The Miami Heat attempted to trade for New York Knicks center Eddy Curry before the trading deadline.
The Trade
Exact details haven’t been released yet, but the deal was believed to have included the Miami Heat, the New Jersey Nets, and the New York Knicks.
New Jersey Nets guard Vince Carter was to be shipped to the New York Knicks. Eddy Curry would have been shipped down to the Miami Heat. Expiring contracts from the Miami Heat would have been sent to the New Jersey Nets.
Riley Research
Miami Heat head coach Pat Riley contacted the Chicago Bulls to gather more information on Eddy Curry. It is believed that Pat Riley contacted the Chicago Bulls as opposed to the New York Knicks so they can get more of an unbiased opinion.
Obviously, the Miami Heat inquired about Eddy Curry’s medical history as well.
Shaq’s Sub
While Eddy Curry will never reach the same level of greatness as center Shaquille O’Neal has, he is still solid enough to be able to match the former LSU star’s production in the last year or two.
Eddy Curry would have paired up with forward Udonis Haslem in the starting lineup. Udonis Haslem would have been a much better fit for Eddy Curry than Zach Randolph. He focuses more on rebounding and defense than Zach Randolph ever has.
Riley Rejects
After much deliberation, Pat Riley decided to stand pat.
He decided to keep his expiring contracts to gain some room under the salary cap. Pat Riley is also going to wait to see how Shawn Marion pans out.
Closing Thoughts
It’s best for the Miami Heat and New York Knicks that this deal didn’t happen.
The New York Knicks would have been stuck with another high paid player who doesn’t contribute to the team. The Miami Heat would have been stuck with another center who lacks motivation.