Miles could sign with Lakers | The Salt Lake Tribune

NBA notes • Source says the former Jazz swingman could get L.A.'s mini mid-level exception.

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Unrestricted free agent swingman C.J. Miles has narrowed his options down to a few teams, a league source told The Salt Lake Tribune on Tuesday, and the longtime Jazzman is drawing serious interest from the Los Angeles Lakers.

The 6-foot-6, 222-pound Miles could make a decision during the next 2-3 days. If he signs with the Lakers, the source said, it'll likely be a one- or two-year deal via Los Angeles' mini mid-level exception.

The 25-year-old Miles averaged 8.4 points, 2.2 rebounds and 1.3 assists for Utah from 2005-12, playing in 389 games (159 starts). Miles' best season was in 2010-11, when he set career highs in average points (12.8), rebounds (3.3) and minutes (25.2).

His production slipped last year, though, when he shot just 38.1 percent from the floor and failed to land a consistent spot in the Jazz's rotation. After the season, Miles voiced complaints about coach Tyrone Corbin's ability to communicate with the team.

While Miles often struggled with consistency, he's a highly athletic player many believe has yet to reach his ceiling.

During the 2010-11 campaign, Miles hit at least three 3-pointers in 13 games, connected on 7 of 10 against Portland on November 20, 2010, and scored a career-high 40 points on 14-of-18 shooting against Minnesota on March 16, 2010. Miles' defense also improved the past two seasons, and he's shown the ability to lock down opponents when fully motivated.

Miles dealt with a strained left calf at the end of the 2011-12 season, and didn't play for Utah after April 8. He's fully recovered, though, and is currently engaged in offseason workouts.

The Jazz have been presented with sign-and-trade options for Miles, but none of the deals have thus far gained traction.

Miles was drafted by Utah with the No. 34 overall pick in the 2005 NBA Draft.

Brian T. Smith

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