Roy, Batum reportedly to Timberwolves

Jul 6, 2012 - 4:18 AM Portland, OR (Sports Network) - The Minnesota Timberwolves have reportedly come to verbal terms on a two-year, $10.4 million contract with Brandon Roy, who will return to the NBA after retiring last December due to knee injuries.

The Oregonian reported the contract and also reported Trail Blazers restricted free agent forward Nicolas Batum will sign an offer sheet with the Timberwolves.

The newspaper said it was speculated the Timberwolves would offer Batum a four-year deal in the range of $45-50 million. However, the Oregonian reports the Blazers sent a message to Batum saying they will match the offer within the three-day window.

Free agent deals cannot become official until July 11, when the NBA lifts the free agency signing moratorium.

After multiple surgeries, Roy saw the cartilage in his knees deteriorate, forcing him to walk away from the game.

Roy established himself as one of the NBA's best shooting guards when healthy during his five years in Portland. He was named Rookie of the Year in 2007 despite playing in only 57 games, averaging 16.8 points, 4.4 rebounds and 4.0 assists. He averaged 22.6 points in 2008-09 and 21.5 the following season, and was named an All-Star three times.

During his career, Roy has averaged 19 points, 4.3 rebounds and 4.7 assists, while shooting 46 percent.

Batum averaged 13.9 points and 4.6 rebounds in 59 contests last season for Portland.