Clippers Pursue Iverson

Clippers pursue Iverson
By Lisa Dillman | Los Angeles Times
9:27 PM CDT, July 13, 2009

LAS VEGAS - Talks between the Los Angeles Clippers and free-agent guard Allen Iverson have been characterized as "very serious," according to a source close to Iverson who was not authorized to speak publicly about the negotiations.

The Clippers long have been intrigued by the Peninsula native, having come close to acquiring him in the past.

As recently as last week, however, their interest in him was considered more of a long shot.

The Clippers also were waiting to see what would happen with their trade that sent Zach Randolph to the Memphis Grizzlies, but that deal is scheduled to be completed Friday.

Iverson is looking at the $5.8 million mid-level exception for next season, and one of his other potential suitors, the Miami Heat, is reportedly unwilling to offer more than $2 million for one season.

Until now, the team expressing the most interest in Iverson was Memphis, but team owner Michael Heisley was quoted Monday in the Commercial Appeal as saying he thought the Grizzlies were a last resort for Iverson.

Iverson, who turned 34 last month, was traded from the Denver Nuggets to the Detroit Pistons last season and had a disappointing season for the Pistons.

He also caused a flap during the spring when he said he didn't want to come off the bench for the Pistons.

Iverson averaged a career-low 17.5 points in 57 games for Denver and Detroit. He won the NBA MVP award in the 2000-01 season.

Iverson's suitors
• L.A. Clippers

• Memphis

• Miami

• Charlotte