Jazz expected to sign Elson Sep 9, 2010 06:11PM The Utah Jazz are expected to soon sign veteran center Francisco Elson. Calvin Andrews, Elson's agent, said Thursday an agreement has been reached in principle for a guaranteed contract for an undisclosed duration. Elson, who is in the Netherlands, must complete a physical before the deal is finalized. "I'm glad it worked out," Andrews said. "I'm glad for Francisco, and I'm glad for the Jazz." Utah general manager Kevin O'Connor is on vacation and could not be reached for comment. The 7-foot, 240-pound Elson has averaged 3.9 points and 3.8 rebounds during seven NBA seasons. The 34-year-old former California standout played for Philadelphia and Milwaukee in 2009-10, averaging 1.0 points and 1.2 rebounds in 12 games. Andrews said Elson is in "incredible" shape and has the body of a 28 year old. If he signs with the Jazz, he will help fill in for center Mehmet Okur, who is recovering from surgery on his left Achilles tendon. Elson will be expected to contribute 10-15 minutes per game, solidfying Utah's post game and spreading defenses with his mid-range shooting. Elson's best run in the NBA was from 2005-07, when he averaged 4.9 points and 4.7 rebounds while starting a combined 95 games for Denver and San Antonio. — Brian T. Smith http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/blogs/jazznotes/50253731-62/elson-jazz-andrews-expected.html.csp
He was starting, but he wasn't getting starting minutes. In his best year, he averaged under 22 minutes per game.
