Well now, this is good news

[Scottley Crue]

At least according to CBS, Chris Paul is putting together a strategy to get out of NO.

http://www.cbssports.com/nba/story/13659617/new-hornets-brass-already-facing-crisis-with-paul

[Chef]

At least according to CBS, Chris Paul is putting together a strategy to get out of NO.

http://www.cbssports.com/nba/story/13659617/new-hornets-brass-already-facing-crisis-with-paul

1 small problem: we aren't on the list or even mentioned

reading the article leaves me with the feeling that this "super team" bullshit is gay as hell. it is making me a kobe fan more and more. durant is now my favorite non-bobcat.

[Black]

as long as we make some sort of offer, or at LEAST contact them about it...i will be happy

[ammofan]

FORGET CP3! Get the next best avail. pg and center! CP3 doesnt want to be here...Knicks, Magic or Lakers for him unfortunatley

[CatNation]

You guys should have known CP3 wasn't coming here when he signed with LeBron James' marketing firm.

[murphman]

After reading about the power and influence the CAA now has in this league, all the prior talk about CP3 interested in returning home to play is in the past. He has stars in his eyes and is being steered towards the big market teams. We're probably out of the running before it even begins.

[Ampsportsduo]

Just curious why some people are so eager to believe some things and refuse to believe others.

When people on this forum and in this city talk about a mutual interest we're dismissed.

When people from this city told people on this forum that he could potentially be had, we've been dismissed.

When the Bobcats made a trade that looked very much like the move before the move to get Dampier and people said as much, we were dismissed.

Now, a CBS writer, a very good writer (the very writer that dispelled the Bower wanted to trade CP3 rumor that people were using to refute all CP3 talk) says that CP3 may never play another game for NO and it's taken as gospel, but so are his "primary choices."

So now, people concede he may well be on the move but are quick to continue dismissing all of the intelligence that has been gathered in this city saying that he could come here.

He's got an "exit strategy." It would be difficult for all of his primary targets to swing a deal for him, and yet his hometown team has positioned themselves very well for this moment (and well before this story surfaced) and you think its a coincidence? You think him being in this arena multiple times since his season ended is purely by luck?

It's still possible that he never plays for the Bobcats, but to say that the odds haven't increased in MJ's favor is absurd.

[Ampsportsduo]

You guys should have known CP3 wasn't coming here when he signed with LeBron James' marketing firm.

You're insufferable.

[CatNation]

You're insufferable.

I prefer rational.

[GoBobs]

I remember another guy that wanted to go to the Cavs/Lakers ect. A few days later he came out and said he would play where ever.

[Ampsportsduo]

I prefer rational.

Well wrap your rational head around this:

Chris Paul has apparently identified 3 teams he wants to go to.

All 3 of them just signed FA point guards.

2 teams signed PGs to three year deals worth about $8 million dollars/year (The Lakers signed 2 PGs) and 1 a 4/year deal worth approx. $4 million/year

Meanwhile there's a team that just happens to play here that allowed their starting PG, off a playoff team, to walk out the door for nothing. Then that same team backed out of a trade for a PG at the last possible second.

Then that same team, traded for scraps in a deal that only made sense if it was the trade before the trade.

So... if you're Chris Paul and you really want out, why do you not make it known to your 3 primary choices if you want to win and not have wasted cap space backing you up? Surely he could have floated that info to them that they may not want to commit to DFish, Steve Blake, Raymond and Chris Duhon, right?

Only the JJ Redick signing (if you were planning to ship Air France out) could possibly be interpreted as a move designed with acquiring CP in mind. Meanwhile, every move the Bobcats have made this off-season, the ones listed above as well as re-signing a high flying PF that can run the floor with CP make sense with the idea of bringing him here.

Keep in mind that had he said, I only want to play with the Bobcats our owner may have been in line for tampering charges. After all, look at all the moves that set up well for this to happen. This way, NO can feel like they aren't giving him what he wants and instead taking the best deal for them while shipping him off to another small market. Of course, maybe that's just what he wanted all along.

[CatNation]

People who sign with LRMR marketing firm are not interested in quaint hometown connections, they are interested in forming a global brand.

See: LeBron James

[BETCATS]

Well wrap your rational head around this:

Chris Paul has apparently identified 3 teams he wants to go to.

All 3 of them just signed FA point guards.

2 teams signed PGs to three year deals worth about $8 million dollars/year (The Lakers signed 2 PGs) and 1 a 4/year deal worth approx. $4 million/year

Meanwhile there's a team that just happens to play here that allowed their starting PG, off a playoff team, to walk out the door for nothing. Then that same team backed out of a trade for a PG at the last possible second.

Then that same team, traded for scraps in a deal that only made sense if it was the trade before the trade.

So... if you're Chris Paul and you really want out, why do you not make it known to your 3 primary choices if you want to win and not have wasted cap space backing you up? Surely he could have floated that info to them that they may not want to commit to DFish, Steve Blake, Raymond and Chris Duhon, right?

Only the JJ Redick signing (if you were planning to ship Air France out) could possibly be interpreted as a move designed with acquiring CP in mind. Meanwhile, every move the Bobcats have made this off-season, the ones listed above as well as re-signing a high flying PF that can run the floor with CP make sense with the idea of bringing him here.

Keep in mind that had he said, I only want to play with the Bobcats our owner may have been in line for tampering charges. After all, look at all the moves that set up well for this to happen. This way, NO can feel like they aren't giving him what he wants and instead taking the best deal for them while shipping him off to another small market. Of course, maybe that's just what he wanted all along.
You are reading a book that does not exist.

The fact is, if Paul really is trying to get out of New Orleans, it will be to go to a team that can win a ring with simply his addition to their roster. We do not have the pieces to give and still maintain anything resembling a contender. If we give up talent, we do not have talent to replace it with. The drop off from Jackson to Carrol/Hedo and Wallace to Brown/McGuire is pretty steep. Add the already huge hole at Center, and it would not be too far fetched to think we would be one Chris Paul injury away from the lottery and without a pick:facepalm:

I think if Paul leaves, it will be to a team like Orlando. Orlando could give up Nelson, Gortat, Carter, Pietrus, and a couple picks, take on the Okafor/Poesy contracts and become an even better team with Paul. We cant say that.

I say IF so much because Paul hasnt demanded a trade and the new GM probably doesnt want his first move to be trading the best point guard in the NBA for pieces and hopes that one day Collison will be the best point guard in the NBA. You dont trade a young guy who already is on top for the ability to delevop a younger guy who could one day be on top.

[dnbman]

I say IF so much because Paul hasnt demanded a trade and the new GM probably doesnt want his first move to be trading the best point guard in the NBA for pieces and hopes that one day Collison will be the best point guard in the NBA. You dont trade a young guy who already is on top for the ability to delevop a younger guy who could one day be on top.

The Hornets are also for sale. That means the organization could want financial flexibility and salary relief more than talent. We might be able to keep Jackson and Wallace by offering them DJ, Dampier, and a couple of other picks/young guys.

It would have to be two trades though: Dampier for Paul and then everything else in the other trade.

[Ampsportsduo]

People who sign with LRMR marketing firm are not interested in quaint hometown connections, they are interested in forming a global brand.

See: LeBron James

See Jonny Flynn

[CatNation]

See Jonny Flynn

I see him, but I don't understand the connection you're trying to make. Either way Jonny Flynn and CP3 aren't exactly comparable name brands

[rsxnova]

Bring on the CP3/Melo led bobcats!!!

[Ampsportsduo]

You are reading a book that does not exist.

The fact is, if Paul really is trying to get out of New Orleans, it will be to go to a team that can win a ring with simply his addition to their roster. We do not have the pieces to give and still maintain anything resembling a contender. If we give up talent, we do not have talent to replace it with. The drop off from Jackson to Carrol/Hedo and Wallace to Brown/McGuire is pretty steep. Add the already huge hole at Center, and it would not be too far fetched to think we would be one Chris Paul injury away from the lottery and without a pick:facepalm:

I think if Paul leaves, it will be to a team like Orlando. Orlando could give up Nelson, Gortat, Carter, Pietrus, and a couple picks, take on the Okafor/Poesy contracts and become an even better team with Paul. We cant say that.

I say IF so much because Paul hasnt demanded a trade and the new GM probably doesnt want his first move to be trading the best point guard in the NBA for pieces and hopes that one day Collison will be the best point guard in the NBA. You dont trade a young guy who already is on top for the ability to delevop a younger guy who could one day be on top.

What doesn't exist about what I stated?

As for the Orlando scenario, are we just ignoring salaries? Nelson 3 years, Gortat 4 years, Pietrus 2 years. The Hornets get 0 immediate cap relief and are locked into paying the Magic's bench for multiple years. Why would a team lock themselves into mediocrity. Paul won't have a say in the trade (other than telling teams he's not interested in re-signing potentially). Oh, and those picks will likely be 28-30th. Congrats. (also what dnbman said)

This decision being the Hornets can't be overlooked. It's not all about what CP3 wants. Although, I maintain that he would not be opposed to coming here.

It should be noted too that this team will have a 1st round draft pick next year.

[Ampsportsduo]

I see him, but I don't understand the connection you're trying to make. Either way Jonny Flynn and CP3 aren't exactly comparable name brands

I thought we were listing LRMR guys. Were we not? My mistake.

[ALong13]

While I'd love to see Paul return home to Carolina in a Cats uniform, I just don't expect it to happen nor have I ever thought it would happen. I really like Paul, but we are already in the luxe tax, acquiring him would just put us further into that tax.

[stun704]

The list that was leaked is all smoke screens

1) Charlotte has been rumored for the past week to be trading for CP3, every event that has transpired has been going towards Cha's favor in landing CP3.

2) I think CP3 dropped those names because they seem to be the "Givens" but in reality they don't have anything that NO would want.

3) NO has lost 75% of its leverage to load CP3 with a bad contract, with him demanding a trade. That means Dampiers contract has just became that much sexier, Damp can be traded for CP3 as a straight swap, and NO drops salary space which it desperately wanted.

4) NC is his home state, he spends a lot of his time in charlotte during the off season, was even present during the playoff games this year, He even stated it would be a dream to play in Charlotte... is part of the Jordan brand, yet his home state isn't even mentioned? its all smoke and mirrors.

5) Bobcats can offer cap relief without gutting its roster... IF we traded for CP3 for Damp straight up, then parlayed a package for melo, we would automatically become as good as the heat.

[x2pacalypse]

the lakers can't get him, the knicks can't unless they want to waste felton's salary, the magic don't have the pieces to trade for him

sorry cp3-0 but you're coming here and you'll like it!

[Mustachio]

I think Amps point about tampering is being overlooked here. Paul and Melo are both contracted players, any word of bobcat involvement in planning about this and tamper charges could be around the corner.

It makes too much sense to me. I believe. You guys are killing me with this Cleveland Browns attitude... aww shucks we suck , we'll never get good players here in Charlotte bull crap.

We got Jordan. Jordan is a winner.

Shoe deals, Jordan Brand, south east rivalry going on with Miami CLT and Orlando all in the same conference each playing each other 4 times a year. It'd be great for the NBA. Bobcats games sold out. Its a great decision for everyone involved. Jordan and the Bobcats make money, win games and contend for championships, NO and Denver dont lose their star players for absolutely nothing in free agency. Most of all the New York Knicks get left at the alter and who wouldnt love to see that.

[TheBeagle]

The list that was leaked is all smoke screens

1) Charlotte has been rumored for the past week to be trading for CP3, every event that has transpired has been going towards Cha's favor in landing CP3.

2) I think CP3 dropped those names because they seem to be the "Givens" but in reality they don't have anything that NO would want.

3) NO has lost 75% of its leverage to load CP3 with a bad contract, with him demanding a trade. That means Dampiers contract has just became that much sexier, Damp can be traded for CP3 as a straight swap, and NO drops salary space which it desperately wanted.

