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January 24, 2011
The Toronto Raptors announced Monday they have acquired centre Alexis Ajinca (ah-lek-SEE ah-JIN-sa), a future second-round draft pick and cash considerations from the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for the draft rights to forward Giorgos Printezis. In the transaction the Raptors reacquired the second-round selection they sent to Dallas in June for the draft rights to Solomon Alabi.
Ajinca has appeared in 47 regular season games (six starts) with Charlotte and Dallas averaging 2.3 points, 1.1 rebounds and 6.1 minutes. He recorded career highs of 12 points at New Orleans on December 10, 2008 and six rebounds versus Golden State on December 7, 2010.
Ajinca, 7-foot-2, 250 pounds, was a first-round draft choice (20th overall) by Charlotte in 2008. His draft stock rose following an impressive showing at the 2008 Nike Hoop Summit. He had 13 points, nine rebounds and three blocks against Team USA.
Ajinca has also played in the NBDL with Sioux Falls and Maine. He averaged 13.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, 3.1 blocks and 24.9 minutes in 33 outings. He appeared in the 2010 NBDL All-Star Game.
A native of Saint Etienne, France, Ajinca played two seasons in his homeland before joining Charlotte. He was a member of Pau Orthez in 2006-07 and Hyeres-Toulon in 2007-08. He helped lead the French National Team to the Under 16 (2004) and Under 16 (2006) European Championships.
The Raptors acquired the rights to Printezis (selected 58th overall) in the 2007 NBA Draft from San Antonio for a future second-round pick.
Toronto’s roster now stands at 14 players.
Ajinca is scheduled to join the Raptors for Wednesday’s game versus Philadelphia. Game time is 7 p.m. at Air Canada Centre. (TSN2/Sportsnet Radio The FAN 590).