Injury Forces Mavs' Christie To Retire
24th November, 2005 - 6:33 pm

Dallas Morning News - League approval that will make Doug Christie an ex-Maverick is expected today.

Coach Avery Johnson said Thursday that all that remains between Christie's retirement because of his left ankle injury is for the NBA office, the Mavericks and Christie to complete paperwork. It will be a retirement because of injury, not a waiving.

"We should have some resolution (today)," Johnson said, adding that there was no scenario in which Christie would remain a Maverick.

Owner Mark Cuban was more cautious, saying that nothing is certain until the commissioner approves it. But Cuban said he was extremely pleased with the way Christie has handled the situation.

"He was completely open and honest," Cuban said. "Doug gave 110 percent in his attempt to come back. I have a ton of respect for the hard work he put in. He just couldn't do what he wanted to on the court and that frustrated him."

The Mavericks signed the 6-7 swingman as an insurance policy. Now that Marquis Daniels has proven he's healthy and resuming his on-the-rise career, the insurance no longer is needed.

When Christie's retirement is finalized, it may allow the Mavericks to collect insurance on part of the $3.15-million he is owed for this season.

The Mavericks also will start the wheels turning toward getting a replacement player. [READ]

now that doug is home 24/7, what's the line on the # of days doug stabs jackie? 5 days? 6?