Mark Jackson's second stint with the Nuggets was even shorter than his second tour with the Knicks. Jackson finalized a buyout agreement with Denver yesterday and is expected to sign with the Utah Jazz, according to a source.

Jackson, 37, was traded to Denver three months ago along with Marcus Camby for Antonio McDyess. The veteran point guard was included in the deal to make the trade work under salary-cap rules. The Nuggets then informed Jackson that he could try to sign elsewhere.

When contacted yesterday, Jackson refused to comment on his future. If Jackson does join Utah, he would give the Jazz the most prolific point-guard combo in league history. John Stockton has an NBA record 15,177 career assists while Jackson is fourth on the all-time list with 9,840 assists. If Jackson plays a full season, he will pass both Oscar Robertson and Magic Johnson.