Chris "The Birdman" Andresen signs with the Nuggets

[Now_Im_Not_Banned]

Andersen to return to Nuggets

By Benjamin Hochman
The Denver Post
Article Last Updated: 07/23/2008 09:04:55 PM MDT

Ornithologists beware.

"The Birdman" is back in Denver.

Chris Andersen, who earned his nickname for his soaring slam dunks, has agreed to sign with the Nuggets, multiple sources confirmed.

The 6-foot-10 Andersen, who resides in Denver, played for the Nuggets from 2001-04 and most recently with the Hornets. The reserve will sign a one-year contract for $998,000 and help fill the Nuggets' void in the low-post.

"It feels like my rookie season again," joked Denver forward Carmelo Anthony, who played with Andersen in 2003-04.

Since Andersen's days in Denver, his flight path took a detour. He joined New Orleans in 2004-05, where he had a breakout season, averaging 7.7 points and 6.1 rebounds. But the following season, he was banned two years for violating the NBA's substance abuse policy.

Last March, a sober Andersen made his triumphant return to the league, re-signing with New Orleans, appearing in five games. This summer, with Andersen an unrestricted free agent, the Hornets and the Celtics considering signing him, but the Nuggets ended up with the player in their own backyard.

"I'm happy for him — I'm happy he's back in the league," Anthony said. "I'm happy somebody took a chance and picked him up."

In three seasons with the Nuggets, Andersen played in 154 games but started in just four.

The 30-year-old Andersen has a career average of 5.0 points and 4.7 rebounds, and he is known for his hustle and aggressive play on both ends of the court.



Great replacement for Camby! This should put Denver over the top!!

["THE" MoSav]

LOL