Raptors sign Strickland after injuries to Rose, Williams

TORONTO -- The Toronto Raptors signed veteran point guard Rod Strickland for the rest of the season on Friday and waived guard Jannero Pargo.

Strickland requested and received his release from the Orlando Magic earlier this month. He wanted the opportunity to sign with a playoff team.

Strickland averaged 6.8 points and four assists in 46 games for the Magic, who have the NBA's worst record.

"It was a mutual thing in Orlando. Because of the situation there I think they felt it was good for them to play the younger guys and then look for me to go somewhere else," Strickland said.

Strickland ranks seventh in NBA history with 7,889 assists in 16 seasons and third among active players behind Houston's Mark Jackson and Gary Payton of the Los Angeles Lakers.

The Raptors need a point guard because of injuries to Jalen Rose and Alvin Williams, who are expected to miss at least three more weeks.

"It's imperative he get out there and help us," said Toronto coach Kevin O'Neill, whose team is in danger of falling out of playoff contention.

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