Pistons exercise team option on F Maxiell

Oct 1, 2007 - 4:26 PM AUBURN HILLS, Michigan (Ticker) -- The Detroit Pistons exercised their team option on forward Jason Maxiell's contract, the team announced Monday.

Maxiell, 24, is now under contract with the Pistons through the 2008-09 season. He will make just over $1.04 million this season and $1.88 million next season.

"We are pleased to have Jason Maxiell signed through the 2008-09 season," Pistons president of basketball operations Joe Dumars said.

The 6-7 Maxiell played in 67 games - eight starts - with the Pistons last season, averaging 5.0 points and 2.8 rebounds. He owns career averages of 4.2 points and 2.3 rebounds in 93 games over two seasons with Detroit.

Maxiell and 20-year-old Amir Johnson both likely will have increased roles in Detroit's forward rotation this season. The Pistons have expressed their desire to scale back the playing time for 33-year-old forwards Rasheed Wallace and Antonio McDyess, both of whom tired down the stretch last season.

"Jason is a tough, physical player on the front line who continues to grow and mature within our system," Dumars said. "We look forward to the contributions he will bring this season and beyond."