Clippers get F Camby

Jul 16, 2008 - 2:28 AM LOS ANGELES (Ticker) -- The Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday acquired forward Marcus Camby from the Denver Nuggets.

In exchange, the Nuggets will have the option of swapping second-round picks in 2010. As a result of the deal, Denver receives a $10 million trade exception, which can be used until one year from the completion of the trade.

"Marcus has been an exceptional representative of the Nuggets both on the court and in the Denver community during his time here, and we are greatly appreciative of all he has done," Denver vice president of basketball operations Mark Warkentien said. "This trade exception, along with the future first-round draft choice we received from Charlotte last month, gives us a number of options and a tremendous amount of flexibility."

Camby is considered one of the top defensive players in the league, becoming just the second player in NBA history to lead the league in blocked shots three consecutive seasons.

A former Defensive Player of the Year, Camby led the NBA with 3.61 blocks per game last season.

"I love this acquisition for the current makeup of our team," Clippers coach Mike Dunleavy said. "We are getting a consummate pro who is maybe the best team defender in the league and who has 60 playoff games under his belt."

Camby set a slew of personal bests last season, averaging career highs of 13.1 rebounds and 34.9 minutes in 79 games - also a career high. Camby also averaged 9.1 points and had a league-best 18.0 rebounds per contest.

"I think this is a very good addition for us, especially since we're getting a player who can really help us without having to give up a player in return," Clippers vice president of basketball operations Elgin Baylor said. "Marcus can play multiple positions and is one of the better rebounders and shot-blockers in the league.

"With him playing alongside (Chris) Kaman, I think we will have a pair of excellent interior defenders, and that will make us a formidable team."

The addition likely was in response to losing long-time power forward Elton Brand to the Philadelphia 76ers via free agency a week ago.

Drafted by the Toronto Raptors with the second overall selection in 1996, Camby spent the past six seasons in Denver after four campaigns with the New York Knicks.

Camby has appeared in 60 playoff games in his career, averaging 8.6 points and 8.8 rebounds.