Rip Hamilton signs three-year extension

by Matt Watson on Nov 3, 2008 6:08 PM EST

The Detroit Pistons didn't stop at making over their backcourt Monday.

In addition to acquiring Allen Iverson in a three-for-one trade with the Denver Nuggets, the Pistons agreed to a three-year extension with Richard Hamilton, a team source told ESPN.com's Chad Ford.

The new contract is worth $34 million, with the first two years guaranteed. The third year is only a partial guarantee, the source told Ford.

Still waiting to find out more details about Rip's new deal. His original contract went through 2009-10 but gave him an early-termination option this summer. Does the new deal start after 2009-10? Or does it start with 2009-10? We'll find out soon enough, I'm sure.

The crux of my opposition to the AI/Billups rumor last night was that the Pistons could potentially lose both halves of their All-Star backcourt if they trade Chauncey, "lose" AI to free agency and Rip opts out. Obviously that was on Dumars' mind, too, but no longer.

On another note, it's funny how Dumars saved up an entire summer's worth of moves (re-signing Jason Maxiell, trading Chauncey, extending Rip) for the first week of the season. My hands are cramping up from typing ...

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Since only the first two years are guaranteed, is this another sign that we’re targeting that 2010 summer free agent class?

by Shinons on Nov 3, 2008 6:11 PM EST reply actions

Is this an extension or a new deal? If it’s an extension, then next year is still valid with 2 additional years guaransheed…meaning 2011…not 2010. If the first of the two years is next year…this is a good deal.

by TJ on Nov 3, 2008 6:14 PM EST reply actions

The question to ask is whether Rip’s K negotiation was finalized before the Chauncey trade.

by peatey on Nov 3, 2008 6:26 PM EST reply actions

Boney must be thrilled.

by Sauce1977 on Nov 3, 2008 6:28 PM EST reply actions

Ridiculous week in Pistonland courtesy of Joe D… holy s**t.

by Steve in OH on Nov 3, 2008 6:55 PM EST reply actions

LOL@ Sauce

This is suprising as I thought they may let him opt out.

by prophecy_projectz on Nov 3, 2008 6:58 PM EST reply actions

Wonderful news, IMO. He’s been my fave Piston since 02-03 (I think I stand alone there). Great shooter, underrated defender, and by far the most consistent player offensively during his time here. Another pat on the back for Joe.

by Anonymosity on Nov 3, 2008 8:25 PM EST reply actions