The HRR NBA Trade Analyses Archive

September 25, 2000

“Wizards Grant Murray’s Wish”

The Washington Wizards traded F Tracy Murray to the Denver Nuggets in exchange for F Popeye Jones and a 2002 second round draft pick.

Notes:

• Jones is a free agent next summer.
• Murray has 3 years and $10 M left on his contract.

2000 - 2001 Player Salaries:

Tracy Murray, Den: $2.7 M.

Popeye Jones, Was: $2.84 M.

Who got the better of the deal?

Washington.

Why?

The 6’7, 228 pound Murray asked to be traded from the Wizards following the end of last season. He wanted to be dealt to a Western Conference team closer to his home and family in LA; however, though Denver isn’t LA, it is away from the Wizards as well as in the Western Conference.

Tracy, 29, is a three point specialist. He shot 43% from the behind the 3 point line last season. Murray, guard Voshon Lenard, and forward George McCloud should form a deadly 3 point attack which would free up low post scorers like Antonio McDyess and Raef LaFrentz to work one on one in the post.

“They better not double-team us or there will be a 3-pointer waiting on them, said Murray. “When you have 3-point threats, it's a lot easier for the guys on the inside to work. I'm happy to be that pressure relief guy, and I've al ways had a lot of pride to do that. And it will be a lot easier on us with guys like Antonio McDyess and Raef LaFrentz.”

Popeye Jones, 6’8, 250, is a coach’s dream. He’s a solid defender; a solid rebounder; a very hard worker; and a player who hustles and busts his butt every minute he’s on the floor. He’ll provide some leadership and toughness in the Wizards’ front court which Washington lost with the free agent departures of Don Reid and Aaron Williams.

He only played in 72 games over the last three seasons due to knee and back injuries; however, he now claims to be in great shape and ready to perform up to his level of play.

“Once I finally got healthy last year I wasn't playing and it was a frustrating season for me,” said Jones, 30. “I'm healthy now and I'm in great shape. I plan on providing defense and rebounding and I can score. People overlook that. I've averaged 11 points in this league.”

Since Jones is a free agent next summer, Michael Jordan, Wizards’ President of Basketball Operations, is well on his way of attaining his goal to have the Wizards “under the salary cap in 2 seasons”.