The HRR NBA Trade Analyses Archive

January 30, 2001

“Othella’s Get His Wish in Deal to Knicks”

The New York Knicks acquired F Othella Harrington from the Vancouver Grizzlies in exchange for G Erick Strickland, a 2001 first round draft pick, and a 2001 second round draft pick.

Notes:

• The first round pick Vancouver received comes from the Knicks via the LA Lakers.
• Strickland has an option to become a free agent this summer.
• Harrington has an option become a free agent next summer.
• The Grizz plan to package the Laker pick for a higher one (18th or up) to satisfy an old deal with Detroit for Otis Thorpe (August 7, 1997.)

2000 - 2001 Player Salaries:

Othella Harrington, NY: $2.25 M.

Erick Strickland, Van: $2.56 M.

Who got the better of the deal?

New York.

Why?

New York shored up it’s frontcourt by acquiring Harrington. Othella will back up starters Larry Johnson and Marcus Camby and share the load with Kurt Thomas off the bench.

“He's (Othella’s) a good young player, he can rebound, he's strong, and he's a good scorer in the low post,” Knicks general manager Scott Layden said . “And when you see what he's done in the last few years, you have to be impressed with how he's improved his game. We understand he's a very hard worker and someone who has wanted to get better. At Georgetown, he got better each year, and in the pros he got better. That's a great sign that he's not afraid to work.”

Othella, 6’9, 230, has always been known for his great work ethic. However, he’s also known as someone who rarely, if ever, passes the ball once he receives it in the low post. He wanted out of Vancouver for almost 2 year; so, he should be happy. He didn’t like coming off the bench for the Grizzlies; but, it’s assumed he’ll be thrilled to come off the bench for the Knicks.

Layden added, “The point here is we've made a trade for a big guy who is able to help our team,” “And we gave up a player where we had a surplus of other players. If you can get a big guy in that scenario, you do it.”

Strickland, 6’3, 210, is known for his ability to draw charges and his hustle. He struggled with his outside shooting as a Knick; but, Erick believes his poor shooting was due to inconsistent minutes. He should receive consistent playing time in Vancouver backing up Michael Dickerson at shooting guard.

Strickland seems thrilled to be headed to Vancouver.

“I feel good about the system I'm coming to, I know some of the players and their athletic ability and the way they can play the game,” the 27-year-old said. He can play point guard but is more comfortable at the shooting spot. “It's quite a talented team. You'll get a lot of energy, a lot of heart from me. I'm going to play to win every night. I'm about winning, first and foremost.”

“With a few pieces, I think there's an opportunity to do some things. Vancouver isn't a team you just come in and say, 'Hey, we're going to get a win tonight.' I think they just need some strong, winning leadership. The only situation they know is [losing]. And the fans in Vancouver are great, that's one thing I love about it.”

Strickland’s words sound encouraging; but, he could have said them because: he’s polite, not stupid; he appreciates his job as an NBA player; he has yet to experience life as a Grizzlie; or he can opt out of his contract this summer.