(Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
The unfortunate series of events that has come over the Houston Rockets' organization just got a little worse.
Reports on Hoopsworld.com and Eurobasket.com are saying that free agent Von Wafer will sign with Olympiacos, a wealthy team based in Greece. This coming hours after the team announced that they agreed to a two-year deal worth around $12 million with Linas Kleiza.
The disheartening news comes as another blow to the Rockets' organization, as they were already looking for help on the offensive end with the huge losses of superstars Yao Ming and Tracy McGrady.
Wafer, an undrafted free agent from Florida State, quickly excelled to have a breakout year for the Rockets off the bench and more than capably filled in for the oft-injured McGrady. He averaged just under 10 points a game last year at 9.7 and held a .390 shooting percentage from the three-point line.
Wafer became a fan favorite and was expected by many to be back in a Rocket uniform in the 2009-10 season. It has been speculated that when the Rockets picked up rookies Jermaine Taylor and Chase Budinger via trade in the draft, it all but ended Wafer's short tenure with the team.
The New York Knicks were among the other potential suitors for Wafer's offensive services, but, when they courted other veteran free agents, Wafer decided going overseas was his best available option.
Wafer will receive more of a chance to showcase his offensive capabilities with the Greek club. He is one of several NBA players that have opted to take their skills overseas in search of a larger contract and more playing time.
Wafer had 14 games last season in which he scored 15 or more points, his highest total coming Jan. 13 against the Los Angeles Lakers, when he scored 23 points.
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