The Nets were reportedly discussing a trade that
would send Howard to Brooklyn in exchange for Brook Lopez, Kris Humphries,
MarShon Brooks and a trio of first-round draft picks.
The roster retooling could help the Nets back into the playoffs, a spot they
haven't been in since the 2006-07 season.
The Sports Network