September 26, 1997
The rumors and speculation concerning the future of Magic forward Dennis Scott were confirmed this week, when the Orlando Magic announced that Scott has been traded to the Dallas Mavericks.
Scott, from Georgia Tech, was Orlando's 1st round draft pick in the 1990 NBA Draft, and he was voted to the 1991 NBA All-Rookie Team. He quickly became a crowd favorite with his touch behind the three point line, which during the '95-'96 season earned him the NBA record for three pointers in a season with 267, a record which still stands.
Scott, who was embroiled in off-season scandal, including a tirade at a youth basketball camp and a shooting incident that took place at his recent birthday party in Washington, DC, had threatened to sit out Magic training camp due, in great part, to the rampant trade talks.
The Magic, desperately needing a point guard to facilitate moving Penny Hardaway to shooting guard, and overcrowded at the forward position, sent Dennis Scott and $500,000 to the Mavericks. In return the Magic secured 14 year veteran point guard Derek Harper, who is ranked seventh in NBA history in steals, and 6' 8" forward Ed O'Bannon.
Scott, who was present in Dallas for the official announcement of the trade, commented that he was glad to have a chance for a fresh start. The Mavericks had been seeking a talented small forward all summer and were pleased to get the long range specialist.
|
