Luther Head Finds New Home in New Orleans
Six year NBA veteran Luther Head has transferred to New Orleans, as the two parties finally reached an agreement on a lucrative two-year deal.
The Hornets have yet to announce their newest acquisition owing to the fact that Head must still pass his physical.
Nevertheless, Mark Bartelstein, Head’s agent, has revealed that Head will receive about $2.5 million over two years, and that the deal has been sealed.
According to the agent, the Hornets pursued Head because they wanted a veteran who can play both guard spots. Bertelstein also added that the second year of the contract is a player's option.
Head is now entering his sixth year as an NBA pro, and will look to up his value with the Hornets.
Prior to the recent signing, the former Manley Academy stand-out played for the Indiana Pacers with an average of 7.6 points, 1.7 rebounds and 1.5 assists in 47 games. Before that, Head was signed by the Miami Heat but has failed to impress following a broken hand which virtually put an end to his stint.
Head’s first foray in the NBA was with the Houston Rockets, where he proved his worth as a valuable reserve player, taking into account the absences of Tracy McGrady and Yao Ming due to injuries. During the 2006-07 NBA season, Head averaged 10.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.4 assists. He featured in the Rockets’ line-up for four seasons.
Head also impressed in Houston, where he established himself as a reliable clutch shooter, making several game-clinching shots late in games.
With his entry in the Hornets’ hive, many expect Head to compete with second-year player Marcus Thornton for a starting role in the line up. He will also play back-up to point guards Chris Paul and Darren Collison.
New Orleans Hornets General Manager Jeff Bower revealed his faith in Head, saying: "His versatility was important, not only as a shooting guard but also his ability to handle the responsibilities of the point. It gives us a third option at the point guard position, and that was an important thing we were looking for. We're excited about adding all his qualities to our group.''
It is believed that a spot opened up for Head after Morris Peterson was transferred to the Oklahoma City Thunder, along with 11th overall draft pick Cole Aldrich in exchange for first-round draft picks Craig Brackins and Quincy Pondexter.
With the loss of Mo Peterson, the Hornets realized a huge need for a veteran shooting guard who can make clutch plays and good decisions with the ball.
Head, fortunately, has got that down pat. After all, the 6"3' shooting guard has developed a knack for knocking down clutch shots late in the game.
Expect Head to hover around the three-point area while Collison tries to swing the ball around. He can also play the bit role of a third-string point guard and will likely function adequately. His assists rate might not be that spectacular, but Head may come out of his shell provided he is given the lead guard role. But in order to get the most out of Head, the Hornets would be wise to keep him in the catch-and-shoot role for the meantime.
Aside from the signing of Head, the team’s General Manager also revealed that there will be other key signings on the horizon. As a way to improve the roster, it is believed that the Hornets will zone in on a free agent centre that will serve as back up.
"We want to be deliberate to see how things continue to move along with players,'' said Bower.
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