The HRR NBA Trade Analyses Archive

August 1, 2001

“Orlando Finally Deals Brendan Haywood”

The Orlando Magic traded the draft rights to C Brendan Haywood (20th overall) to the Washington Wizards in exchange for G Laron Profit and a future first round draft pick.

Notes:

• The draft pick is available between 2004 and 2007.
• Orlando now has eight potential first-round draft selections during the next four years.
• The Magic have their own first-round pick for the next four drafts, and is also owed first-round picks from Phoenix, Sacramento and the Los Angeles Clippers.

2001 - 2002 Player Salaries:

Brendan Haywood, Was.: $0.9786 M.

Laron Profit, Orl.: $0.465 M.

Who got the better of the deal?

Orlando.

Why?

Orlando signed C Patrick Ewing and F Horace Grant as well as re-signed forwards Andrew DeClercq and Don Reid. In addition to those four signings, the Magic also drafted C Steven Hunter from DePaul. Consequently, despite trading for Brendan Haywood on Draft Night, Haywood’s days in Orlando were numbered.

“We think Brendan will still be a nice player," Magic General Manager John Gabriel said of Haywood. "The need to have three rookies on the team diminished after we made moves in free agency to get and keep veteran players. Getting Laron and a first-round pick made it a better decision.

“We have players now, through free agency, that are a bit more ready to contribute to a team that`s ready to compete. One rookie’s a lot, no less three.”

Laron Profit, 6’4, is a versatile guard who has improved his ball handling skills well enough to play some point guard. He’s a good defender and a very good slasher. However, he’ll have a hard time to crack the crowded backcourt rotation considering Orlando has Tracy McGrady, Mike Miller, Darrell Armstrong, and rookie Jeryl Sasser.

The Wizards needed a center to go along with Jahidi White (6’9, 280). White is a strong, big body; but, he may be better suited to play power forward. Brendan, 7’0, 268, has a raw offensive game; but, he does have a good touch around the basket. He’s always been accused of being too inconsistent from game to game; however, his fellow North Carolina alum (Mr. Jordan) should “help” Brendan overcome that problem.

“We are excited to bulk up our front line,” Wizards President of Basketball Operations Michael Jordan said in a statement. “Brendan brings height and shot-blocking ability to the Wizards. His defensive presence will also be felt when he is on the floor.”