4) NC is his home state, he spends a lot of his time in charlotte during the off season, was even present during the playoff games this year, He even stated it would be a dream to play in Charlotte... is part of the Jordan brand, yet his home state isn't even mentioned? its all smoke and mirrors.

5) Bobcats can offer cap relief without gutting its roster... IF we traded for CP3 for Damp straight up, then parlayed a package for melo, we would automatically become as good as the heat. Agree with all 5 points you make. Like has been said earlier, the three teams mentioned don't even make sense which makes me skeptical as it is.

Believe me, I'm not getting my hopes up (though it'd be insane to add Chris and Melo!!!), but this is good forward progress for MJ to get CP. Once again, not saying he'll be able to get it done, but as the OP says, "this is good news" for us.....at least those of us who want CP here.

[polarcat]

I agree with amp and others that believe the glass is half full rather than half empty. By no means is it a lock that CP3 will be here next year, but sometimes things that all point to something do indeed have validity. The Felton release, Dampier signing, T2 getting re-upped, Livingston getting inked, and letting Chandler go, as well as now this leaked news lead me to believe a cap-relief move of Paul & Okafor coming to the QC is not that hard to wrap my head around. Again, nothing in sports business is a sure thing, but sometimes lots of little things occurring are more than just coincidence and are as simple as it sounds. I know this organization has shit the bed on the draft and several moves/acquisitions over our young history which would lead to a pessimistic attitude. To say that Paul coming to Charlotte is a pipe dream or not possible after what we saw happen in the past 2 weeks with our player movement is very emo and playing the victim.

EDIT: I read the full article off of RGM and all that I see is him stating that he does not want to play there at the start of the season and that he wants to team up with another superstar or two like what happened in Miami. No mention of specific teams (Knicks, Lakers, Magic) and it seems like the "rumors" are people connecting dots to big market teams like what happened in Miami.

[Muttley]

I think Amps point about tampering is being overlooked here. Paul and Melo are both contracted players, any word of bobcat involvement in planning about this and tamper charges could be around the corner.

It makes too much sense to me. I believe. You guys are killing me with this Cleveland Browns attitude... aww shucks we suck , we'll never get good players here in Charlotte bull crap.

We got Jordan. Jordan is a winner.

Shoe deals, Jordan Brand, south east rivalry going on with Miami CLT and Orlando all in the same conference each playing each other 4 times a year. It'd be great for the NBA. Bobcats games sold out. Its a great decision for everyone involved. Jordan and the Bobcats make money, win games and contend for championships, NO and Denver dont lose their star players for absolutely nothing in free agency. Most of all the New York Knicks get left at the alter and who wouldnt love to see that.
AMP, Mustachio, Beagle, Polar, et al, pour me some more of that Kool-Aid! I didn't believe the rumors from weeks past, but after hearing that he's asking to get out, it's too difficult to not hope. The "Cleveland Browns" comment is right on. Let's cut this woe-is-me stuff. It could happen.

I just would much rather it happen with Jackson instead of Wallace.

[BRNC]

My advise (about CP3 coming here) don't hold your breath...we do not have what he is looking for so give it up...

I think Chef started a thread "We need to look some where other than CP3" and I agree 100%...

[stun704]

My advise (about CP3 coming here) don't hold your breath...we do not have what he is looking for so give it up...

I think Chef started a thread "We need to look some where other than CP3" and I agree 100%...
Its CP3 or bust, this is what makes or breaks franchises, We gotta believe in order to achieve :biggrin: and not accept mediocrity anymore and aggressively aim for the best.

[Fred Williamson]

what makes people think, Paul wants to "come home"? He doesn't care about home just like Bosh, Lebron, Wade and all other superstars. He's aiming a big market or a contender, and not a mess of a franchise like the Bobcats are.

CP3 won't come to Charlotte. Accept it.

[EC123]

The list that was leaked is all smoke screens

1) Charlotte has been rumored for the past week to be trading for CP3, every event that has transpired has been going towards Cha's favor in landing CP3.

2) I think CP3 dropped those names because they seem to be the "Givens" but in reality they don't have anything that NO would want.

3) NO has lost 75% of its leverage to load CP3 with a bad contract, with him demanding a trade. That means Dampiers contract has just became that much sexier, Damp can be traded for CP3 as a straight swap, and NO drops salary space which it desperately wanted.

4) NC is his home state, he spends a lot of his time in charlotte during the off season, was even present during the playoff games this year, He even stated it would be a dream to play in Charlotte... is part of the Jordan brand, yet his home state isn't even mentioned? its all smoke and mirrors.

5) Bobcats can offer cap relief without gutting its roster... IF we traded for CP3 for Damp straight up, then parlayed a package for melo, we would automatically become as good as the heat.

I did consider this, but one must also consider that Paul would make one last attempt to get to NY with Stoudamire who has been pushing for Paul to come there for weeks. If it's smoke and mirrors, then maybe this is Paul's way of letting Amare know that he "tried."

With that said, the Knicks could package Felton and someone else for Paul. Signing Felton actually probably helped them in the Paul sweepstakes, unless NO doesn't want Felton's contract.

[stun704]

I did consider this, but one must also consider that Paul would make one last attempt to get to NY with Stoudamire who has been pushing for Paul to come there for weeks. If it's smoke and mirrors, then maybe this is Paul's way of letting Amare know that he "tried."

With that said, the Knicks could package Felton and someone else for Paul. Signing Felton actually probably helped them in the Paul sweepstakes, unless NO doesn't want Felton's contract.
Honestly if nash couldn't get it done with Amar'e CP3 won't be able to ethier, if NYK gets CP3 via trade they have to trade basically all of their roster, You really think Cp3 would think him and amar'e plus d-leagures would be able to go the distance? its too late in the off-season to gut your roster for FA's

[EC123]

Honestly if nash couldn't get it done with Amar'e CP3 won't be able to ethier...

I've said the same.

However, I believe the intent is to get Paul in NY and then have Carmelo join them there. I don't think they have to "package their entire team" to get Chris Paul, particularly when some people think the Bobcats could trade Dampier's contract for Paul, which I'm not too sure of.

At the very least, I think Felton + another player or two would get the Knicks Paul.

[Proudiddy]

My advise (about CP3 coming here) don't hold your breath...we do not have what he is looking for so give it up...

I think Chef started a thread "We need to look some where other than CP3" and I agree 100%...

Do you have any info that would suggest that he's NOT coming here. Also, if I'm not mistaken, it's up to the Hornets' front office to decide where he goes, b/c they have to ensure they get the best returns for their franchise - and if we have that, then we'll land him. I'm not sure we'll get him, and I can't decide whether I'm half-full or half-empty on the scenario.

I really hope this is all really a part of the bigger plan to get him here to Charlotte this off-season. And I admit, I hope I'm not naive in believing that everything that has happened to this point was done with the goal of getting Paul in mind.

One question though, we can't give up TT in a trade b/c he just signed a contract right?

[stun704]

I've said the same.

However, I believe the intent is to get Paul in NY and then have Carmelo join them there. I don't think they have to "package their entire team" to get Chris Paul, particularly when some people think the Bobcats could trade Dampier's contract for Paul, which I'm not too sure of.

At the very least, I think Felton + another player or two would get the Knicks Paul.
Doubt it, the hornets don't want a starting level PG back for paul, why trade him and get a horrible version in comparison? Dampier is more appealing then anything the knicks can offer because they can shed salary straight up.

[EC123]

Doubt it, the hornets don't want a starting level PG back for paul, why trade him and get a horrible version in comparison? Dampier is more appealing then anything the knicks can offer because they can shed salary straight up.

I'm aware of the appeal of Dampier's contract. Wouldn't disagree with most of that.

[rsxnova]

How pissed do you think Dallas is about this. CP3 is not for trade, so lets trade for TC:facepalm:.

[ziggy]

5) Bobcats can offer cap relief without gutting its roster... IF we traded for CP3 for Damp straight up, then parlayed a package for melo, we would automatically become as good as the heat.

Quoting this, because it is the most beautiful statement that I have ever seen. :cool:

[bbh2020]

Guys,

remember, it will not be up to CP3 where he goes. when teams are for sale, they usually dump as much salary as possible, mostly their long term contracts. that is the main reason we sent mek to no last year, because the team was up for sale and needed to be attractive to buyers.

we are the only team that can offer them immediate salary relief, but i'm sure we would have to take back mek and possibly posey or peja in the deal.

[spectre]

I think this is a great sign. Sure we're not one of the teams mentioned, but I think if we got thrown in there and being the lone team without a superstar in place it would raise an eyebrow or two.

Paul is Jordan brand. Paul's arse was parked beside MJ next to the bench during our playoff games. The other owners already voiced their concerns about MJ having undue influence, so it's not like they're not leary of it already.

We easily trump what those 3 teams can offer...INSTANT cap relief is one heckuva chip. Plus we can also give them an expiring/young talent for Okafor.

Cautiously optimistic.

[ohara831]

The list that was leaked is all smoke screens

1) Charlotte has been rumored for the past week to be trading for CP3, every event that has transpired has been going towards Cha's favor in landing CP3.

2) I think CP3 dropped those names because they seem to be the "Givens" but in reality they don't have anything that NO would want.

3) NO has lost 75% of its leverage to load CP3 with a bad contract, with him demanding a trade. That means Dampiers contract has just became that much sexier, Damp can be traded for CP3 as a straight swap, and NO drops salary space which it desperately wanted.

4) NC is his home state, he spends a lot of his time in charlotte during the off season, was even present during the playoff games this year, He even stated it would be a dream to play in Charlotte... is part of the Jordan brand, yet his home state isn't even mentioned? its all smoke and mirrors.

5) Bobcats can offer cap relief without gutting its roster... IF we traded for CP3 for Damp straight up, then parlayed a package for melo, we would automatically become as good as the heat.

All very good points. Cautiously optimistic about this right now. But I still feel very uneasy about the Knicks ability to get him. A Paul, Amare, Melo led Knicks would be very formidable.

[blazenheat09]

2 points to add onto the previous arguments

1. The notion that Paul does not want to come home is complete bull crap. I'm not saying he absolutely wants to come back to NC but he is involved in a lot of stuff in the area suggesting he wouldn't mind returning. His point guard camp in Winston Salem along with constant travel back into the region. Hell, he was here a few weeks ago at the Dell Curry golf tournament in Davidson.

2. The idea saying Felton was a good trade piece for the Knicks is stupid. One of the main advantages for the Hornets in trading Paul (if there are any) is to allow for the development Collison at the point and Felton would stunt that. Why trade have Felton play ahead of Darren especially if they are nowhere close to playoff contention?

That is all

[BRNC]

proudiddy...I have no "proof" that CP3 is coming here or not coming here...I'm simply going by what "he" reportedly said...so not coming here is IMO more likely...I have no proof he is not coming here but I'd rather not build a team on someone coming here that has given no indication that we are in their plans...

[Mustachio]

proudiddy...I have no "proof" that CP3 is coming here or not coming here...I'm simply going by what "he" reportedly said...so not coming here is IMO more likely...I have no proof he is not coming here but I'd rather not build a team on someone coming here that has given no indication that we are in their plans...


What plans? Chris Paul is a contracted player dude. His plans dont mean anything. If New Orleans wants to trade him to the Shangai Knights they can do it. Every step of this process that the two guys (james/ourday) outlined weeks ago has come true. Have a little faith in the Jordan.

Its happening, whether all you Cleveland Bobcat fans wanna believe or not.

[kickazzz2000]

Great...the exit strategy news is all over sportscenter this morning.

[Demon DeaCat]

we are the only team that can offer them immediate salary relief, but i'm sure we would have to take back mek and possibly posey or peja in the deal.

Not exactly. Both Cle and Tor have TPE's worth 14.5 mil. That's not enough to cover CP's salary, but assuming Mek would be a part of the package, it's enough to cover his.

