25thSep

2008-2009 NBA Training Camp Update

Posted by Dave Bradley under NBA Devils

The Blue Devils entered training camp with 14 former players in the NBA.  The group boasts a combined salary total that exceeds $394 million, including $74.83 million in salary this season.  Off the court, we have a number of former players and coaches involved in the NBA, from front office executives to TV analysts to assistant coaches…

DEVILS IN THE LEAGUE
Shane Battier- In his second season with the Houston Rockets, Shane had a monumental impact on helping his team achieve the NBA’s second longest winning streak (22 games) all-time. The forward, known for his lockdown defense, started all but two games for the Rockets and shot an impressive 48% from the 3 point line during their playoff run.
2008-09 Contract: $ 6,448,900

Carlos Boozer- C-Booz topped off another All-Star season by winning gold in Beijing.  Last season, Boozer averaged a double-double with the Jazz, posting a career high 21.1 PPG to go along with his 10.4 RPG.  The power forward also ranked 3rd in the NBA for defensive rebounds, and earned his second All-Star selection.
2008-09 Contract: $11,593,817

Elton Brand- The two-time NBA All Star’s illustrious career was rewarded well this summer as the Philadelphia 76ers signed Elton to a five-year deal worth $82 million. The former #1 draft pick is entering his tenth year in the league, and continues to average a career double-double (20.3 PPG and 10.2 RPG).
2008-09 Contract: $14,248,000

Luol Deng- Signing a six-year $71 million contract extension with the Bulls this offseason, Luol is the centerpiece of the Chicago franchise.  Battling a sore Achilles tendon last season, Luol still nearly led his team in scoring with over 17 points per game.
2008-09 Contract: $9,385,000

Chris Duhon- Another hot commodity in the offseason, the Knicks landed Chris with a two year contract worth $12 million, and already inserted the former Blue Devil into the starting point guard slot.  His 6th-ranked Assist-TO ratio (3.7), leadership, basketball IQ and speed will be a great fit in New York’s new uptempo offense implemented by Coach Mike D’Antoni.
2008-09 Contract: $5,585,000

Mike Dunleavy- A finalist for NBA’s Most Improved Player award last season, Mike surpassed expectations with the Pacers. Flourishing with his new franchise, the forward started every game for Indiana and averaged over 19 points per game.
2008-09 Contract: $9,000,000

Grant Hill- A 13-year NBA veteran, Grant is looking to make a title run this year.  The seven-time All Star started all but two games for the Phoenix Suns and contributed over 13 points and 5 rebounds per game, while providing invaluable leadership in the locker room.
2008-09 Contract: $1,976,400

Dahntay Jones- Leading the Denver Nuggets’ team in scoring (18.4 PPG) in the NBA Summer League, Denver promptly signed Dahntay to a guaranteed contract.  Jones’ scoring prowess are matched by his defensive abilities, which will certainly help a Nuggets team that allowed 107 points per game last season.
2008-09 Contract: $797,581

Corey Maggette- Parting ways with longtime Clipper/Duke teammate, Elton Brand, Corey landed a lucrative deal with Golden State for five years worth $50 million. The high scoring forward appeared in 70 games last season with the Clippers, averaging 22.1 points, 5.6 rebounds and 2.7 assists — all just off his career highs.
2008-09 Contract: $8,275,862

Josh McRoberts- Josh was part of a draft night deal that sent him from the Portland Trailblazers to the Indiana Pacers. The Indiana native has already impressed his new coach with his speed and agility and has a chance emerge as a regular contributor to the young Pacers team.
2008-09 Contract: $711,517

DeMarcus Nelson- After helping to lead Golden State’s Summer League team to a 4-1 record, Golden State recognized DeMarcus’ impact and signed the free agent. Playing for his hometown team, DeMarcus will look to make an impact with his defense and scoring ability.
2008-09 Contract: $442,114


Shavlik Randolph- Needing another piece for their strong front court lineup, the Portland Trailblazers recently signed Shav.  In his three years in Philadelphia, Randolph added a spark off the bench and averaged 4.5 points and 4.2 rebounds in 06-07, including seven starts.
2008-09 Contract: $826,269
J.J. Redick- After his first two seasons in the NBA, J.J. looks to have a breakout season. He has performed well early in the preseason and is prepared to provide Orlando with additional scoring and perimeter shooting.
2008-09 Contract: $2,139,720

Shelden Williams- An integral component of a blockbuster trade last season, the Sacramento Kings needed a post presence and traded for Shelden. In his young career, the 5th overall draft pick has averaged 4.8 points and 4.4 rebounds per game.
2008-09 Contract: $3,395,760

AROUND THE LEAGUE
Chip Engelland (Class of 1983)… Spurs Assistant Coach
Bob Bender (Class of 1980)… Hawks Assistant Coach
David Henderson (Class of 1986)… Cavaliers Scout
Quin Snyder (Class of 1987)… Head Coach of NBDL Austin
Danny Ferry (Class of 1989)… Cavaliers GM

Billy King (Class of 1989)… NBATV analyst
Alaa Abdelnaby (Class of 1990)… NBATV analyst
TOP WEEKEND PERFORMERS
Several Devils have left their mark on the preseason already with recent outstanding performances in exhibition games….
*Inserted into the starting lineup for Golden State on Saturday night, DeMarcus Nelson erupted for 18 points and 7 assists against OKC.  The 2008 ACC DPOY was 8-10 from the floor and hammered down a pair of thunderous dunks in the second half.
*Shavlik Randolph has made the most of his opportunity in Portland.  In 20 minutes of action on Friday, Shav scored 19 points (9-9 FG) and grabbed 10 boards.
*Elton Brand is back and looks as healthy as ever.  The Sixers new franchise player poured in 24 against Duhon’s’ Knicks in just 22 minutes of action on 10-13 shooting.  18 of Elton’s points came in the first quarter.
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