Nuggets sign Andersen to long-term deal

Chris Andersen, who helped Denver reach the Western Conference finals last season, was locked into a multiyear contract by the Nuggets Wednesday.

The Denver Post reported the deal was for five years and, with incentives, could be worth as much as $26 million.

Andersen missed all of the 2006-07 season for violating the NBA’s drug policy and he played just five games with Orlando the next season.

He signed as a free agent with Denver for 2008-09 and became a major part of the Nuggets’ success.

We’re thrilled to be able to bring Chris back, said Mark Warkentien, Denver’s vice president of basketball operations. We love his energy and hustle and we know Nuggets fans echo that sentiment.

Andersen was one of the major signings announced around the NBA Wednesday.

Houston made it official by signing swingman Trevor Ariza, who left the Los Angeles Lakers in free agency. The Houston Chronicle reported the deal was worth $33 million over five years.

First-round draft pick Stephen Curry signed with the Golden State Warriors after playing two seasons with Davidson and the San Antonio Spurs said they had reached a verbal agreement with forward-center Antonio McDyess. He has spent the last five seasons with the Detroit Pistons.