The Houston Roundball Review is an online basketball publication
by: Kris Gardner, United States Basketball Writers Association member. Credentialed media member since 1997. USBWA approved online journalist. Voter of Katrina McClain, Naismith, USBWA, and Wooden awards.

The HRR NBA Trade Analyses Archive

Lamond Murray Leaves Purgatory

August 4,

“DA Traded to the Clippers ”

The Los Angeles Clippers signed and traded F Lamond Murray to the Cleveland Cavaliers in exchange for G Derek Anderson and F Johnny Newman.

Notes:

  • Newman is a free agent after this season.
  • Anderson can become a free agent after this season.

1999 - ‘00 Salaries:

Derek Anderson, LAC.: $1.4 M

Johnny Newman, LAC.: $1.1 M

Lamond Murray, Cle.: $2.6 M.

Who got the better of the deal?

Cleveland.

Why?

If Derek Anderson’s on - court performance ever matches his arrogance, then the Cavaliers made a mistake in this deal. However, with Anderson’s bad knees (2 torn ACLs in college and 28 missed games over his first two seasons in the NBA), Cleveland’s risk may not be that big.

With Bob Sura, Wesley Person, and rookie Trajan Langdon, Anderson no longer fit in the Cavs’ crowded back court. Also, he was the team’s most marketable trade asset. As a result, Cleveland acquired a small forward, in Murray, which they desperately needed.

Playing for the Clippers, Murray had an up and down career. However, now that Lamond will be surrounded by better players and a winning atmosphere, maybe he can return his play to his 15 points and 6 rebounds per game season of two years ago.

Derek, 26, is very athletic; but, not a good outside shooter.

“Derek is a very talented player, very competitive, very athletic,” Clipper General Manager Elgin Baylor said. “Our coaches want to play a more up-tempo game, and he's the type of player who'll excel at that. He's a player who likes to put the ball on the floor and take it to the basket. He's not a great outside shooter, but I think he's going to improve.”

Newman will reunite with Clippers Head Coach Chris Ford who coached Johnny in Milwaukee. Newman will provide veteran leadership; and, he’ll be a capable back up to (assuming he re - signs) Tyrone Nesby at small forward.

“Johnny Newman is a consummate professional,” Ford said. “He always comes ready to play, and he's a great person to have in the organization. I think the guy is going into his 14th year for numerous teams, but he always comes ready to play.”