Murphy debating between Celtics, Heat
Miami president Pat Riley and Boston general manager Danny Ainge planned to make recruiting pitches to Troy Murphy(notes) on Monday night, and the free agent will soon choose between the Eastern Conference rivals, a league source told Yahoo! Sports.
“He’s still torn,” a source close to the process said Monday night.
Riley and Ainge both planned to call Murphy. Murphy could make a decision as soon as Tuesday, but hasn’t ruled out taking until mid-week to make his decision.
Murphy, a 6-foot-11 forward, secured a buyout from the Golden State Warriors on Sunday night and has narrowed his choices to the Heat and Celtics. His ability to shoot the ball and spread the floor on offense made him appealing to most contenders, and Riley and Ainge are eager to sign him to the veteran’s minimum salary for the stretch run and playoffs.
Boston had been the leader for Murphy, but the trade for forward Jeff Green(notes) and center Nenad Krstic(notes) gave Murphy some pause and made it necessary for Ainge to explain how Murphy would fit into the team’s rotation, a source said. Miami has great need for his length, shooting and ability to rebound.
Murphy played sparingly under New Jets Nets coach Avery Johnson before separating from the team in early January until his trade to Golden State. Murphy averaged 14 points and 10 rebounds for the Indiana Pacers last season.
