Sixers And Magic Do A Deal

The Philadelphia 76ers re-signed forward Harvey Grant on Friday, then traded him and guard Anthony Parker to the Orlando Magic for forward Billy Owens.

Owens, an eight-year veteran who was traded from the Seattle SuperSonics to Orlando on June 30, averaged 7.8 points, 3.8 rebounds and 21.5 minutes last season.

"Billy's versatility on the court will allow us to utilize our personnel more to our advantage," Sixers general manager Billy King said. "For his size, Billy is a great ballhandler, rebounder, and has great knowledge of the game."

Owens was signed as a free agent by the Sonics on Jan. 22 after playing three seasons with the Sacramento Kings. Because of injuries, he played in only 21 of Seattle's 50 games, starting 19. He missed the final 19 games because of a strained left knee.

Grant, an 11-year veteran, appeared in 47 games for the Sixers last year, averaging 3.1 points, 2.3 rebounds and 17 minutes.

Parker was placed on the injured list Feb. 16 with a fractured left foot and played in only two games. He averaged 1.9 points in 37 games in 1997-98.

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