The Clippers have been looking to get value for Marcus Camby's expiring contract since they have Blake Griffin. The Blazers have been looking to cash in Travis Outlaw and Steve Blake in order to get a frontcourt player whose knee isn't completely reduced to shrapnel. Ric Bucher is reporting that the Clippers have agreed in principle to trade Camby to the Blazers in return for Blake and Outlaw. The deal involves three expiring contracts, netting the Clippers some savings while keeping the Blazers' flexibility in play this summer. Most importantly, it gives them a legit center to go into the playoffs with. Removing Blake shows a commitment to Jerryd Bayless and Andre Miller, as well as Nicolas Batum, who has been excellent since returning from injury.
Camby is averaging seven points, 12 rebounds, and two blocks per game this season, so his inside credibility is still considerable. If the Blazers were to re-sign Camby next year, they'd have one of the deepest overall teams and a veteran center to give Greg Oden advice for the five or so games he's healthy each year. Sorry, low blow.
The question mark here is Al Thornton, who was already on the block. Thornton's widely considered a gunner, but he's still young and would be a restricted free agent next summer. Under the right management -- say, anyone except the Clippers -- Thornton might have potential to turn his career around. With Outlaw now in L.A., Thornton may be available as a partner for a three-way deal between teams having trouble making a move.
Ah, Trade Deadline Season. Pack your bags, gentlemen.




