Raptors trade Kapono to Sixers

JayJ44

Starter
Addressing a need for frontcourt toughness and dealing away a disappointing free-agent acquisition, the Raptors made a trade today, acquiring Reggie Evans from the Philadelphia 76ers for Jason Kapono.
Evans, a 6-8, 245-pound power forward, is considered one of the more physical players in the league. Toughness is an aspect of the game Toronto has been lacking for years.
While he's not an offensive threat – averaging just 3.3 points per game last season with the Sixers – his rebounding average of 4.6 boards in just 14 minutes per game should earn him some playing time with Toronto.
"We're changing the dynamic of our club with this move," Raptors president and general manager Bryan Colangelo said Tuesday afternoon. "This obviously addresses a few areas of need."
Kapono, one of the top three-point shooters in the NBA, never really found a niche with the Raptors, who signed him as a free agent before the 2007-08 season. The 6-8 Kapono averaged just 8.2 points per game and shot only 42 per cent from three-point range last season.
"They (the Sixers) probably had too many bigs and we probably had too many finesse players," said Colangelo.
The deal also gives Toronto some financial flexibility.
Evans is owed $4.6 million next season and $5 million in 2010-11 on his contract.
Kapono's deal will pay him $6.2 million this coming season and $6.6 million the season after.
"It doesn't mean we're done yet," said Colangelo.
Colangelo said the team is close to finalizing a deal that will see former point guard Alvin Williams join the coaching staff in some developmental role.
"The discussions are ongoing with potentially an announcement in the coming days," he said.
http://www.thestar.com/sports/article/647956

The Sixers desperately needed a spot-up shooter. They got a good one. Good move for them. The Raptors get some toughness down low, which they needed with Bosh and Bargnani up front. Good move for both teams.
 
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