The Celtics have won the race to sign highly coveted free agent forward Troy Murphy.

Murphy could be a crucial signing for Boston after the trade of Kendrick Perkins left them light at center.

The former Golden State Warriors big man agreed to a buyout of his contract a few days ago. He wasn't short of offers after becoming a free agent as he received offers from Portland, New York and Orlando. His choice eventually came down to two offers from the Miami Heat and Boston Celtics before he settled on the reigning Eastern Conference Champions.

Boston will look to Murphy's perimeter touch and proven ability to rebound to fortify their frontcourt rotation. The 6 foot 10 forward will be the relative fresh legs for Boston who's paint is currently being manned by 38 year old Shaquille O'Neal and 32 year old injury prone center Jermaine O'Neal. At 30 years of age Murphy is a 10 year veteran but still comes as a major boost for Boston in their attempts to replace the loss of Kendrick Perkins.

Not only does Murphy's signing help the Celtics by the fact they now have another piece of their own puzzle, the fact that they prevented the Miami Heat from adding Murphy also adds to the value of this move.

The Heat were hoping to add Murphy as well as point guard Mike Bibby who can be signed should he clear waivers on Wednesday. The Celtics are also in the market for Bibby who forfeited his whole salary for this season to leave the Washington Wizards and become a free agent last week.

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