PLAYER NEWS:
--F Juwan Howard has been signed to a one-year free-agent contract. Howard, 36, is a 15-year veteran who played three games for Denver and 39 games for Charlotte last season, averaging 4.1 points and 1.8 rebounds. --F Jeff Pendergraph has signed a rookie contract and also undergone surgery to correct a left hip impingement. He is expected to be out of action for at least two months.
--G Patty Mills' injured right foot will soon be evaluated by the Trail Blazers' medical staff. The rookie from St. Mary's broke the foot on the first day of rookie camp and has been rehabbing all summer. His goal is to be able to come back and play for the Blazers this season.
DRAFT PICKS:
Victor Clavert, F, 6-9, Spain (first round) -- Blazers have no room on their 2009-10 roster for the 20-year-old prospect, who will remain playing professionally in Spain for at least another season.
Jeff Pendergraph, F, 6-9, Arizona State (second round) -- With Channing Frye leaving for Phoenix, Pendergraph could have excellent shot at making the club next season.
Dante Cunningham, F, 6-9, Villanova (second round) -- He'll get a shot to battle Pendergraph for a spot in the Blazers' roster.
Patty Mills, G, 6-0, St. Mary's (second round) -- Blazers expected him to go much higher than No. 55; could earn the No. 3 point guard position.