However, we are the only team in the NBA that can offer the combination of instant salary relief and an all-star. I'd love to keep GW out of any potential deal, but it's a chip worth using if that's what it takes to get CP. No team could trump that package.

And to those who would say it's not worth it if he skips town in 2 years, I'd say it is. Even if he want's to leave and sign with the Knicks in '12, we'd at least have an asset for a S&T that could provide us with a sizeable TPE and replace some of the picks we've traded away in recent years.

[dnbman]

What plans? Chris Paul is a contracted player dude. His plans dont mean anything.

True, but a team is only going to offer NO so much without knowing that they have a chance to resign Paul at the end of his contract. I think Charlotte is one of those teams, but if it wasn't NC and we didn't have Jordan, I wouldn't be optimistic about us acquiring him.

As we are in NC and we do have Jordan, I'm excited to say the least. Trying not to get hopes up.

[BRNC]

mustachio...he is under contract...I agree 100%...but I think (to some degree) the Hornets are going to consider what he wants if they trade him...for me...I'm more disappointed that we did not seem to be a place he "desires" to play...but again...I agree 100% that the Hornets can trade him here if they want to...I just question what kind of "team" we'll have after if that occurs and he (CP3) has not put pressure on the Hornets to make this one of his "destinations of choice"...

I have no idea who (other than Dampier) we'd have to send to them or take back...and without that information I'm clueless as to what kind of "team" we might actually have...so I'd rather the FO become more aggressive shopping Dampier and find other options and not hope the Hornets will "play ball"...

[kickazzz2000]

mustachio...he is under contract...I agree 100%...but I think (to some degree) so I'd rather the FO become more aggressive shopping Dampier and find other options and not hope the Hornets will "play ball"...

No inside sources, just a hunch, but don't be surprised to hear a leak in the next few days. Jordan will make NO think twice about missing out on Dampier's contract.

[polarcat]

Honestly I don't think it will take G Force or Jax to get Paul. I think Damp + DJ / Livingston + some other non-core piece (Diaw) will get it done. NO needs $$ off the books and the more publicity this gets in the media, the less leverage the Hornets have. I do believe Ourday and James's rumors last week and there are too many coincidences and smokescreen abound right now. Jordan and the Cats leaked false rumors with Calderon and whose to say that this isn't more of it to cover their asses on tampering? It can go either way, but I believe it's very plausible and there is more reason to believe than not right now.

[Mustachio]

mustachio...he is under contract...I agree 100%...but I think (to some degree) the Hornets are going to consider what he wants if they trade him...for me...I'm more disappointed that we did not seem to be a place he "desires" to play...but again...I agree 100% that the Hornets can trade him here if they want to...I just question what kind of "team" we'll have after if that occurs and he (CP3) has not put pressure on the Hornets to make this one of his "destinations of choice"...

I have no idea who (other than Dampier) we'd have to send to them or take back...and without that information I'm clueless as to what kind of "team" we might actually have...so I'd rather the FO become more aggressive shopping Dampier and find other options and not hope the Hornets will "play ball"...

but again, you cant take what those teams that were mentioned as gospel truth. First of all I havent seen where Chris Paul actually mentioned anyteams. I in fact dotn think he can. again tampering fines and punishment looms over this with one suspicious comment.

Chris Paul was at a Bobcats playoff game beside Jordan, the guy who signs his shoe checks. I think theres more interest than a lot of people realize. Home town team, up and coming roster, in the same division as the Heat and Magic. If Paul has a lick of competive juice in him... he will wanna see those teams 4 times a year.

[BRNC]

I think the only way to "force" the NO front office is if names like Tony Parker or Baron Davis are in conversations...Dampier is a real asset and we need to take advantage of it with as many options as possible...that's all I'm saying...as much as I like CP3 I'd just as soon have Parker or Davis if we can keep the rest (mostly) of the team together...and I have not heard we are pursuing either Parker or Davis just using them to make a point...

I want an upgrade over Ray and IMO Dampier (his contract) gives us that chance...I do not want to see the team dismantled and really don't want us trading the young assets (Hendo and UPS) that we have...

[BRNC]

mustachio...sorry...your post went up a little before mine and I just read it...

I agree...all the "teams" that have been reported are supposed "leaks" from his camp...not him because (you're correct) he would be fined...

I'm advocating that we put ourselves in the position of forcing the Hornets hand by having other (very good) alternatives or we could end up with no "team" around CP3 even if we could/did get him...IMO if we start conversation with teams for players like T. Parker the Hornets will get off the pot...and if we actually have an alternative like Parker we will not be "forced" to give half the team away to get CP3...

I just want to see us (Bobcats) be really smart on this one...Dampier is a great asset so I hope we maximize it...not minimize it as they've done in the past...

[spectre]

Honestly I don't think it will take G Force or Jax to get Paul. I think Damp + DJ / Livingston + some other non-core piece (Diaw) will get it done. NO needs $$ off the books and the more publicity this gets in the media, the less leverage the Hornets have. I do believe Ourday and James's rumors last week and there are too many coincidences and smokescreen abound right now. Jordan and the Cats leaked false rumors with Calderon and whose to say that this isn't more of it to cover their asses on tampering? It can go either way, but I believe it's very plausible and there is more reason to believe than not right now.

I don't think they'll want Crash either. If they trade Paul they're wanting to go cheap salarywise with young players.

Agreed on believing the rumors too. IMO their scenario makes the most sense.

[ohara831]

YOu know, we missed out on all the excitement on the Draft and who we wanted, etc.. But this off season is really getting exciting. I just hope it is not all for nothing. Any serious upgrade will give the fans hope the Cats can compete strong against Miami and Orlando.

[spectre]

http://twitter.com/Oneandonlycp3/status/12777649623

Would someone who doesn't have twitter blocked post the contents?

Saw it on RGM's trade board posted by Fred Williamson...who I think is our very own Schnitzel?

I read it this AM and figured y'all would like to see it.

[UNCCatFan]

I don't care what anybody says about Stephen Jackson...he's one of my fav players in the @NBA...

-chris paul


wow, i like the sound of that

[ohara831]

Geeesh! This is starting to get my hopes up! OK Mr. Paul, time to come home now!

[kickazzz2000]

I don't care what anybody says about Stephen Jackson...he's one of my fav players in the @NBA...

-chris paul


wow, i like the sound of that

Of note, that tweet was three months ago...but still good to hear...

[UNCCatFan]

Of note, that tweet was three months ago...but still good to hear...

that is true, but still, it is encouraging

[spectre]

Assuming we're after him (and the previous rumors are true) you know darn well Paul knows we'll go after Melo if we can get him. With Paul saying he likes Jax I can't see why we wouldn't be a destination he'd be happy to hook up with.

Add becoming a home state hero on top of that.

[Toocool]

Okay, let's look it from a distance.

Aim: To get CP3.
Reaction if aim is achieved: Amazing partying. Then pursuing of the marshMELow
Conclusion: Almost a complete win situation. Drinks all round.

Let's take it from a logical perspective.

What does CP3 want? He wants to be on a team that will BUILD AROUND HIM and challenge for a championship. He's disgruntled in NO and although he has put pressure on the Front office, they haven't taken into account his opinion. Lack of stability also, and a weak team (West, OK50, not exactly the strongest you have)

What do we want? CP3

How do we get CP3? Key man is Dampier. His contract.

Why is Dampier attractive to NO? Cos the idiot owner wants to sell NO. For the team to be attractive to prospective buyers, there can't be that many contracts on the team. They are loaded already with Posey and OK50. Clearing CP3 will be massive for the prospects of selling the team.

Why CP3 may want to come to CHA?
a) He knows that once we get him, we will pursue 'Melo HARD.
b) If we get him, we are able to trade Melo for Crash and other young talent (UPS, DJ, Hendo)
c) It is his home town state
d) He loves Cpt. Jack
e) Jordan Brand
f) He probably would love to learn under LB

What stands in the way?
Hornets Front Office.

The facts are there. It is completely viable that we are able to get CP3. HOWEVER, it is mainly up to the Hornets FO to make the decision. We can only pray.

However, if this does work out, I would love to see this team with CP3, Jack, Melo, TT, Nazzy. That's a strong team right there.

[TrytoCompete]

I do know that paul will be gone. He wants to be on a winner and Shinn won't buy a winner. He is always looking to save a buck. I think that would be so crazy if we could get paul and melo but I doubt it. Melo is about to sign extension in DENVER as far as I know.

[spectre]

I do know that paul will be gone. He wants to be on a winner and Shinn won't buy a winner. He is always looking to save a buck. I think that would be so crazy if we could get paul and melo but I doubt it. Melo is about to sign extension in DENVER as far as I know.

He very well might.

Isn't it interesting tho how Paul's thoughts have been relayed to the media (thru "sources") right before Melo signed said extension?

Melo's been delaying, and it's not because of money.

[TyHill]

I do know that paul will be gone. He wants to be on a winner and Shinn won't buy a winner. He is always looking to save a buck. I think that would be so crazy if we could get paul and melo but I doubt it. Melo is about to sign extension in DENVER as far as I know.

Melo isnt signing anything until all this settles I believe.

[UNCCatFan]

I do know that paul will be gone. He wants to be on a winner and Shinn won't buy a winner. He is always looking to save a buck. I think that would be so crazy if we could get paul and melo but I doubt it. Melo is about to sign extension in DENVER as far as I know.

he was offered an extension a few weeks ago and turned it down already. that kinda says something to me

[TrytoCompete]

from denver post, talks about how billups expects to play alongside melo next year and that he will sign.

http://www.denverpost.com/nuggets/ci_15563763

[UNCCatFan]

from denver post, talks about how billups expects to play alongside melo next year and that he will sign.

http://www.denverpost.com/nuggets/ci_15563763

"sources say"

[spectre]

Lot's of "hope" in that article. :cool:

[TrytoCompete]

I mean I hope I'm wrong and that we get paul and melo. Does paul have the ability to shoot down trades to places he doesnt want to go to????

[G Wuh Wuh Wuh Wallace]

Even if the Melo part of this doesn't fall our roster is still

CP3
JAX
TT
G-force
Nazzzz

That is damn competitive in itself and it looks more like the defensive team that Larry Brown would like on the court, truth be told I would rather we keep wallace call me sentimental. I don't want to see Okafor back here but at the same time we could do a lot worse taking on contracts (see Diop). At least we would have a contributor in Okafor. Regardless I am pumped I wonder what the time table on all this is. Haven't heard from James in a while........:g:

[spectre]

I mean I hope I'm wrong and that we get paul and melo. Does paul have the ability to shoot down trades to places he doesnt want to go to????

No, but he can let it be known whether he'd bolt the new team at the first opportunity...which would obviously lower the "out" package that team would most likely be willing to send.

[spectre]

Even if the Melo part of this doesn't fall our roster is still

CP3
JAX
TT
G-force
Nazzzz

That is damn competitive in itself and it looks more like the defensive team that Larry Brown would like on the court, truth be told I would rather we keep wallace call me sentimental. I don't want to see Okafor back here but at the same time we could do a lot worse taking on contracts (see Diop). At least we would have a contributor in Okafor. Regardless I am pumped I wonder what the time table on all this is. Haven't heard from James in a while........:g:

In the scenario put forth we'd be sending Nazr in the package to acquire Okafor, but yeah...not too shabby.

Might as well go all in though! :p

[Chef]

simmons on tweet had an interesting take: paul and oak for rondo, perkins, sheed's contract + #1. if they offered that, how could NO say no?

but if it is only about $$$, us cle and toronto are the the best players. and cle and tor would most likely have to be out. small market, terrible and gutted teams.

[Mustachio]

Even if the Melo part of this doesn't fall our roster is still

CP3
JAX
TT
G-force
Nazzzz

That is damn competitive in itself and it looks more like the defensive team that Larry Brown would like on the court, truth be told I would rather we keep wallace call me sentimental. I don't want to see Okafor back here but at the same time we could do a lot worse taking on contracts (see Diop). At least we would have a contributor in Okafor. Regardless I am pumped I wonder what the time table on all this is. Haven't heard from James in a while........:g:


In my opinion getting Okafor back in the deal, is just as good as any of it.

