[TorontoStar] Raptors hold on to MoPete by matching Hornets' of
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Jul. 29, 2004. 01:00 AM
Raptors hold on to MoPete by matching Hornets' offer $13
million deal over three years
GM thinks he'll fit well in new offence
DOUG SMITH
SPORTS REPORTER
In a move that surprises no one and solidifies the Raptors at
two positions, Morris Peterson is coming back.
Contrary to premature broadcast reports last night, the team
is not going to announce it has retained the services of the
four-year veteran until tomorrow but they have beaten out the
New Orleans Hornets in their bid to sign the 6-foot-7
swingman.
The Hornets had signed the restricted free agent to a three-year
deal worth slightly more than $13 million (all figures U.S.)
two weeks ago, giving the Raptors until Saturday to match it.
Raptors general manager Rob Babcock said from the outset he
planned to match the offer and just needed approval from the
team's board of directors.
"Morris has an excellent chance to develop," said Babcock,
without confirming that Peterson has been retained. "Before last
year, I thought he was headed for an outstanding NBA career and
we still think he can do that."
Peterson averaged career lows of 8.3 points and 3.2 rebounds per
game under coach Kevin O'Neill last year, whose staid approach
to offence didn't suit Peterson's skills. He was the only Raptor
to play in all 82 games and was their best perimeter defender.
"We want to run and Morris fits in with that very well," said
Babcock. "Plus, he can play two positions (small forward and
shooting guard)."
Peterson, who turns 27 next month, told reporters last week he'd
be glad if the Raptors matched the Hornets offer, after first
suggesting he'd be glad to move to New Orleans. He has close ties
to the Toronto community with various business endeavours and will
continue to play close to his family's home in Flint, Mich.
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