NBA Trade Rumors: Why the Bobcats Need to Stay Away From Andray Blatche

Two teams that have had their share of struggles so far this season have been rumored to become possible trade partners, by Marc Stein of ESPN.com.

According to Stein, the Washington Wizards are trying to actively move forward Andray Blatche (currently out with a calf injury)—with one possibility being the Charlotte Bobcats, a team that needs serious help outside of rookies Kemba Walker and Bismack Biyombo.

Blatche has been averaging 10.3 points this season (compared to 16.8 points per game last season) even though he has clashed with former head coach Flip Saunders (was fired) and has not yet played under interim head coach Randy Wittman.

One potential trade scenario reported was swapping Blatche (three years and $24 million) for Tyrus Thomas (three years and $26 million), although the Wizards would rather want to take back the expiring contract of Boris Diaw ($9 million) and let it come off the cap at the end of the season.

However, it is unlikely that the Bobcats move Diaw unless a significant piece becomes available via trade or another expiring contract is offered, as the team is looking to keep their salary cap as low as possible. One way that it could happen is if the Wizards add veteran Rashard Lewis into the mix as his contract is not fully guaranteed in 2012-13. The Wizards may wish to keep Lewis around and shop his contract closer to the trade deadline.

If the Bobcats do acquire Blatche, it would be a big risk since he has immaturity issues and the Bobcats do not need any distractions right now.

The Bobcats should not go for Blatche and should find another player worth bringing on board (such as Andris Biedrins of the Golden State Warriors, who needs a change of scenery) as they already have enough forwards on their current roster (some of which are not part of the long-term plans).

As of right now, the two teams have talked, so maybe talks will be revived closer to the trade deadline.