Look when we send Gerald out of here for Melo, we are gonna take a bit of a defensive hit. And if Nazr or Diop is our starting center... we really wont be that threating of a team. with Okafor back we have a much more solid team.

Think about it. Okafor came to an expansion franchise, got drafted next to Dwight Howard and the expectations were too large. He isnt the freak of nature player. but when your back court is as good as ours could be with CP3/Jax/Melo... you dont have to have a shaq back there to compete.

I think Okafor would be a much more determined and driven player if he has the chance to play on a championship team. Either way you know hes bringing a double double every night, and you know hes gonna alter a few shots and suck down a bunch of those rebounds that we will miss out on with Crash. Then you have Tyrus being the atheltic freak.. they guy who is gonna run the other PF to death and jump with CP3 for oops. It sets up to be a very very stable solid team across the board. We would have offense coming out of our ears, and with LB's system and coaching our defense is gonna be pretty damn spot on too.

CP3 / Jax / Melo / Tyrus / Okafor

is better in my opinion than ..

? / Wade / Bron / Bosh / ?

[BRNC]

I would not be opposed to EO50 coming back...I'd have to be concerned about his relationship with LB...but that would be my only concern...we know his limitations but he'd (if CP3 came) probably be playing on a much better team than he left...

[LiquidWayno]

I think we are a contender in the CP3 race. I won't even dream of Melo. In a perfect world, we would bring both of them in and keep Crash. If we bring in CP3 w/out losing Crash or Jax I would instantly have faith in the good of mankind.

[G Wuh Wuh Wuh Wallace]

It is peculiar to me we have been very "loud" to say the least with the rest of our trades.....rumors, leaks, misinformation, etc. But we have been deathly silent in all of the CP3 talk except of course here on BCP thanks to james. In my mind that means we are keeping this all a secret and broadcasting misinformation about other opportunities to fly under the radar. As previously stated when you bring all the parallels involved at this point suddenly charlotte makes A LOT of sense both to the Bobcats, to NO front office, and to CP3 (although that doesn't matter so much in regards to a trade). Even if we don't get this done you all have to admit the Bobcats FO is really making an effort which is a pretty good feeling, i would rather us attempt at this blockbuster then sit back and let opportunity pass us by while we continue to be mediocre at best. As much as i love last years teams's "underdog" mentality in reality in todays NBA the real competitors have a "star". Gerald Wallace is a great player and a true bobcat. But he is not the piece to build this team around. CP3 is.

[Felton for Prez]

I'd love to see MJ play the role of Pat Reily in this situation. Even though the 3 guys in Miami considered it, Pat is the one that believed in it, convinced those guys it was do-able and ultimately executed on it. Does MJ really believe in this option for the 'cats? Unclear.

MJ could sell CP3 and Melo on playing together, on what would be a contender (if you believe some of the listed rosters) and what he could do for them with the Jordan brand.

I admit, I didn't put a lot of faith in the whole "guys would love to come play for MJ" thing but I honestly think this is a situation where it works. Now, I highly doubt it happens, but there are a lot of things about this pie in the sky scenario that actually make sense. Let's hope the stars are actually align and it happens.

[G Wuh Wuh Wuh Wallace]

Side note: Imagine actually getting to watch the Bobcats on National T.V for once? :funkybanana::clapping:

[ziggy]

Wood... this thread gives me wood. :biggrin:

[Proudiddy]

Wood... this thread gives me wood. :biggrin:

INDEED!!! MASSIVE WOOD!


...

Let us change the thread name to The CP3 to Charlotte Collective Massive Wood Thread.

[Felton for Prez]

Wood... this thread gives me wood. :biggrin:

Ditto. So do strip clubs and look how that ends up at the end of the night (for most of us)

[CatNation]

our backup plan is waiving dampier. Theres no B-Diddy, Tony Parker, Ben Gordon back up plan. Jordan won't put this team millions over the lux for those guys, nor should we expect him to. I imagine its CP3 or bust

[BETCATS]

our backup plan is waiving dampier. Theres no B-Diddy, Tony Parker, Ben Gordon back up plan. Jordan won't put this team millions over the lux for those guys, nor should we expect him to. I imagine its CP3 or bust
You are probably right.

Just a warning: the Nets went Lebron or bust....and ended up with Travis Outlaw.

[spectre]

our backup plan is waiving dampier. Theres no B-Diddy, Tony Parker, Ben Gordon back up plan. Jordan won't put this team millions over the lux for those guys, nor should we expect him to. I imagine its CP3 or bust

Agreed, and I wouldn't want him paying 80 million in salary just for the pleasure of taking on those deals as I don't see anything gained other than more mediocrity.

I love me some Tony Parker though.

[kickazzz2000]

Wood... this thread gives me wood. :biggrin:


hey man...thats patented vernacular



but you're welcome to use it any time :D

[Mustachio]

Agreed, and I wouldn't want him paying 80 million in salary just for the pleasure of taking on those deals as I don't see anything gained other than more mediocrity.

I love me some Tony Parker though.


Im ok with Parker... but then again i've grown tired of the Charlotte French National Team aka Bobcats.

different direction please... one with less surrender involved.

[Proudiddy]

Broussard is reporting CP3 will meet with the team within the next week to discuss his future, if they can't convince him they're going to be contenders, he'll request a trade to the Knicks, Mavs, Blazers, or Magic.

EDIT: Now Broussard says odds are whatever NO's FO has to say won't change his mind on leaving.

[kickazzz2000]

Broussard is reporting CP3 will meet with the team within the next week to discuss his future, if they can't convince him they're going to be contenders, he'll request a trade to the Knicks, Mavs, Blazers, or Magic.

EDIT: Now Broussard says odds are whatever NO's FO has to say won't change his mind on leaving.

remind me ( my memory is short and I only half paid attention): was broussard one of the ones insisting lebaby to miami or did he change positions several times?

[Proudiddy]

remind me ( my memory is short and I only half paid attention): was broussard one of the ones insisting lebaby to miami or did he change positions several times?

Yeah, he changed his mind several times until the day before, when he got a report from Lebron's camp that he chose the Heat. Up until then, he was all over the place, usually saying he was gonna go to the Bulls and the Cavs were 2nd IIRC.

[dnbman]

The idea of Paul not mentioning Charlotte to avoid tampering charges is pretty interesting. Though, the Hornets would know and could expose the Bobcats if Jordan and Paul had reached some kind of arrangement. Of course, if they were the beneficiary, who would care?

[sugarfree311]

I wouldn't take any supposed list of teams too seriously. Anyone remember what Jack's reported list was when he demanded a trade last year? Cleveland, the Texas teams and New York. How did that end up?

I'm convinced the media just throws new york on any list they hear/make up.

[CatNation]

I wouldn't take any supposed list of teams too seriously. Anyone remember what Jack's reported list was when he demanded a trade last year? Cleveland, the Texas teams and New York. How did that end up?

I'm convinced the media just throws new york on any list they hear/make up.

ahh you just beat me, I was gonna mention Jack. He had a list and a demand for a contender, and outta nowhere he was announced to be traded here. I was shocked when that happened it really came out of nowhere. Maybe this will too. Franchises don't care about your list, they care about what they will get. I will say we have a very good package to offer, but the only way we can beat a Blazers or Mavs package would be including Crash..

[Proudiddy]

James the Aussie mentioned on the ROF board that 'New Orleans liked our deal once, why wouldn't they like it again?" or something along those lines...

That gives me some hope, as I believe we did have something going on before, but most likely b/c of their lack of a GM it died.

[jazzer89]

anybody remember when stephen jackson demanded a trade to the "contenders" and wait where did he end up? HERE he ended up coming to NC so i dont care where Paul wants to go its all up to the Hornets FO. that FO determines where he goes not Paul

[Demon DeaCat]

How pissed do you think Dallas is about this. CP3 is not for trade, so lets trade for TC:facepalm:.

Of course espn is now reporting that Dallas is on CP's short list. How dumb would we feel if they end up trading TC for CP.

[G Wuh Wuh Wuh Wallace]

Of course espn is now reporting that Dallas is on CP's short list. How dumb would we feel if they end up trading TC for CP.

On the contrary I think that's exactly why we traded him, I think tyson chandler is exactly the piece NO didn't want and we found that out early incidentally we traded for dampier to give us a similar chip because the Mavs were convinced they couldn't get CP3 with damp. The thing is we have a lot more assets to our disposal with damps contract then the Mavs did.

[SWedd523]

I hate to brag, but I remember somebody starting the more official rumor rumblings a few weeks ago when they broke news that CP3 and MJ were having a meeting to possibly talk about coming to town. Now who was that?


Oh yeah! Me! That's right folks. When he get officially traded to the Cats I'll take thank you cards, blow jobs, and money. PM for payment details or other offers.

[kickazzz2000]

I wonder what Coward said...


zdp5000 wow colin cowherd dissed charlotte #bobcats #chrispaul #cp3
about 2 hours ago via TweetDeck

[CatNation]

cowherds a loser but I'd totally renounce my Bobcats fandom if thats what it took to tag Michelle Beadle...

[teej]

cowherds a loser but I'd totally renounce my Bobcats fandom if thats what it took to tag Michelle Beadle...

damnnnnn straight.

No Comment on the CP3 mess though.

[spectre]

No Comment on the CP3 mess though.

:g:









10 char

[BlockParty]

Melo isnt signing anything until all this settles I believe.

Melo isn't just concerned with what CP3 does. He is concerned with Karl's health and who is coach will be in Denver. Remember Denver silently imploded last season when Karl went on medical leave.

Only reason Melo signs an extension this summer is to get as much money in his pocket now in case of a lockout next season.

[Lewey]

Don't forget if Okafor is included in this, it can't happen until the 28th. One year after he was traded. Maybe, just maybe, all this will happen after the 28th. :g:

[BlockParty]

Do we add the Jumpman23 logo to the court now or wait until after trading for CP3 and Melo?

[BlockParty]

Don't forget if Okafor is included in this, it can't happen until the 28th. One year after he was traded. Maybe, just maybe, all this will happen after the 28th. :g:

this was bounced around somewhere else on the site. I don't think the 28th is a deadline, you aren't allowed to be traded back to your same team during the same year (year meaning the NBA's year from July to June) we are in a different "NBA year" as of July 1st so I think the trigger can be pulled at anytime.

..more realistically if they included Carroll and/or Najera in the trade with Damp, they would need to wait 60 days from that trade date.

[spectre]

Don't forget if Okafor is included in this, it can't happen until the 28th. One year after he was traded. Maybe, just maybe, all this will happen after the 28th. :g:

Excellent point.

[kickazzz2000]

[CONSPIRACY THEORY]

This was all the plan to begin with. The deal can't go down til the 28th anyway (Okafor can't be moved back) so this bought NOH some time to save face...CP3 publically demanding a trade, doesn't make the organization look as bad. Imagine if they had just moved him out of the blue like the rumor was last week?

[/CONSPIRACY THEORY]

Never mind, what BlockParty just posted contradicts this...

[BlockParty]

this is from http://members.cox.net/lmcoon/salarycap.htm

go down to #88

"A team cannot reacquire a player they traded away during that season (a season being July 1 - June 30) unless the player has been waived. Note: this does not apply to draft picks. If a team trades a player's draft rights, they can reacquire the player during the same season. "

[GOBOBCATS24]

It is true because of that. People are thinking the one year rule July 28th, that would only apply if we had traded in the end of June last year. The maximum you have to wait to trade for a player that you traded away is 364 days (leap year 365) July 28th doesn't mean a thing in any of these circumstances. Just reiterating statements made by others.

[kickazzz2000]

I stepped back from the computer for a bit and thought about this.

None of the teams on the so-called "list" (which excludes LAL and now include POR and DAL) make any sense, except for MAYBE POR.

