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The Honolulu Advertiser
Updated at 1:25 p.m., Tuesday, July 29, 2008

NBA: Hawks sign Evans to fill Childress' spot

Associated Press

ATLANTA — The Hawks completed their deal with Maurice Evans today, locking up a replacement for sixth-man Josh Childress.

The 6-foot-5 Evans started 47 times for the Orlando Magic last season and averaged a career-high 9.3 points. He was quickly targeted by Atlanta after Childress, a restricted free agent, stunned Atlanta last week by signing with Greek powerhouse Olympiakos.

"He is a quality defender who gives us a physical and athletic presence, whether it's serving as a starter or coming off the bench," Hawks general manager Rick Sund said of Evans. "We are getting a solid player who is coming off his best statistical season, and who also has the talents to spread things on offense with his 3-point shooting ability."

Evans reportedly received a three-year deal for about $7.5 million — much less than Childress would have commanded. Childress' three-year contract in Greece will guarantee him at least $20 million after taxes.

Evans can shift between guard and forward, much as Childress did for the Hawks. Still, the newcomer would have to be considered a significant drop-off from a younger player who averaged in double figures each of his first four seasons in the NBA, including 11.8 last season to help Atlanta reach the playoffs for the first time in nine years.

In Orlando, Evans shot nearly 49 percent from the field and just under 40 percent from 3-point range. He also scored a career-best 27 points in an April 15 victory at Atlanta.