Terry Cummings Owes Thanks to Larry Brown

February 19, 1998:

“Knicks Acquire Cummings”

The New York Knicks acquired veteran F Terry Cummings from the Philadelphia 76ers in exchange for veteran C Herb Williams and F Ronnie Grandison.

1997 - ‘98 Salaries:

Terry Cummings, NY: $1 M.

Herb Williams, Phila.: $767 K.

Ronnie Grandison, Phila.: $272 K.

Note:

Williams and Grandison are free agents this season.

Who got the better of the deal?

Philadelphia.

Why?

Philly head coach Larry Brown promised Cummings he would trade Terry to a contender. Brown kept his promise.

Cummings, 36, has one more year on his contract after this season. He’ll give the Knicks a veteran back up if F Buck Williams misses a lot of time due to his injured knee.

Williams, 40, is a functional center. In fact, Philly may release him very soon. He’ll probably retire after this season and Grandison hasn’t played all season.

The Sixers freed up about $1 M of cap room while the Knicks continue to add to their huge team payroll ($60 plus M).