It's all going to depend on what direction the NO front office will go in. If they want talent for talent, it's not going to be us, sorry, it might not be anybody by the start of the season.

But those of us that have been around since the Hornets days KNOW George Shinn...when has he EVER been reluctant to trade a SUPERSTAR and/or team's best player for salary relief. Zo, LJ, Glen Rice, Eddie Jones, Baron Davis...the list is long...but distinguished.

Well, so's my Johnson, but heres the rub...Shinn is in sell off mode. If he truly wants the best financial return, everything we have been reading is it's us, Toronto, and someone else (can't recall off the top of my head).

My guess is Shinn is going to want to get financial relief and as much cheap (rookie deal) talent that he can...while Jordan is probably trying to get away with giving up as little young talent as possible. Will it take Augustin AND Henderson AND Brown? Or just two of the tree? Just one? How bad does Shinn need the IMMEDIATE relief of not only Dampier's contract being gone, but Okafor's too.

Think about it....expiring contracts in the NBA are like high cards in spades. Jordan's got the ace of spades in his hand.

[Lewey]

this is from http://members.cox.net/lmcoon/salarycap.htm

go down to #88

"A team cannot reacquire a player they traded away during that season (a season being July 1 - June 30) unless the player has been waived. Note: this does not apply to draft picks. If a team trades a player's draft rights, they can reacquire the player during the same season. "

Well that just blew my conspiracy theory to hell :biggrin:

[spectre]

More Broussard:

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=5401230

[ebrown]

that whole article is relying on sources, so how reliable can it truly be?

[Ampsportsduo]

I think everyone understands now that a) Chris Paul will be traded b) this team covets CP c) The Cats have the pieces to be in the discussion for his services. Given these three assumptions, I want to pose a question:

Is it worth trading for CP knowing that the team may not re-sign him, even if it means that the team would be set back due the loss of CP (and the absence of whatever was traded)?

I say, yes, emphatically. If Orlando is able to make the trade for CP, he'll never play for our team. He'll pair up with D-Ho and the team will have the best shot blocker and thief (stealer?) in the league and a dynamic pick and roll game. It will be the Suns but with a stout defense. Orlando + Miami in the division will render the Cats largely irrelevant for the next 5 years.

The same could be said for NY. If he goes there, it may be too difficult for Melo to ignore (esp. with his wifey from NY).

The team should be willing to pony up more than those other teams (or have more to pony up in the Knicks case) because likely the only chance that the team has is to bring him in through trade when he doesn't have the final say. That's not to say that he doesn't want to be here, but we all acknowledge the team would have to make some moves between now and the end of his contract to encourage him to re-sign. If CP3 feels like the team is positioned to make a championship run I'd be shocked if he didn't re-sign with Michael. The most important part is to get him in a Cats uniform before he teams up with another star elsewhere.

[spectre]

Well said and I totally agree.

[Felton for Prez]

We could always work out a sign and trade with the Knicks (or whomever). That way we're not left holding an empty bag.

If LeBron and Bosh can make that happen, so can CP3.

[Mustachio]

I think everyone understands now that a) Chris Paul will be traded b) this team covets CP c) The Cats have the pieces to be in the discussion for his services. Given these three assumptions, I want to pose a question:

Is it worth trading for CP knowing that the team may not re-sign him, even if it means that the team would be set back due the loss of CP (and the absence of whatever was traded)?

I say, yes, emphatically. If Orlando is able to make the trade for CP, he'll never play for our team. He'll pair up with D-Ho and the team will have the best shot blocker and thief (stealer?) in the league and a dynamic pick and roll game. It will be the Suns but with a stout defense. Orlando + Miami in the division will render the Cats largely irrelevant for the next 5 years.

The same could be said for NY. If he goes there, it may be too difficult for Melo to ignore (esp. with his wifey from NY).

The team should be willing to pony up more than those other teams (or have more to pony up in the Knicks case) because likely the only chance that the team has is to bring him in through trade when he doesn't have the final say. That's not to say that he doesn't want to be here, but we all acknowledge the team would have to make some moves between now and the end of his contract to encourage him to re-sign. If CP3 feels like the team is positioned to make a championship run I'd be shocked if he didn't re-sign with Michael. The most important part is to get him in a Cats uniform before he teams up with another star elsewhere.


Totally agree. Not to mention, I think a CP3 / Jax / Melo / TT / Okafor lineup is good enough to compete right now and that would make resigning with the Bobcats an easy sell. I think that starting 5 looks better than what Miami has with ? / Wade/ Bron / Bosh / ?.

[Ampsportsduo]

We could always work out a sign and trade with the Knicks (or whomever). That way we're not left holding an empty bag.

If LeBron and Bosh can make that happen, so can CP3.

Great point

[x2pacalypse]

honestly i think i'd much rather have

cp3/jax/crash/TT/okafor
than
cp3/jax/melo/TT/okafor and no draft picks for the next 3050 years

[GoBobs]

I would also much rather keep Crash then add Melo. There is a lot of value to a player not needing the ball to impact the game.

[K1NGofAKR0N]

trade dampier and carrol for adnres biedrins. they got david lee now and im sure they wanna get rid of biedrens 4yr 9 mill contract

[kickazzz2000]

trade dampier and carrol for adnres biedrins. they got david lee now and im sure they wanna get rid of biedrens 4yr 9 mill contract

:fhb::fhb::fhb::fhb::fhb::fhb::fhb::fhb::fhb::fhb: :fhb::fhb::fhb::fhb::fhb::fhb::fhb::fhb:

[Black]

Biedrins cant stay healthy, and is probably going to end up looking like an awful contract by the end of next season.

[SWedd523]

:fhb:

HEY!




That's a fine ham biscuit.

[Felton for Prez]

I would also much rather keep Crash then add Melo. There is a lot of value to a player not needing the ball to impact the game.

Don't forget that getting Melo would help keep CP3.

I love Crash (and his contract) like everyone else and would hate to see him go but Melo would be an upgrade.

[Mustachio]

If we get CP3... Melo is coming too. and I cant imagine why anyone would ever protest that. boggles the mind even.

its the whole reasoning behind the trade. they wanna play together, and the Bobcats dont stand a chance in hell at winning with the current team... Soo yeah. Be bottom bitches in the Atlantic Division for the next 5 years with no chance of winning anything... OR make a power play right now and lose Crash. Easy freaking choice for me.

[kickazzz2000]

Would definitely get the bobcats on cable throughout NC...lol

[Black]

If we get CP3... Melo is coming too. and I cant imagine why anyone would ever protest that. boggles the mind even.

its the whole reasoning behind the trade. they wanna play together, and the Bobcats dont stand a chance in hell at winning with the current team... Soo yeah. Be bottom bitches in the Atlantic Division for the next 5 years with no chance of winning anything... OR make a power play right now and lose Crash. Easy freaking choice for me.

but, according to Butters, bottom bitch is the best bitch!

but seriously, if we have a shot at melo and paul, then sorry crash. youre my favorite player, but i think i could get used to CP3 and Melo pretty damn quick

[Marvel]

I would prefer Crash over Melo,but if it takes trading away our 1st ever all star to get CP3 here then............... i would still prefer Crash over Melo.

[Toocool]

Melo or Crash is a big question. I would love to get Melo, he's a brilliant scorer and with CP3, Jax and Melo either one of them could take over a game. However, we all know that we all love Crash. But this is an organisation, tough choices must be made. I didn't want to give up Felton (I loved the guy) but we had to give him up due to our cap situation. Jordan wants to make this team better. If it means trading Crash for Melo, he'll do it. It's about the future of the team and getting better in the objective of challenging for a championship.

[rsxnova]

If nothing else CP3, Sjax, and Crash are a damn fine big 3

[mrtarheel]

Read about the first 6 pages and couldn't take it anymore. NY can't trade Felton until at least 3 mths, LA will have to many guards and would have to give up to much which I can't see him in the triangle offense anyway, Orlando would have to gut there team and if that was the case we could still end up with some players as NO wouldn't want Nelson, Air France and maybe even Gortat. They could end up here and still sending Daimper to NO. So the looks of it seem good one way or another we have the prize and teams will come running. It is our price they have to pay. Went back and seen they mentioned Portland as well. That means the give up Andre Miller, a pg we can us at that 5 mill they just gave Matthews just bit them in the rear end.

[spectre]

Alex Kennedy:
(http://hoopshype.com/twitter_media.html)Source confirms that New York is Chris Paul's first option. Paul spoke with Amare Stoudemire two weeks ago about forcing a trade to Knicks (http://hoopshype.com/twitter_media.html). Twitter (http://hoopshype.com/twitter_media.html)

An interesting (but not good for us) fact I found out last night: since NY was under the cap when they made the trade with GSW for Randolph/Azibuike they can turn right around and trade those players even with others.

[Fred Williamson]

How must Raymond feel right now?

[spectre]

How must Raymond feel right now?

I'm much more worried about how we'll be if the FO strikes out with the Dampier gamble.

We'll probably end up trading Boris and a future 1st to NY for Felton knowing us (I'm sure there's rules/time restraints).

[Demon DeaCat]

I agree that the above news isn't good for us. I guess they'd package those 2 guys with Eddy Curry? The only thing is, that still doesn't allow them to take on Mek's contract, which we could. I have to think dumping Mek will be critical to Shinn's ability to complete the sale.

[Proudiddy]

The longer the talks go on and we’re not mentioned, I’m starting to lose hope that we even have a chance at getting him. I just think these marketing firms are taking the league over, and for them to get maximum exposure and money, they want their clients to go to big markets. As much as we want to believe that we have a chance b/c we’re his hometown team, I’m just thinking we’re dreaming at this point. I don’t expect us to get him being that it’s gone on this long and we’re still not considered contenders, although I hope I’m wrong - we're not getting him.

I think I'm going from unbridled anticipation and eagerness to see what kind of incredible team we have this year to now not really caring b/c I don't feel like watching NY and Miami on TV every fucking night. It's really starting to piss me off... Especially if the Mavs trade doesn't pay off, we're stuck with nothing and gave up our best big man, which may drop us out of playoff contention.

[Ampsportsduo]

Based on a lot of what's being written (some might call it rampant speculation) about the Hornets situation a team will have to take at least EO's contract and John Hollinger said it might take both EO and Posey's deal to get it done.

If it's cost cutting that they seek (not arguing that they're not concerned at all with adding picks/prospects) it will be short-term savings George Shinn is after. He knows he won't be owner in 2 years so he doesn't care about saving money down the road. He wants savings now.

The CP3 - Dampier trade would provide $15 million instant relief.
Posey and EO - Crash, Naz, and (DJ or Hendo) would provide $3 million.

$18 million instantly off the cap.

They will also be cutting more than $26 million off their cap number after next season, and the only remaining piece is an All-Star at a very reasonable $9 million.

It would be difficult for most of the "preferred" targets to take Paul and EO off the Hornets hands without gutting their team. The Bobcats could take both and an additional $6+ with Posey's deal.

[BlockParty]

The longer the talks go on and we’re not mentioned, I’m starting to lose hope that we even have a chance at getting him.

Not that Dampier or CP3 are in the same league on the court..but Dampier's contract is about as big a bargaining piece this summer outside of Lebron, Dwade, Amare and Bosh. And how much chatter was there about the Bobcats and Mavs trade before it happened? virtually none, heck Chandler was going to Toronto and Dallas was going after Al Jefferson.

our biggest competition for CP3 on the financial end is Cleveland and Toronto with their Trade exceptions, I don't think CP3 has to approve any trades, so his desires to be traded to particular teams hold about much weight as Ajinca's high school muscle shirt.

