"The Charlotte Bobcats are finalizing a trade that would send Emeka Okafor to the New Orleans Hornets for Tyson Chandler, two people familiar with the deal told the Associated Press on Monday. The swap of 26-year-old centers wasn't expected to be completed until Tuesday and was unlikely to include other players, the people said on condition of anonymity because an official announcement has not been made. The deal would be another roster shake up for the Bobcats since Larry Brown took over as coach last season, and is a gamble because Chandler has been plagued by a left toe injury and recently underwent surgery (Sportsline)."
I really like this trade for the Hornets. I know Okafor never became the guy he was supposed to be when he was taken with the #2 pick over in 2004, but he still puts up solid numbers (13.2 points and 10.1 rebounds for Charlotte last season). Larry Brown questioned his passion, but I think he is what he is. He plays solid defense and can give you 10-15 points a game. With the NBA the way it is you just need a solid big man that can rip down boards, and complement the offense.
The reason I like this deal better for the Hornets is because Okafor is much more durable. Chandler is taller, at 7-1, but averaged only 8.8 points and 8.3 rebounds in a year when he was traded twice. He also had offseason surgery on his toe, which is always a red flag for any big man.
Overall nice trade for the Hornets...
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