Rockets' Ron Artest going to L.A. Lakers

David Bauman, Artest's agent, told The Associated Press the final details are still being worked out.

ESPN.com reported Artest had agreed to a three-year deal worth US$18 million. Bauman would not confirm those numbers, saying the deal was still being negotiated.

Artest earned US$7.4 million in his only season with Houston, averaging 17.1 points, 5.2 rebounds and 3.3 assists. The 2004 NBA defensive player of the year was also a rugged 1-on-1 defender, often assigned to guard the opponent's most dynamic scorer.

Bauman said Artest was looking for a championship-caliber team when he became an unrestricted free agent on Wednesday and the Lakers were one of his top choices.

“He wants to win a ring,” Bauman said. “He's a winner and a hard worker and he went looking for a team with whom he could find some justification for what he does. He plays his best when he's in that kind of an environment.”

Artest could not immediately be reached for comment.

He told CBSSports.com that he met with Lakers owner Dr. Jerry Buss and coach Phil Jackson. In a text message to ESPN.com on Thursday, Artest wrote: “I am happy to say I am goin' to L.A.”

Artest's decision is another tough blow to the Rockets, who acquired Artest in a trade with Sacramento last summer. The Rockets envisioned Artest as the final piece to a “Big Three” with Yao Ming and Tracy McGrady, but those two All-Stars are now dealing with long-term injuries.

Houston already knows it will be missing McGrady for the bulk of next season as he recovers from microfracture surgery on his left knee.

The Rockets are also awaiting a definitive prognosis on Yao, who sustained a hairline fracture in his left foot in the playoffs.

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