[Proudiddy]

Not that Dampier or CP3 are in the same league on the court..but Dampier's contract is about as big a bargaining piece this summer outside of Lebron, Dwade, Amare and Bosh. And how much chatter was there about the Bobcats and Mavs trade before it happened? virtually none, heck Chandler was going to Toronto and Dallas was going after Al Jefferson.

our biggest competition for CP3 on the financial end is Cleveland and Toronto with their Trade exceptions, I don't think CP3 has to approve any trades, so his desires to be traded to particular teams hold about much weight as Ajinca's high school muscle shirt.

I know, I've heard it since we did the trade, but like I said, unless we net a superstar in return (CP3 or Melo), it will be a waste b/c we let guys like Al Jefferson be taken off the market.

The more I think about it, I don't think Mark Cuban is an idiot. He turned that franchise around from a perennial laughing stock to a contender year after year. He didn't make them that way by making bad deals. His people know what they're doing. MJ is a great business man, but we have a longer track record with Cuban as far as basketball personnel moves go... I don't think they'd give up Dampier knowing they still had a chance at Paul, so his contract being this big thing that every team covets is getting harder to believe.

On top of that, I just read NYK are making every player except Amare available to get Chris Paul. So what do you think they'd rather have? Curry's contract expires after this year, they've got Felton, Douglas, Gallinari, A. Randolph, Turiaf, etc. Compared to Dampier and what? Hederson and Brown? Nazr?

I think we jumped the gun and just got embarrassed again.

[CatNation]

I've pretty much decided I wouldn't want to do it if we had to trade Crash. Not worth trading the Bobcat to only get marginally better, a guy that played 45 games last year with serious injuries, and will just make us all nervous wrecks over the next 2 years wondering if he's leaving (not to mention jokafors contract again). If we cant get him for damp/naz/propects then it wouldn't be worth it.

[GoBobs]

Even if the front office can't land Paul we should be able to get more value out of the Dampier Contract because of recent events.

Just a thought. Raymond Felton and Anthony Randolph for Damp.

[BETCATS]

Even if the front office can't land Paul we should be able to get more value out of the Dampier Contract because of recent events.

Just a thought. Raymond Felton and Anthony Randolph for Damp.
Idk if recently signed free agents can be traded so soon. Not sure but i think their is a rule against it.

If Paul does end up in New York before Erica's contract becomes guaranteed I hope we could bring Raymond back. He deserves to play.

[GoBobs]

They are allowed to re trade raymond right away because they are under the cap.

[spectre]

They are allowed to re trade raymond right away because they are under the cap.

I haven't researched it, but from what everyone is saying Felton can't be traded until December 15th. He (FA) is different than Randolph (trade).

Kind of on a roller coaster emotionally about this, but as Amp has said I don't think our not being mentioned really means anything. If we can beat the offers of NY, Portland, Orlando & Dallas I think we'll get him.

[Mustachio]

I've pretty much decided I wouldn't want to do it if we had to trade Crash. Not worth trading the Bobcat to only get marginally better, a guy that played 45 games last year with serious injuries, and will just make us all nervous wrecks over the next 2 years wondering if he's leaving (not to mention jokafors contract again). If we cant get him for damp/naz/propects then it wouldn't be worth it.


CP3 over DJ
and
Melo over Crash

is only "marginally better" ? GTFOH. you cannot be serious. Even if CP3 does leave after two years... like Amp said... it would free up money in two years to make more moves, its a whole lot better than going into the season with DJ starting and being Atl Division Bottom Bitches to Mia and Orl for the next 5 years. Screw that. Crash is not untradeable... there are better players in the league and Melo is one of them. We gotta make moves or else we are nobody for the next 5 years in our division period.

Crash wont ever have more trade value than right now and I think hes taken us as far as hes gonna. Hard to hear maybe, but its the truth.

And as for Jokafor?? call him jokafor all you want, but hes about 10x better than what we currently have at Center combined

It comes down to this.
Keep Crash and go nowhere in the playoffs. DJ / Jax / Crash / TT / Nazr
Make some moves and compete CP3 / Jax / Melo / TT / Okafor Hands down far and away miles better than the other lineup

PS. I know Ray wouldnt have a choice but to come back in a backup plan trade, but that would make for some serious serious awkward practices.

[Ampsportsduo]

I know, I've heard it since we did the trade, but like I said, unless we net a superstar in return (CP3 or Melo), it will be a waste b/c we let guys like Al Jefferson be taken off the market.

The more I think about it, I don't think Mark Cuban is an idiot. He turned that franchise around from a perennial laughing stock to a contender year after year. He didn't make them that way by making bad deals. His people know what they're doing. MJ is a great business man, but we have a longer track record with Cuban as far as basketball personnel moves go... I don't think they'd give up Dampier knowing they still had a chance at Paul, so his contract being this big thing that every team covets is getting harder to believe.

On top of that, I just read NYK are making every player except Amare available to get Chris Paul. So what do you think they'd rather have? Curry's contract expires after this year, they've got Felton, Douglas, Gallinari, A. Randolph, Turiaf, etc. Compared to Dampier and what? Hederson and Brown? Nazr?

I think we jumped the gun and just got embarrassed again.

Mark Cuban is not an idiot, but he's been far from flawless when it comes to roster moves. He overpaid Diop, he overpaid Haywood (a bit of a panic move in my opinion), he either overvalued Dampier's contract for far too long or he gave up a great trade piece too cheap. He let Nash walk. He's overpaying Dirk now. It's not impossible to imagine that he may have miscalculated.

As for the Knicks they can't trade everyone. The Hornets can't take on 5 additional roster spots. Based on the salaries they would need to trade everyone but Raymond, Mozgov and Amare to even make it work in the trade machine.

Whether or not Chris Paul comes to Charlotte, as I posted earlier, the team needed to make a play. If they didn't put themselves in position to acquire Paul and he went to Orlando it's good night Gracey for the next 5+ years.

[Scottley Crue]

Like others have said, just because the Bobcats' aren't mentioned in the media doesn't mean it's not a destination for Paul. He can certainly have some influence where he'll play but the ultimate decision lies with New Orleans. And to that end, it just depends what NO wants...talent for talent or salary relief. If it's talent for talent, it'll be tough for anyone to give up enough talent and still have enough to make it not be the same situation Paul's currently in. If it's salary relief, the 'Cats are in a very good position to not only make Dampier's contract go away, but would also have the ability to absorb Okafor's contract and still have nice talent for Paul to play with.

[CatNation]

CP3 over DJ
and
Melo over Crash

is only "marginally better" ? GTFOH. you cannot be serious. Even if CP3 does leave after two years... like Amp said... it would free up money in two years to make more moves, its a whole lot better than going into the season with DJ starting and being Atl Division Bottom Bitches to Mia and Orl for the next 5 years. Screw that. Crash is not untradeable... there are better players in the league and Melo is one of them. We gotta make moves or else we are nobody for the next 5 years in our division period.

Crash wont ever have more trade value than right now and I think hes taken us as far as hes gonna. Hard to hear maybe, but its the truth.

And as for Jokafor?? call him jokafor all you want, but hes about 10x better than what we currently have at Center combined

It comes down to this.
Keep Crash and go nowhere in the playoffs. DJ / Jax / Crash / TT / Nazr
Make some moves and compete CP3 / Jax / Melo / TT / Okafor Hands down far and away miles better than the other lineup

PS. I know Ray wouldnt have a choice but to come back in a backup plan trade, but that would make for some serious serious awkward practices.

you are some kind of blind fool lol. We can't get CP3 without giving up Wallace. You still actually believe those RoF rumors :facepalm: It's over, dude.

I think you don't even read my posts, you just see my name and spit blind stupidity.


If we cant get him for damp/naz/propects then it wouldn't be worth it. http://www.bobcatsplanet.com/vb/images/onex/misc/progress.gif

[BRNC]

I agree with Amp that Erica at least gives us a chance for an upgrade at the PG position...as to whom that might be I have no idea...but without it (Erica) I doubt we had any choice besides DJ...and IMO DJ is not an "upgrade" over Ray...

[Mustachio]

you are some kind of blind fool lol. We can't get CP3 without giving up Wallace. You still actually believe those RoF rumors :facepalm: It's over, dude.

I think you don't even read my posts, you just see my name and spit blind stupidity.




Its not about believing those rumors... even though nothing has been said to make those rumors impossible except for your own self loathing "we cant get trades cause were the Bobcats" attitude.

Its about WANTING those trades to happen. We have the tools and assets to get the deal done, and you guys wanna hang on to a player for nostalgic reasons. Fuck that. Basically if this team upgrades at only point guard as you suggest or some other minimal trade... we still have no chance at anything but a first round upset. We had a minimal chance in the playoffs as the team stood, and then Miami went and got about 150 x better.

but i guess if you're cool with being bottom bitch for the next 5 years, then carry on.

[CatNation]

Its not about believing those rumors... even though nothing has been said to make those rumors impossible except for your own self loathing "we cant get trades cause were the Bobcats" attitude.

Its about WANTING those trades to happen. We have the tools and assets to get the deal done, and you guys wanna hang on to a player for nostalgic reasons. Fuck that. Basically if this team upgrades at only point guard as you suggest or some other minimal trade... we still have no chance at anything but a first round upset. We had a minimal chance in the playoffs as the team stood, and then Miami went and got about 150 x better.

but i guess if you're cool with being bottom bitch for the next 5 years, then carry on.

lol I'm done talking about Chris Paul, we've still got some real delusional people here that think we have the assets to get Chris Paul and Carmelo Anthony. I'm out, you can live in your fantasy world LOL.

[bbh2020]

from espn inside:

Okafor part of any Paul deal?

11:12AM ET
Emeka Okafor | Hornets (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/clubhouse?team=nor)


Top (http://www.bobcatsplanet.com/vb/#TOP)
Email (http://www.bobcatsplanet.com/vb/#)



http://a.espncdn.com/i/headshots/nba/players/65/2399.jpg (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=2399) With word that Chris Paul (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=2779) is angling his way out of New Orleans, there's been talk that Emeka Okafor (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=2399) and the four years and $52 million he has left on his contract may be part of any such deal for Paul.
"Speculation is the Hornets would want teams to take on the lousy long-term pact of center Emaka Okafor, who has four years and $52M left," writes Marc Berman of the New York Post (http://www.nypost.com/p/sports/knicks/paul_out_effort_EcyvQVSiHUEs2x3BguzHoM#ixzz0uW9TBR Bo). "Okafor is a center the Knicks can use, but his addition negates their chances of offering Carmelo Anthony (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=1975) the maximum."
If the Knicks are able to trade Eddy Curry (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=990) and his $11.2 million expiring contract back in a deal for Paul and Okafor, that would leave them with Okafor, Ronny Turiaf (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=2789) and newcomer Russian Timofey Mozgov (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=4298) at center -- which would be an upgraded depth chart.
But it could come at the risk of not being able to roll out the full red carpet for Anthony, as Berman notes.
Yet, we've seen LeBron James (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=1966), Chris Bosh (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=1977) and Dwyane Wade (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=1987) take less money to team up, so there's a possibility Anthony would do the same to play with Paul and Amare Stoudemire (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=1727).
With Dwight Howard (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=2384), Brandon Bass (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=2745) and Marcin Gortat (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=2758) at center for the Magic, another rumored destination for Paul, there isn't much room for Okafor.
Same goes for the Blazers, who have Joel Przybilla (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=682), Marcus Camby (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=125) and Greg Oden (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=3225).
Of course, one member of each of these trios could be traded back to New Orleans to make room for Okafor.

[ohara831]

We all have differing opinions on what will or wont help the Cats and how to go about becoming a better team. But we are ALL Bobcat fans, and need to try and remain respectful of each other's opinions, even when we disagree. That is what sets BCP apart from other sites. There are other sites that a very good and fun to take part in, but there has always be a respectful atmosphere here which is occasionally missing from others. And I think we have the most intelligent posters here, so lets try to maintain that atmosphere.

