MIAMI — The "Birdman'' has a nesting spot.
The Miami Heat made official Friday what had been expected, signing center Chris Andersen for the remainder of the season.
Andersen, known as "Birdman'' due to his high-flying antics, had been on two 10-day contracts with the Heat. But it was obvious he would be retained by the team for the season after he almost immediately became part of the team's rotation.
In six games, Andersen is averaging 3.7 points and 4.0 rebounds in 10.8 minutes and providing great energy. Miami coach Erik Spoelstra had made it clear earlier this week the Heat were in it for the long haul with Andersen.
"We made this transaction early enough that we'll have plenty of time to get him in shape," Spoelstra said while talking long-term about Andersen, who signed his first 10-day deal Jan. 20. "But it will take some time. We'll be patient."
Before Andersen signed, he had not played this season. The last game he had played had been last March with Denver.
Spoelstra said Andersen now gets exhausted after playing all out for about eight minutes. But he's expected to get less winded as he gets in better game shape.
Chris Tomasson can be reached at christomasson@hotmail.com or on Twitter @christomasson
