The 30-year-old Shawn Marion and the guard Marcus Banks from Miami Heat were traded to the Toronto Raptors for Jermaine O'Neal and forward Jamario Moon; given that for different aspects each team is looking for a refreshing change. On one hand, the Raptors need more consistency in rebounding and defense, as well as solidify the small forward position, while Miami is looking for a stronger front line of forwards. Therefore the new players could be just the solution for both groups: O'Neal, being a top shot-blocker, would start to rule in the paint for Miami; as Marion should be a good ingredient at the Raptors' small forward position by opening options to the other players basketball his great shooting and rebounding.
Currently, Shawn Marion has an average of 12 points and 8.7 rebounds per game (RPG) -reached with the Miami Heats. Whereas Jermaine O'Neal, even out of the court for several games -due to a number of injuries suffered-, is averaging 13.5 PPG and 7 RPG. Moreover, Banks and Moon have helped their teams as well. Moon has been a strong forward, scoring 7.3 pts and 4.6 rebounds per game in 54 matches on his first time at the NBA; while Marcus Banks, although not being able to play that much, has a record of 2.6 pts and 0.90 RPG in 16 games for 2008/09.
According to some NBA sources, other conditions were added to the deal by Toronto, with a conditional draft pick being send to Miami with some sort of cash compensation in return. This trade has also saved money for both franchises, which is expected to be used to acquire new players next season.
Shawn Marion will be a free agent when he finishes with the Raptors, although general manager of Toronto Bryan Colangelo, who first drafted Marion in his early years in Phoenix Suns, will try to re-sign Marion for next campaign, who for this one is winning around $17,810,000. In contrast, O'Neal may decide to receive a lesser salary in Miami for the chance to compete for a title beside Wade and another prospective star free agent. O'Neal will win around $23,000,000 in 2009/2010.
Additionally, with Shawn Marion inclusion, the Raptors can get better use of Andrea Bargnani, who has been 50/50 in and out as starter and reserve this period; also Chris Bosh could enhance his work in the low post to take a better advantage of his talent. The joint of Marion, Barganani and Bosh will offer balance and a finer rotation to the team.
On the other hand, -as mentioned before- O'Neal and Moon would provide aid in the paint and in the forward positions for the basketball on their intent to overcome the problems they have had this season.
About this deal, analysts think that it is a winning situation for both fractions, since their weaknesses are being strength with these four great players. Now, all left is to wish the best of the lucks for the players and their new teams on the remaining 2008/09 season.
Ally White is a top senior copy writer on NBA games and sports action for the sportsbetting industry.
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