MEMPHIS, Feb. 20 (UPI) -- The Memphis Grizzlies and Orlando Magic pulled off a major trade Wednesday night, agreeing on a four-player deal that also involved draft picks.
In the first big trade before Thursday's trade deadline, Memphis sent rookies Drew Gooden and Gordan Giricek to Orlando for Mike Miller and Ryan Humphrey. The Grizzlies also got a first-round pick in the 2003 draft and a second-round selection in 2004.
It also is the first major trade for Jerry West since he became the Grizzlies' President of Basketball Operations on April 30.
"We are excited to get Mike Miller for our team," West said. "He was the Rookie of the Year just a couple of seasons ago and has the potential to be a terrific player for us. In addition, Ryan Humphrey is an energetic, young forward with considerable talent and athleticism."
In an effort to improve their woeful interior game, the Magic parted with Miller, who was second on the club in scoring at 16.4 points per game.
With Grant Hill sidelined with an ankle injury, the 2001 NBA Rookie of the Year was the club's second offensive option behind star Tracy McGrady.
"While we are certainly sorry to see Mike move on, we have addressed our needs with the additons of Drew and Gordan," said Magic General Manager John Gabriel. "Drew brings size and athleticism to our frontline, while Gordan is an excellent perimeter shooter.
"This is a tough business and Mike was one of my favorites," said Orlando Coach Doc Rivers. "He, however, was the only way we could improve our basketball team. Obviously, anytime you can get size, you need to do it. I'm looking forward to coaching Drew and Gordan."
Gooden, who West raved about before making him the fourth pick in June's draft, should provide the Magic immediate help up front, and fit into the club's up-tempo style. The 6-10 forward is averaging 12.1 points and 5.8 rebounds in 51 games.
Giricek, a 6-6 shooting guard, is averaging 11.2 points in 49 games.
Making a deal of this proportion is a bold move for the Magic (26-29), who are percentage points ahead of Washington for the final playoff berth in the Eastern Conference.
The move is not a surprise for West and the Grizzlies, who were expected to be active before Thursday's deadline.
It has been a disastrous season for Memphis, which lost its first 13 games. West made his first big move when he fired Coach Sidney Lowe and replaced him with Hubie Brown after the club lost its first eight games.
The Grizzlies (16-36) have played better after their horrible start, but still have the second-worst record in the West, and are headed to the draft lottery.
The 6-8 Miller, who was selected fifth overall in 2001 and is in the third year of a $10.86 million contract, would seem to be a natural fit at small forward for the Grizzlies. He has a career average of 14.1 points in 194 career games.
With the deal, the Grizzlies now have the last two NBA Rookies of the Year with Miller and power forward Pau Gasol.
Humphrey, the 19th pick in June's draft who was acquired by Orlando from Utah, has seen limited action in his rookie campaign. The 6-8 forward from Notre Dame is averaging just 1.8 points in 35 games.
