The Phoenix Suns waived guard Howard Eisley after buying out his contract Friday. Terms of the buyout were not disclosed.
The 31-year-old Eisley played 34 games for the Suns last season after being acquired on Jan. 5 in a multiplayer trade that sent Stephon Marbury and Penny Hardaway to the New York Knicks.
With Eisley now available, it's likely the Jazz will give him strong consideration in their search for help at the point.
The Jazz said they would watch the waiver wire closely for a possible pick-up, and it is known Eisley is a potential target. He backed up John Stockton for five years in Utah, including the Jazz's two NBA Finals seasons.
Jazz starting point guard Carlos Arroyo sprained his ankle in Utah's preseason finale at New York on Thursday, and backup Raul Lopez missed all of the preseason while rehabbing to strengthen muscles in his right leg.
Speculation in Phoenix is that Eisley may be headed back to Utah, but he would have to clear waivers before joining the Jazz — and that won't happen until early next week.
In NBA preseason action:
NUGGETS 98, PACERS 79: At Indianapolis, Indiana guard Reggie Miller broke a bone in his left hand in the Pacers' preseason finale. Miller left the game in the first quarter, clutching his non-shooting hand. He will be examined today to determine the extent of the injury.
TIMBERWOLVES 102, PISTONS 95: At Minneapolis, Kevin Garnett had 22 points and nine rebounds to lead Minnesota in the final preseason game for both teams. Former Jazzman Troy Hudson, in his first game action since March 29, sparked Minnesota with nine second-half points.
RAPTORS 100, CAVALIERS 92: At Toronto, Vince Carter scored 20 points and Toronto beat Cleveland.