Aug. 4, 1999
SportsLine wire reports

CLEVELAND -- The Cleveland Cavaliers Wednesday acquired forward

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Lamond Murray from the Los Angeles Clippers for swingman Derek Anderson and forward Johnny Newman in the first sign-and-trade deal since the free agency period started.

Murray was a free agent and officially re-signed with the Clippers, who then shipped him to the Cavaliers. He reportedly signed a seven-year deal worth $25 million.

The 26-year-old Murray averaged 12.2 points and 3.9 rebounds in 1998-99, but lost his starting job at small forward 13 games into the lockout-shortened season. He was also used at shooting guard.

"Acquiring Lamond Murray was an opportunity to add a past NBA lottery pick," Cavaliers general manager Jim Paxson said. "He's a well-rounded player, who provides the ability to complement our inside players and stretch the opposition's defense."

The 6-foot-7 Murray, a first-round pick of the Clippers in 1994, averaged 11.6 points and 4.2 rebounds, while shooting 43 percent from the field and 33 percent from 3-point range, in five seasons with the Clippers.

The 25-year-old Anderson, a first-round pick of the Cavaliers in 1997, is entering the final year of his current contract. The Cavs had a two-month negotiating window to sign Anderson to a contract extension before he is eligible to become a free agent next summer. However, both sides were far apart in negotiations and the Cavs elected to deal him.

The Clippers plan to start Anderson at shooting guard.

"Derek is a talented competitor and will bring extra athleticism to our team," Clippers vice president of operations Elgin Baylor said. "He is an explosive player and an excellent finisher. His presence will certainly make us stronger in the backcourt."

The 6-5, 190-pound swingman averaged 10.8 points and 3.8 assists while shooting 40 percent from the field and 30 percent from 3-point range last year. He earned All-Rookie Second Team honors after averaging 11.7 points and 2.8 rebounds in 1997-98.

A 13-year veteran, Newman averaged 6.1 points and 1.5 rebounds while shooting 42 percent from the field and played in all 50 games for the Cavaliers last year.

Newman, 35, played under Clippers coach Chris Ford while both were with the Milwaukee Bucks in 1996-97.

A second-round pick in 1986, Newman has averaged 11.4 points and 2.3 rebounds in 948 career games with six NBA teams.

"Johnny is a consummate professional," Ford said. "It was a pleasure to work with him in Milwaukee. He's really a guy you can count on."