Knicks trade Randolph, Collins to Clips for Mobley, Thomas

PHILADELPHIA -- The Los Angeles Clippers filled their void in the post Friday, acquiring forward Zach Randolph and guard Mardy Collins from the New York Knicks for Cuttino Mobley and Tim Thomas.

Zach Randolph was leading the Knicks in boards. (Getty Images)

The Clippers had been lacking an inside presence since Elton Brand left in July to sign with the Philadelphia 76ers. They were just 2-9 entering Friday's game at Philadelphia, and coach/general manager Mike Dunleavy said it was time to shake up the roster before the season slipped away.

"We're looking for ways to become more competitive," he said.

Dunleavy huddled with the remaining Clippers as they warmed up for the game.

The deal was announced shortly after the Knicks sent guard Jamal Crawford to the Golden State Warriors for Al Harrington on Friday.

Randolph, the 19th overall pick in the 2001 draft, led the Knicks with 20.5 points and 12.5 rebounds. He has career averages of 16.4 points and 8.2 rebounds over seven seasons.

"He's good for us now and in the future," Dunleavy said. "It was something we felt like we had to do."

The deal means either Marcus Camby or Chris Kaman will have to become a reserve. While the Clippers could make another quick trade, Dunleavy said the three could play together.

"Other than Chris Kaman right now, we probably don't have a guy who should be dominant in the low post," Dunleavy said. "This gives us two big guys that are pretty proficient in the low post. Marcus Camby is a great complement to both of those guys."

Mobley averaged 13.7 points for the Clippers. Thomas, who signed with the Clippers in 2006, averaged 9.5 points. He played with the Knicks for parts of two seasons.

Collins, a former Temple Owls standout, averaged 2.2 points and 1.7 assists in nine games.