Cedric Henderson was just along for the ride. Robert ``Tractor'' Traylor literally was excess baggage. The only player Philadelphia really wanted in last summer's deal with the Cavaliers was forward Matt Harpring.

Harpring has not displeased the 76ers in the least.

He's been a perimeter scoring option after Allen Iverson. He's played outstanding defense, having slowed down Michael Jordan earlier this season. And he's provided a gritty style of play that has gotten the oft-fickle fans in the City of Brotherly Love to love him.

The Cavs will see for themselves how Harpring is doing tonight in Philadelphia. It's the first meeting between the teams since the Cavs sent Harpring, Henderson and Traylor to the 76ers on Aug. 3 for forwards Tyrone Hill and Jumaine Jones.

The long-term effects of the deal remain to be seen, but the 76ers have benefited more in the short run. Hill has yet to play due to a back injury. Jones has shown flashes that he can develop into a solid player, but he still needs a lot of work.

It was evident after the deal that the only player the 76ers coveted was the 6-foot-7 Harpring. Just before the season, Henderson was traded to Golden State and Traylor to Charlotte in a three-team deal that brought forward Derrick Coleman from the Hornets.