As expected, the Wizards just announced the signing of Early Boykins and the release of Paul Davis.

Boykins, a 10-year veteran, was a free agent and wasn't in the NBA last season, playing instead in Italy.

With Randy Foye day-to-day, Mike James out for five weeks and Javaris Crittenton out for at least another two weeks, Gilbert Arenas had no backup.

The Wizards preferred signing Boykins, because of his experience, familiarity with Arenas and Antawn Jamison from their days as Golden State teammates in 2002-03, and with Flip Saunders' teams from years of going up against the Timberwolves as a member of the Denver Nuggets.

“Earl is a proven veteran point guard who will provide us with leadership and stability off of the bench,” Ernie Grunfeld said in a statement released by the team.

Boykins was signed to a non-guaranteed deal, but the Wizards did not release the terms of the signing.

About an hour ago, I spoke with an insider, who said Boykins already is in the District getting acclimated to his new surroundings. He likely will see a good bit of action Saturday against the Pistons.

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