Heat, Celtics Eying Troy Murphy

Added on Feb 28, 2011 by Scott in

NBA

The nightmare 2010-11 season for forward/center Troy Murphy is close to taking a turn for the better. The 30-year-old was traded from the Nets to the Warriors last week, then agreed to a contract buyout which will make him free to sign wherever he chooses. Several teams have expressed interest in the sharp-shooting big man, but the leading candidates are reported to be the Heat and Celtics, who both have voids to fill up front.

His banishment to New Jersey came to a merciful end last Wednesday after appearing in only 18 games, and his return to Golden State, the team that originally drafted him in 2001, lasted only a few days. Now, Murphy can look to resume his productive playing days on a contender that knows how to best utilize his talents.

Murphy has averaged 11.8 points and 8.5 rebounds in nine seasons. He’s been a double-digit rebounder five times and is a career 39.4% three-point shooter. His ability to crash the glass and knock down jumpers should make him a valuable asset to a roster in need of his particular skill set.

The Heat have had rebounding issues at times and could also use a solid post player off the bench. The Celtics have even more problems on the boards; they currently rank 29th in the league and the trade of reserve center Kendrick Perkins leaves them thin in the paint. Needless to say, both could use Murphy down the stretch.

Source: ESPN.com