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Monday August 6, 2007 1:18 PM


Return Engagement


Rockets re-sign Hayes to a multi-year deal

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Damien Pierce
Rockets.com Staff Writer
HOUSTON -- Chuck Hayes is staying in Houston.

The free agent power forward agreed to return to the Rockets on Friday, signing a multi-year deal with the team. Terms of the deal were not disclosed per team policy.

The signing bolsters the team's front court heading into next season, giving the Rockets a pair of power forwards under contract. Carl Landry, the team's second round pick in the 2007 NBA Draft, remains unsigned.

"Chuck was a big part of our success last season," Rockets general manager Daryl Morey said. "We are happy he will be part of our future for some time. His abilities to rebound and defend at an elite level are critical to winning."

Hayes, a 6-foot-6 power forward, emerged as a starter last season thanks to his rebounding and scrappy play. Despite entering the league as an undrafted rookie, Hayes started 43 games and became a constant in the lineup next to Rockets star center Yao Ming. He averaged 5.6 points and 6.7 rebounds, finishing second on the team in rebounding.

Hayes is expected to compete for playing time with Luis Scola.