[TheBeagle]

We all have differing opinions on what will or wont help the Cats and how to go about becoming a better team. But we are ALL Bobcat fans, and need to try and remain respectful of each other's opinions, even when we disagree. That is what sets BCP apart from other sites. There are other sites that a very good and fun to take part in, but there has always be a respectful atmosphere here which is occasionally missing from others. And I think we have the most intelligent posters here, so lets try to maintain that atmosphere. +1

Not sure why anyone would continue to post on a thread they have no interest in or are violently opposed to....I know I don't....but to each his own. Nevertheless, ohara's post is gospel.

[Proudiddy]

I just wish something would happen one way or another so I can walk away from my computer for about a week and we can all move on with other Bobcats news... It's eating us alive lol.

[EC123]

We all have differing opinions on what will or wont help the Cats and how to go about becoming a better team. But we are ALL Bobcat fans, and need to try and remain respectful of each other's opinions, even when we disagree. That is what sets BCP apart from other sites.

Some people don't know anything about basketball, therefore, their opinions are ridiculous, and yes, invalid.

Anyone who wants Boris Diaw on this team next season, or believes that DJ Augustin would be acceptable as a starting PG in the NBA, clearly does not have an eye for basketball.

[WarioVsMooChicken]

Some people don't know anything about basketball, therefore, their opinions are ridiculous, and yes, invalid.

Anyone who wants Boris Diaw on this team next season, or believes that DJ Augustin would be acceptable as a starting PG in the NBA, clearly does not have an eye for basketball.

aka

"Anyone who disagrees with my opinion is a moron and what they think doesn't matter *blows up* "

[ohara831]

No one's opinion on BCP is invalid. It may be different, and even off base to what the majority may think. But it makes one think, and provokes opinion, and therefore has value.

[ziggy]

We all have differing opinions on what will or wont help the Cats and how to go about becoming a better team. But we are ALL Bobcat fans, and need to try and remain respectful of each other's opinions, even when we disagree. That is what sets BCP apart from other sites. There are other sites that a very good and fun to take part in, but there has always be a respectful atmosphere here which is occasionally missing from others. And I think we have the most intelligent posters here, so lets try to maintain that atmosphere.


+1 for ohara,

All opinions are welcome here. Everyone is entitled to state and civilly debate their opinions... And would it really be any fun if everyone here thought the same things and agreed all of the time? :g:

[x2pacalypse]

honestly i think the way our current roster is set our glaring hole is at center, and while the PG spot is weak and unproven, we don't even have a player on our roster right now capable of substantial minutes at the 5

[ammofan]

I also read that the Hornets are insisting that teams would have to take Posey in addition to Mek and CP3. I think I would def take Posey and Mek!

We would be an instant contender.
Something along the lines of DJ, Hendo, Dampier, Nazr...etc for the Hornets 3 guys?

[kickazzz2000]

Does anyone in NOLA even care? Just looked at the NOLA.com sports page.

LSU Media Day
Les Miles Press Conference
Saints Camp
Tulane has national tv games
Roy freaking Oswalt to Cardinals

[ziggy]

Does anyone in NOLA even care? Just looked at the NOLA.com sports page.

LSU Media Day
Les Miles Press Conference
Saints Camp
Tulane has national tv games
Roy freaking Oswalt to Cardinals

You can take a look at this thread (http://hornetsreport.com/HRForums/showthread.php?t=61414) on Hornets Report to get a better feel about how their fanbase is feeling about the CP3 situation.

[Cats4lif3]

Chris broussard from espn said on sportscenter that the bobcats would love to have cp3 and out of the teams cp3 mentioned have the best chance to help relieve cap space for NOH.

[SWedd523]

I never knew CP3 "mentioned" us? Hmm, maybe things are starting to look bright for us?!

[Cats4lif3]

My bad poorly worded. Chris broussard mentioned us as a possible team

[Dlwhite83]

Are they a link on this ?

[Cats4lif3]

Are they a link on this ?

Sportcenter as the tv show... On tv.... Haha

[Dlwhite83]

thought it could have been online as well . my bad for asking

[Cats4lif3]

It's all good

[BETCATS]

No one's opinionon BCP beside ballwhore's is invalid. It may be different, and even off base to what the majority may think. But it makes one think, and provokes opinion, and therefore has value.
fixed for you:biggrin:

[BlockParty]

And would it really be any fun if everyone here thought the same things and agreed all of the time? :g:

Ignoring the "all the time" part...please tell me that Sam I am Vincent didn't have any supporters at the end of his reign of running our season into the gutter. BCP faithful were unanimous in that inevitable decision? wait...if they weren't I'm not sure I'm ready to handle the truth.

[TheBeagle]

Does anyone in NOLA even care? Just looked at the NOLA.com sports page.

LSU Media Day
Les Miles Press Conference
Saints Camp
Tulane has national tv games
Roy freaking Oswalt to Cardinals :paddle: Unless they give us Pujols or their entire farm system and/or Dave Duncan....NO. FUCKING. WAY.

[ziggy]

Ignoring the "all the time" part...please tell me that Sam I am Vincent didn't have any supporters at the end of his reign of running our season into the gutter. BCP faithful were unanimous in that inevitable decision? wait...if they weren't I'm not sure I'm ready to handle the truth.

Hey BlockParty,

I think that the "Sam Vincent must go" and the "Why is Jeff McInnis starting at PG" topics were about as unanimous as it has ever been. But believe it or not even Sam and Jeff had a few defenders. :facepalm:

[spectre]

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=5405528


New Jersey and Charlotte are known to be among the many teams that would make offers for Paul. Some league sources believe New Orleans would insist that Hornets center Emeka Okafor (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=2399), who has four years and $52 million left on his contract, be included in any deal for Paul.There's a vid there too with Broussard, but I'm not sure it's the one talked about above.

[BlockParty]

But believe it or not even Sam and Jeff had a few defenders. :facepalm:

Besides each other ????:facepalm::facepalm::facepalm:

Actually back when Jeff was a starter and got waived just before the deadline....the day it happened I mentioned that to one of the Bobcat employees that I had a pretty good friendship with and is sadly no longer with the Bobcats...I said "I bet Rod waived Jeff because Sam wouldn't sit his ass on the bench and give Ray more playing time" the guy replied...I heard that is exactly what happened, Sam wouldn't listen to Rod (to prove a point that he's the coach and smarter or something) and Rod said fine, if waiving him is the only way you get him off the court, so be it.

[Scottley Crue]

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=5405528

There's a vid there too with Broussard, but I'm not sure it's the one talked about above.
I think there's two things to take from that. This and other reports seem hitch Okafor to any deal inolving Paul. That makes me believe that NO is mainly concerned with shedding salary. Dampier's magically disappearing contract is a huge plus in that department, anlong with expiring/small short-term contracts that the Bobcats can offer. I would think that's appealing to NO.

Also hearing that NJ wants Paul, along with the fact that the last time Devin Harris and Avery Johnson tried to co-exist didn't end well make me believe that if someone else were to land Paul that Harris would look to be available as well. Certainly I prefer Paul, but if possible I'd take Harris if the Paul thing doesn't work out.

[Veteran_Picksetter]

Besides each other ????:facepalm::facepalm::facepalm:

Actually back when Jeff was a starter and got waived just before the deadline....the day it happened I mentioned that to one of the Bobcat employees that I had a pretty good friendship with and is sadly no longer with the Bobcats...I said "I bet Rod waived Jeff because Sam wouldn't sit his ass on the bench and give Ray more playing time" the guy replied...I heard that is exactly what happened, Sam wouldn't listen to Rod (to prove a point that he's the coach and smarter or something) and Rod said fine, if waiving him is the only way you get him off the court, so be it.


Jordan sort of confirmed it in the media. When Mcinnis was waived, Michael said something to the effect of "We have to find out what this kid (Felton) can do as a Point Guard."

Well, Felton went on to improve and have 2 fine years under Larry Brown--especially last year--but I guess it still wasn't enough.

This current roster is shaky. We better have at least one more big move in the works.

[Black]

Paul for Dampier

Okafor for Naz, Brown, and Henderson

They cut Dampier, 13 million dissapears. Naz, Brown, and Henderson come off the books after the season, another 10 million off the books. Over the next four years, Paul and Okafor are owed ~103 million. POOF gone.

After the season, Peja, Thornton, Songolia, and Wright come off the books. Combine that cap space, with the money you save from Paul and Okafor, and New Orleans would only be committed to Posey's 7 million, and if David West picks up his player option, which is the last year of a front loaded contract worth 7.5 million, then along with a couple of small, short term contracts, worth around 18 million dollars.

If this is really about money, we have to be the best fit for Shinn.

The youth movement begins, but let's face it, they aren't going to get a star in return.

[ziggy]

Paul for Dampier

Okafor for Naz, Brown, and Henderson

They cut Dampier, 13 million dissapears. Naz, Brown, and Henderson come off the books after the season, another 10 million off the books. Over the next four years, Paul and Okafor are owed ~103 million. POOF gone.
.

I'd be fine with that deal, but I'd prefer to replace DJ in the deal in the place of Henderson. I think he is going to surprise us this season.

[Black]

Fine with me.

CP3/Livingston/Collins
Jax/Henderson/Carrol
Gerald/Diaw/FA
Thomas/Diaw/Najera
Okafor/Diop/FA

That would put us easily in the top 4 in the east.

[x2pacalypse]

god diaw is such a waste of space on the bench for that much money

[Black]

True, and I think if we did make that trade, we should still be looking to trade him, but him being the primary backup at the 3 and the 4 would get him pretty solid minutes.

Edit: Also, Tyrus would be pretty expensive coming off the bench too.

[Ampsportsduo]

Just another interesting note for the LRMR won't allow someone to sign in a smaller market crowd:

However, Paul has not hired James’s marketing firm — at least, not yet. Multiple news outlets, including The New York Times, have reported that Paul is working with LRMR, the company founded by James and his friend Maverick Carter. (http://offthedribble.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/07/23/paul-hasnt-yet-done-the-full-lebron/?ref=basketball) Paul was taken aback by the reports, according to a league official who spoke with him on Friday. Although he is considering LRMR, Paul said he had not yet made a decision, according to the official, who asked to remain anonymous to protect their relationship. Paul cut ties with his longtime agency, Octagon, earlier this month. He has hired one significant member of James’s circle: Leon Rose, an agent with C.A.A. Rose is close to William Wesley, a confidant to several N.B.A. players, including James. That Paul would be sensitive to comparisons is understandable. James has been universally criticized for the way he handled his free agency and for choosing to announce his decision on a one-hour television special called “The Decision.”

[BRNC]

Also hearing that NJ wants Paul, along with the fact that the last time Devin Harris and Avery Johnson tried to co-exist didn't end well make me believe that if someone else were to land Paul that Harris would look to be available as well. Certainly I prefer Paul, but if possible I'd take Harris if the Paul thing doesn't work out.

Actually, Johnson was totally opposed to trading Harris for Kidd and that's one of the reasons Cuban let him go...

[DY_nasty]

Just another interesting note for the LRMR won't allow someone to sign in a smaller market crowd:

However, Paul has not hired James’s marketing firm — at least, not yet. Multiple news outlets, including The New York Times, have reported that Paul is working with LRMR, the company founded by James and his friend Maverick Carter. (http://offthedribble.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/07/23/paul-hasnt-yet-done-the-full-lebron/?ref=basketball) Paul was taken aback by the reports, according to a league official who spoke with him on Friday. Although he is considering LRMR, Paul said he had not yet made a decision, according to the official, who asked to remain anonymous to protect their relationship. Paul cut ties with his longtime agency, Octagon, earlier this month. He has hired one significant member of James’s circle: Leon Rose, an agent with C.A.A. Rose is close to William Wesley, a confidant to several N.B.A. players, including James. That Paul would be sensitive to comparisons is understandable. James has been universally criticized for the way he handled his free agency and for choosing to announce his decision on a one-hour television special called “The Decision.”
Are we still technically in the small market crowd? I know we're no LA or NY, but with all the growth in Charlotte you'd think we'd be in the mid-tier range by now. Its not the 90s anymore...

