Thunder finalize deal with Krstic

Dec 30, 2008 - 4:45 PM OKLAHOMA CITY (Ticker) -- The woeful Oklahoma City Thunder on Tuesday signed center Nenad Krstic after the New Jersey Nets declined to match an offer sheet.

Financial terms were not disclosed, but some reports have the deal for three years and worth $15 million. Krstic had been playing with Triumph Lyubertsy of Russia's Superleague A.

"We are pleased to be able to add Nenad to our organization," general manager Sam Presti said. "He is someone that we feel helps this team both in the short and long term. We are excited that he will be a part of the Thunder as we continue to build our team here in Oklahoma City."

It was not a surprise the Nets failed to match the offer for Krstic since they are attempting to clear cap space for the summer of 2010.

Krstic, selected 24th overall in the 2002 draft by the Nets, was averaging 16.4 points early in the 2006-07 season when his career was derailed by a torn ACL in his knee. The 7-foot Serbian returned to average just 6.6 points in 45 games last season.

The Thunder have endured a disastrous first season in Oklahoma City. They own the league's worst record at 3-29 and already have fired coach P.J. Carlesimo.

To make room for Krstic, the Thunder waived center Steven Hill, who appeared in just one game with the club.