Bibby and Murphy have accepted reserve roles for their respective clubs at the veteran’s minimum salary in exchange for a chance at a ring. “He’ll miss shots, he’ll be streaky.” Celtics Coach Doc Rivers told the Boston Herald shortly after hearing the news of Murphy’s acquisition. “When you haven’t played an NBA game in a while, it just tough to get that speed down. But it will come. As long as it’s here by playoffs, I’ll be happy.” 

Murphy leaves a New Jersey Nets team who at 19-43, and in rebuilding mode had little use for the veteran forward but the Celtics however will look to utilize Murphy as another offensive weapon for a dangerous Boston team. “I just tell him to keep shooting,” Rivers said following a mid-week practice. “With Troy, I don’t think I’ll have to say that too much, anyway. But I will because that’s what he does.” 

In just three games thus far with Boston, Murphy has seen more minutes with the Celtics than he did in the previous two months for New Jersey. The former Notre Dame star will serve as a key reserve who can play both forward positions and contribute at center with his above average rebounding ability (career 8.5 RPG in 29 MPG). 

South Beach won’t give Mike Bibby the same opportunities Atlanta afforded but the Heat are desperate for a floor leader following their recent four game slide. Bibby has seen a dip in playing time since joining Miami (24 MPG) but as a one-time elite point guard, Bibby will relieve young Mario Chalmers of fourth quarter ball handling duties and will bring a savvy veteran voice to a team in need of a stabilizing force.