The HRR NBA Trade Analyses Archive

October 22, 2001

“Nuggets Acquire Williams; Rockets Obtain Willis; Bucks free Salary cap Space”

The Denver Nuggets traded F / C Kevin Willis and C Aleksandar Radojevic to the Milwaukee Bucks. The Bucks traded C / F Scott Williams and a future first round draft pick to the Nuggets. Milwaukee then dealt Willis to the Houston Rockets in exchange for a 2002 second round draft pick.

Notes:

• Scott Williams is a free agent next summer.
• Willis has a player option in his contract for next season.

2001 - 2002 Player Salaries:

Kevin Willis, Hou: $3 M.

Aleksandar Radojevic, Mil: $1.5 M.

Scott Williams, Den: $4.6 M.

Who got the best of the deal?

Milwaukee.

Why?

The Milwaukee Bucks made this trade in order to free up salary cap room to sign free agent F Anthony Mason. Therefore, if the Bucks are unable to sign Mason, this trade is a flop; however, if they sign Mason, this trade should greatly benefit the Bucks.

Radojevic, 7’3, is a throw-in in the deal. Milwaukee is expected to waive him very soon.

Since forward Antonio McDyess is expected to be out following surgery on both knees until January or February, the Nuggets wanted to acquire a forward / center who was capable of scoring. Denver believes Scott Williams fills those needs.

“I think Williams is more mobile than Kevin and more offensive-minded,” said Denver coach Dan Issel. “I think he'll be a better fit (in) our offense.”

If Williams can stay healthy, he can provide a good scoring touch from 15 feet out; however, Scott’s best asset may be his ability to make positive things happen for his team. Scott is not afraid to give a hard foul; grab a tough rebound; motivate his teammates, etc.

Kevin Willis, 39, returns to Houston. He’s never been a shot blocker; however, Houston appears to have two good shot blockers in rookie F Eddie Griffin and C Kelvin Cato. Kevin is a good rebounder; and, he still possesses a very effective jump hook shot. Plus, Kevin is known for his fantastic workout regimen and his muscular physique; so, maybe he can influence the enigmatic Cato to becoming a better conditioned athlete, too.

“Obviously, it's always a positive when you can add someone with Kevin's leadership and skills, said Rockets’ general manager Carroll Dawson. We like the fact he's played here before and is familiar with our staff. He's a proven winner who should come in and help shore up our forward / center position.”