San Antonio Spurs Trade News: Clippers Sign Ex-Spur Jeff Ayres
Former San Antonio Spurs big man Jeff Ayres makes his return to the NBA after being signed by the Los Angeles Clippers to a 10-day contract.
In a report by NBA.com, the Clippers signed Ayres, who was previously playing for NBA Developmental League (D-League) team Idaho Stampede. In the 23 games he has played with the team since being acquired in October 2015, Ayres was averaging 16.3 points and 9.5 rebounds.
For the 28-year-old player, being back to playing in the big show is an opportunity he is simply thankful for.
"It means a lot. Just to finally get that phone call, it's a great feeling," Ayres said. "It's kind of a feeling of relief, too, that your hard work is getting noticed. It's awesome to know that you've got another opportunity."
Ayres made his NBA debut in 2009, as a second round draft pick by the Sacramento Kings and then traded to the Portland Trail Blazers. After spending just one season with the team, he was eventually let go and was signed by the Indiana Pacers in 2011. In the five seasons he has played in the NBA, he has played in 220 games.
Ayres played for the Pacers for two years, before being signed by the Spurs in 2013. Through the 2014-2015 season, Ayres played in 51 games and averaged 2.7 points, 2.3 rebounds, 0.3 assists, 0.2 blocks and 0.2 steals, through 7.5 minutes of playing time per game.
After being signed by the Clippers on January 23rd, Ayres made his debut with the team the following day, against the Toronto Raptors. Through the five minutes he has played, he was able to pile in two points and one rebound. The Clippers unfortunately lost to the Raptors with a score of 112-94.
With a current win-loss slate of 30-16 and being situated at the number four spot at the Western Conference standings, they are slated to face the LA Lakers on Friday, Jan. 29, at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California.
