Tim Thomas signs as predicted to Phoenix.

[jayC]

Tim Thomas has averaged 11.9 points and 4.0 rebounds per game in nine NBA seasons with Philadelphia, Milwaukee, New York and Chicago.

PHOENIX (AP) -- Tim Thomas signed with the Phoenix Suns on Friday, two days after he was waived by the Chicago Bulls.

The 6-foot-10 forward cleared waivers and was signed for the remainder of the season. He was in uniform Friday night for the Suns' home game against the Orlando Magic.

"It's unusual to be able to add a talent like Tim Thomas this late in the season," coach Mike D'Antoni said. "His length and athleticism will be a nice fit for our team."

Thomas hasn't played since the Bulls sent him home in October. He came to Chicago from New York as part of the trade that sent Eddy Curry to the Knicks, but played just three games there.

He then complained about his role and was told to leave the team.

This move gave Thomas quite a jump in the standings. He left the Bulls, the last-place team in the Central Division, for the Suns -- the leaders in the Pacific. He has averaged 11.9 points and 4.0 rebounds per game in nine NBA seasons with Philadelphia, Milwaukee, New York and Chicago.

Thomas will help fill the void caused by the injury to Kurt Thomas, who is out with a stress fracture in his right foot -- an injury that could sideline him for the rest of the regular season.

"He's a big-time talent," D'Antoni said of Tim Thomas. "At 6-10, 250 pounds, that means we just got a lot bigger. His potential on the upside is enormous.

"Right now, he hasn't played since November, so he's a bit rusty. But he should be in good shape in about three weeks. By playoff time, he should be ready to roll."

Teammate Amare Stoudemire was happy to see the newest Sun.

"He's a good pickup," Stoudemire said. "I'm a fan of Tim Thomas' game. He has a good all-around game. He fits our style real well."

Copyright 2006 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

I agree he will be a good fit.

[orangedays]

Tim and Kurt together again...

"Soome will say it was coincidence the wayyyy we met...but I call it desstinnnnnyyyyy"