Ariza's Agent: "... It was about going someplace where you felt appreciated."

Very interesting stuff coming from Ariza’s camp. What are your thoughts? Sound-off…

L.A. Times: Ariza agreed to a five-year deal with the Rockets for about $33 million, roughly the same that the Lakers had offered in their effort to retain him.

“I had to do what was best for me and family,” Ariza said. “I am happy with my decision. I’m glad this all worked out. The Rockets are going to give me a chance to improve my game and that’s all you can ask for.”

Ariza’s agent, David Lee, said the 24-year-old forward passed up a more lucrative contract offer from another team with salary-cap space. “We decided to go with Houston anyway,” Lee said. “It was never about the money. It was about going someplace where you felt appreciated.”

Here’s more on the situation…

My Fox Houston: I can tell you definitively Trevor had an offer that was nine million more than what the Rockets offered and he decided to go with Houston,” said David Lee, Ariza’s agent, in an interview Thursday with FOX 26 Sports.

“It’s like I told (Lakers General Manager) Mitch Kupchak. It was never about the money. It was about being at a place where he felt wanted and appreciated.”