The HRR NBA Trade Analyses Archive

August 21, 1997: "Eric Williams given to the Nuggets"

The Boston Celtics traded F Eric Williams to the Denver Nuggets in exchange for a second round pick in 1999 plus a second round pick in 2001.

Note: The 1999 pick was acquired by the Nuggets in a trade with Orlando on June 25, 1997.

1997 - 1998 Salaries:

Eric Williams, Den: $1.14 M

Who got the better of the deal?

Denver.

Why?

Boston gave Eric Williams away to Denver.  When Rick Pitino took over as the head man in Boston he stated that Eric Williams is a cornerstone of the Celtics’ franchise.  Two months later, Williams should become the starting small forward for the Nuggets.

With LaPhonso Ellis still recovering from his Achilles’ tendon injury, Williams will be competing with Johnny Newman and Danny Fortson for the starting small forward spot.

Williams give Denver another young, aggressive player.  He excels at driving to the basket and drawing fouls.  He should really flourish under new coach Bill Hanzlik’s up tempo offense.  He was tested twice for possible heart problems; however, he passed with no complications.

Williams is in the final year of his 3 year rookie scale contract; so, he can become a free agent next summer.

The Celtics used the cap room created from trading Williams to sign F Chris Mills from Cleveland and G Tyus Edney from Sacramento.

Celtics’ GM Chris Wallace stated Mills is a better 3 pointer shooter and also a better rebounder than Williams.  Tyus Edney will back up rookie G Chauncey Billups at point guard.  Edney will really push the ball up the court.