Tyson Chandler Headed to Charlotte? Bobcats Are Clueless

The World Famous LayupDrill Rumor Mill
7/27/09

The New Orleans Hornets have watched other teams in the West get better, while the best young guard in the game, Chris Paul, stood patiently waiting for his franchise to do something. Paul may soon see his wish come true.

ESPN is reporting the Hornets and Bobcats are in serious talks regarding trading their starting centers Tyson Chandler and Emeka Okafor. The trade is reportedly no surprise to those close to the Bobcats, who have been looking to deal Okafor since the season ended. Chandler, as many remember, was traded to the OKC Thunder at the trade deadline this past season, only to have the deal rescinded when he failed a physical. More players and/or teams could be involved in the final version of this blockbuster.

In other news, it seems the Lamar Odom sweepstakes is down to the final days. Contrary to prior reports online, the Lakers have not offered Odom a four-year, $40 million deal. In fact, it now seems the Lakers' offer is actually lower in total value than the Miami Heat’s $34 million, five-year deal. The two franchises' stars, Kobe Bryant and Dwyane Wade, have both publicly lobbied for Odom on behalf of their teams.

The Heat are believed to also be looking to address their backup point guard situation this week. The two leading candidates to fill that role are Jamaal Tinsley, formerly of the Pacers, and Stephon Marbury.

The Philadelphia 76ers are interested in bringing in former Hawk Ronald “Flip” Murray to partially fill the void left from the departure of Andre Miller, according to the Daily News. Murray was expecting a multi-year deal in free agency, but it is expected that he may only receive a one-year contract.

Another veteran who may be changing places is former Celtics forward Leon Powe. The Cavaliers are interested in bringing Powe on board, and after Cleveland lost out on former Bobcat Sean May, the Cavs seem focused on making Powe their top priority right now.

The Mavericks beefed up their front line over the weekend by signing Drew Gooden. Gooden, who will fill the void opened by the departure of Brandon Bass, is expected to receive a one-year deal worth $5 million.