Bonzi Wells to return to Rockets next season

By JONATHAN FEIGEN (Houston Chronicle)
Updated: 2007-06-24 22:15

This time instead of running out of free-agent options, Bonzi Wells did not need them.

Wells, on a "mission" to do what he did not last season, has opted to forgo another try at free agency and return to the Rockets next season, his agent, Bill Duffy, said Saturday.

Wells had until Monday to reach a decision, but Duffy said the paperwork was completed Saturday to opt in to his current contract, worth $2.8 million.

Wells (a 6-5 forward/guard) was adamant that he wanted to return to Houston, Duffy said.

"I believe he will have his best year," Duffy said. "He's healthy. He's committed to being in the best shape of his career. He's on a mission."

Wells could have become a free agent and signed with the Rockets again, but Duffy said the Rockets' need to use their mid-level exception to fill other spots led to Wells' decision.

"I made him understand they wanted him back, but they had concerns and wanted to maintain their flexibility with their mid-level exception," Duffy said. "He's excited to play for a coach (Rick Adelman) he's had recent success with. He was extremely frustrated to not be part of the playoff run, because he felt he could have contributed."

After missing most of camp and the preseason last year with ailments and personal absences, Wells did not get a spot in the rotation until Dec. 12. He struggled to stay healthy afterward and had back problems.

Wells averaged 7.8 points and 4.3 rebounds in 28 games, making 41.1 percent of his shots and 14.3 percent on 3-pointers.



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