The HRR NBA Trade Analyses Archive

June 24, 1998

"Nick the Quick Heads to Denver"

The Denver Nuggets acquired G Nick Van Exel from the LA Lakers in exchange for the draft rights to G Tyronn Lue (23rd overall) and F Tony Battie.

1998 - ‘99 Salaries:

Nick Van Exel, Den.: $1.9 M

Tyronn Lue, LAL: $0.753 M

Tony Battie, LAL: $2.238 M

Note:

• Van Exel is eligible for free agency next summer.

Who got the better of the deal?

Los Angeles.

Why?

Van Exel had worn out his welcome in LA. His constant feuding with head coach Del Harris were one factor for trade as well as the defeatist attitude he showed during the Lakers’ Western Conference finals attitude against Utah.

Nick isn’t a great point guard; but, he is an improvement over the Nuggets’ guard Bobby Jackson. Nick’s a streak shooter who plays with a lot of flare. He has chronic pain in his left knee which caused him, at one point last season, to contemplate retirement after his contract expired.

The Nuggets still hope to re-sign G Cory Alexander which should bolster their bench and signal the end for G Anthony Goldwire’s stay in Denver.

The Lakers were hoping to draft Tyronn Lue with their 26th pick in the first round; so obtaining him via trade for Van Exel is good for them. Tyronn is very quick with a score first mentality which may conflict with Kobe Bryant’s scoring mentality. Tyronn should be able to back up starting guard Derek Fisher.

Tony Battie had a horrible rookie season. New Denver GM Dan Issel called Battie a “El Busto” on a Denver radio station before Issel was named GM so the writing was on the wall for Battie. Tony needs to get stronger and add weight. He’s very athletic and a good shot blocker who can run the floor. It’s unlikely he’ll see many minutes for the Lakers.