Artest heading to Lakers

Artest heading to Los Angeles

Ron Artest is heading to the Los Angeles Lakers, according to various media reports.

The free-agent forward told CBSSports.com yesterday that he was leaving the Houston Rockets to join Kobe Bryant and the defending NBA champion Lakers.

"I'm definitely going to L.A. -- to sign, yeah," Artest told CBSSports.com. "Lakers, Lakers, Lakers. I'm in L.A. right now."

Artest told the Web site he met with Lakers owner Dr. Jerry Buss and coach Phil Jackson, and was completing details on his deal.

In a text message to ESPN.com last night, Artest wrote: "I am happy to say I am goin' to L.A."

Free agent Iverson contacted by Heat

MIAMI -- Amid a cost-conscious approach to improving the roster this summer, the Miami Heat's attempts to upgrade through free agency apparently aren't being discounted.

Allen Iverson, a former Bethel and Georgetown star is among a group of free agents who has been contacted by Heat president Pat Riley in the opening days of free-agency negotiations, league sources said.

Although the discussions are said to be exploratory, it signals a far more aggressive approach to free agency by the Heat than the team suggested in recent weeks.

Gordon claims Bulls never made offer

CHICAGO -- A day after jumping to Detroit, Ben Gordon says the Chicago Bulls never made a contract offer even though general manager Gar Forman said re-signing him was the No. 1 priority.

Gordon told EPSN Radio 1000 in Chicago that the Bulls made no effort to bring him back.

Gordon agreed to a five-year deal worth at least $50 million with the Pistons after leading the Bulls in scoring the past four seasons.

Forman declined comment. -- From Wire Reports