Forward James Jones to re-sign with Heat

Free agent forward James Jones said Sunday he has agreed to rejoin the Heat, giving the team another skilled perimeter shooter.

The Heat bought out the last three years of Jones' contract on June 30, but Jones said he always thought there was a possibility he would return.

Jones will earn the $1 million veteran's minimum this season, combined with the $1.5 million buyout sum he is owed for the upcoming season. Jones passed up more money elsewhere. San Antonio reportedly was interested in giving him part of its $6 million mid-level exception.

``I still feel I have unfinished business here,'' said Jones, who played limited minutes last season. ``The opportunity to win a championship was too much to pass up. Hopefully, the minutes will be there and I will make teams pay.''

Jones said he was given no assurances about playing time and will accept his role regardless. With Jones, center Jamaal Magloire and point guard Carlos Arroyo all expected to be re-signed, the Heat will have 13 players under contract. That group includes Dwyane Wade, LeBron James, Chris Bosh, Udonis Haslem, Mike Miller, Zydrunas Ilgauskas, rookie Dexter Pittman, Joel Anthony and Mario Chalmers. Free agent Juwan Howard is also expected to sign.

That would leave the Heat with two open roster spots that would leave them below the NBA's maximum of 15.


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(miamiherald.com)
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