Rodney's back

Swingman Rodney Carney has agreed to a one-year deal for the fourth-year minimum of $855,189 to return to the Philadelphia 76ers. The Minnesota Timberwolves were interested in retaining Carney's services but couldn't get a deal done.

Carney, a former first round pick of the Sixers, is an underrated defender and has improved his three-point shot. Not a bad little move for the Sixers and how often can you say that?

The former Memphis star played his first two professional seasons with the Sixers, from 2006 to 2008, before being traded in July 2008 along with Calvin Booth, and a future first-round pick to the Wolves as part of a deal to create salary cap room so the Sixers could sign Elton Brand.

Carney averaged 7.2 points and 1.9 rebounds a game in the Twin Cities last season.