[Chef]

i think small market refers to viewing market. if i am right, we are terribly small. imagine the ratings for bobcats v jazz finals? we can't even get our entire state to be able to watch the games on tv!!

[teej]

i think small market refers to viewing market. if i am right, we are terribly small. imagine the ratings for bobcats v jazz finals? we can't even get our entire state to be able to watch the games on tv!!

This.

Charlotte area market (CSA) is 2.4 million, on a good day. That's the 20th ranked market in the country. Only the Pacers (2.1), Bucks (1.8 ), Jazz (1.7), Thunder (1.3) and Hornets (1.2) have smaller CSA's.

Just a bit of note, Pittsburgh, St. Louis and Seattle are the only markets in the top 20 without an NBA team.

[DY_nasty]

This.

Charlotte area market (CSA) is 2.4 million, on a good day. That's the 20th ranked market in the country. Only the Pacers (2.1), Bucks (1.8 ), Jazz (1.7), Thunder (1.3) and Hornets (1.2) have smaller CSA's.

Just a bit of note, Pittsburgh, St. Louis and Seattle are the only markets in the top 20 without an NBA team.
Ah, thanks for correcting me.

[EC123]

This.

Charlotte area market (CSA) is 2.4 million, on a good day. That's the 20th ranked market in the country. Only the Pacers (2.1), Bucks (1.8 ), Jazz (1.7), Thunder (1.3) and Hornets (1.2) have smaller CSA's.

Just a bit of note, Pittsburgh, St. Louis and Seattle are the only markets in the top 20 without an NBA team.

That would be a shortsighted approach, with an assumption that Charlotte is the only place people are thinking about the "BOBCATS". You should at least extend the "BOBCATS MARKET AREA" as far east as Raleigh, and add all of South Carolina to that.

The Bobcats also have to begin marketing themselves in Alabama, where Gerald Wallace is from.

You can't limit the ****BOBCATS'**** market to Charlotte.

[teej]

You can't limit the ****BOBCATS'**** market to Charlotte.

You also can't limit the Lakers market to Los Angeles, or say that the Knicks only draw from NYC, not the upstate.

I'm going by the defined market for a ticket base. Sure, Raliegh or the Boro has some impact, but so do many areas. The difference between the Bobcats and Panthers is all of SC, NC and lots of southern VA and eastern Tenn. can watch the games. For the 'Cats, if you're outside of the 75 mile radius, you're basically screwed unless you have TWC.

The CSA gives a pretty solid idea of how big you market is. It's not perfect, but it's not perfect in the 20-something other markets.

[BETCATS]

I just dont think Chris would be happy here. While im starting to believe a little more that we might have a shot at getting him, i think Lebron would not approve of Chris being in the same division as him/making it harder for him and the rest of the ultra team to win the conference. It really looks more and more like Chris is Lebron's Stan so im guessing unless the rumor that we would get Melo like 10 minutes after we get Chris is true we wont be getting Chris for the long term. I think that is the only way we could make him happy, even though we would be a better team if we didnt give up a bunch of pieces to get Melo. If we did get Melo it would be painful for me because it would mean the end of the Gerald Wallace era. I want Gerald to be here for the rest of his career. MJ would be willing to oblige because it is probably his dream to have Chris and Melo in Charlotte. They would most likely get better signature shoes if they ended up here.:D

^Summary of my wall of text: I dont really want Chris Paul because of potential baggage that he would bring. If we could get Chris with expectations we were building a winner and not a traveling circus i would be all for it.

[Demon DeaCat]

If they're defining our viewing area as a 75 mile radius then they're still excluding a lot of folks. I have DirecTV and I get every televised game here in Winston.

[teej]

If they're defining our viewing area as a 75 mile radius then they're still excluding a lot of folks. I have DirecTV and I get every televised game here in Winston.

If you have DirecTv, then you're within that 75 mile radius.

That's the NBA defined mark for normal prices, TWC is the only major carrier (outside maybe AT&T) to pay higher prices.

[EC123]

You also can't limit the Lakers market to Los Angeles, or say that the Knicks only draw from NYC, not the upstate.

Yes you can. I'll give you NYC.

I'm not talking about UNLIMITED FANDOM. I'm talking about where people are most likely to drive from for a game, or where people are likely to most strongly feel like a team is their "HOME" team, which also affects who would watch a game if it was on television.

By those definitions, yes, you can "LIMIT" the Lakers market to Los Angeles and the Knicks to NY. Based on historical success, of course more people in California and NY are going to claim the Lakers and Knicks than would reasonably be expected to be part of the teams' true "HOME" base.

For the Bobcats, it's PRIMARILY Charlotte to Raleigh, and parts of upstate South Carolina, which is a much larger area than the Charlotte CSA.

To just focus on the City name a team is located in is ridiculous. That's not a market.

[amour217]

You know what? I'm getting sick and tired of the diva behavior of some athletes. It's amazing how someone who is under contract to work for a team can throw a hissy-fit to be sent somewhere where THEY want to go. I used to think Chris Paul was one of the good guys and now I'm losing respect for him...who is he to evaluate the team that pays his bills? Who is he to demand where he does or doesn't go? Frankly, I'd love it if the Hornets said "We still got you for 2 more years...suck it up."

It's about time some players have some freaking honor and stick with their teams a little instead of playing the waaaah-I-wanna-play-for-a-contender-or-I'll-tank tantrum game.

[teej]

For the Bobcats, it's PRIMARILY Charlotte to Raleigh, and parts of upstate South Carolina, which is a much larger area than the Charlotte CSA.

I don't think there's too many people in Raliegh driving to the games. Greensboro sure, and upstate SC is calculated in the CSA.

Even if you add in the Greensboro and Greenville SC CSA's, it's still in the middle of the road with 5.1 mil. And that's more than gifting it.

The Pistons, Hawks, Rockets, 76ers, Mavs, Warriors, Celtics, Wizards, Bulls, Clippers, Lakers, Nets and Knicks are still ahead with only their own CSA's. If you add a few places an hour away from Denver and Minny, the Nuggets and Timberwolves move ahead.

The 'Cats aren't struggling like other teams as far as market, but it's far from a large market.

[Mustachio]

You know what? I'm getting sick and tired of the diva behavior of some athletes. It's amazing how someone who is under contract to work for a team can throw a hissy-fit to be sent somewhere where THEY want to go. I used to think Chris Paul was one of the good guys and now I'm losing respect for him...who is he to evaluate the team that pays his bills? Who is he to demand where he does or doesn't go? Frankly, I'd love it if the Hornets said "We still got you for 2 more years...suck it up."

It's about time some players have some freaking honor and stick with their teams a little instead of playing the waaaah-I-wanna-play-for-a-contender-or-I'll-tank tantrum game.


normally i would agree. Its a contract. honor it. Be the man and win with what you got.

But we're talking about George Shinn here. I mean the guy actually hates to win because it cost money. LOVES selling players, hates paying them. I mean I would be more upset if someone wanted to stay in that environment. You cant really fault a guy for wanting to win. Its not like he is doing it for the money, hes making bank in NO. Then again I do think I would be more upset about it, if i didnt think CLT would be a great fit for CP3

[BlockParty]

I'd love to land CP3...but I don't have any sympathy for him if he ends up being 'stuck' in New Orleans the next two years. Yes George Shinn is a horrible owner, yes he's cheap, yes he lies..>BUT> history shows he did all that in Charlotte too, so CP3 (and his agent) should not have signed a 4 year extenion 2 years ago if he didn't like playing in New Orleans.

[rsxnova]

I will be happy as long as we profit over his trade.

[DY_nasty]

I'd love to land CP3...but I don't have any sympathy for him if he ends up being 'stuck' in New Orleans the next two years. Yes George Shinn is a horrible owner, yes he's cheap, yes he lies..>BUT> history shows he did all that in Charlotte too, so CP3 (and his agent) should not have signed a 4 year extenion 2 years ago if he didn't like playing in New Orleans.
You can't really knock the guy for taking the money. In a league where you can get hurt any day doing something routine and have your value plummet literally overnight, you gotta take the money you can get while you can get it. You won't see too many guys coming off of their rookie contract refusing to sign that second deal.

Also, two years ago they looked like a pretty decent team. So much for that...

[TyHill]

They really could market to Southwest Virginia. I live in Blacksburg and drove 2 1/2 hours to watch a couple games. It's not that bad, I think they should also target that area as well in other sports . I'm getting DirectTV up here for the purpose of watching Bobcats, Panthers, and Hurricanes. 2 1/2 hours from 2 of those teams and 3 hours from the other as oppose to Washington sports (what they broadcast) which is 5 hours away. Granted, I am from NC and love my hometown state sports.

[CatNation]

yeah if we got CP3 there'd be a way better chance I'd actually get to watch the games on TV in the damn state of NC lol. Fuck Charter

[BlockParty]

You can't really knock the guy for taking the money. In a league where you can get hurt any day doing something routine and have your value plummet literally overnight, you gotta take the money you can get while you can get it. You won't see too many guys coming off of their rookie contract refusing to sign that second deal.

Also, two years ago they looked like a pretty decent team. So much for that...

True, I can't blame him for taking the money...but I don't have any sympathy for him complaining about having to live up to his end of the committment....again, barring a no-trade clause, Shinn could careless where CP3 wants to go. Whoever offers the most monetary relief coupled with draft picks or expiring contracts to NOH will most likely win out (Damp's contract could expire the same day).

[DY_nasty]

True, I can't blame him for taking the money...but I don't have any sympathy for him complaining about having to live up to his end of the committment....again, barring a no-trade clause, Shinn could careless where CP3 wants to go. Whoever offers the most monetary relief coupled with draft picks or expiring contracts to NOH will most likely win out (Damp's contract could expire the same day).
True.

The only leverage that Paul has (and its not a lot) is the fact that he can sign promise to sign an extension with whatever team he chose to go to, or choose not to.

[Ampsportsduo]

I'm sympathetic to Paul's demands because of George Shinn when you're an owner and it keeps happening on your watch, it says more about you than the players.

[BlockParty]

My point is...George Shinn has not changed at all during this process (he was a snake in the grass in the early years here in Charlotte and sold part of his business to Ray Woolridge so that he didn't look as bad) and it was only a matter of time in New Orleans (I still think the NBA paid him to return to NO instead of staying in OKC). So being surprised or miserable with the actions or inactions that George Shinn made is a position Paul put himself into.

...for Paul, yes times on the court were better 2 years ago when Paul signed the extension..but he was the same draft class as Felton, if he truly wanted out of New Orleans, he should have rejected the extension offers and he could've choosen where he wanted to go this summer as an unrestricted free agent, just like Felton did.

[BIGCatBobcat]

You know what? I'm getting sick and tired of the diva behavior of some athletes. It's amazing how someone who is under contract to work for a team can throw a hissy-fit to be sent somewhere where THEY want to go. I used to think Chris Paul was one of the good guys and now I'm losing respect for him...who is he to evaluate the team that pays his bills? Who is he to demand where he does or doesn't go? Frankly, I'd love it if the Hornets said "We still got you for 2 more years...suck it up."

It's about time some players have some freaking honor and stick with their teams a little instead of playing the waaaah-I-wanna-play-for-a-contender-or-I'll-tank tantrum game.

100% with you. You didn't see Jordan saying "I don't have the supporting cast I need to win" he made them into whatever, not saying they were no good and Jordan was the all being force but come on. The only other all-star from Jordan's Bulls was Scottie Pippen. I didnt look it up but if i don't remember, they don't count.

Suck it up, you have David West, you have Okafor, you have a great back up. But if not, if it's not workin out for you, come on to Charlotte.

[DY_nasty]

100% with you. You didn't see Jordan saying "I don't have the supporting cast I need to win" he made them into whatever, not saying they were no good and Jordan was the all being force but come on. The only other all-star from Jordan's Bulls was Scottie Pippen. I didnt look it up but if i don't remember, they don't count.

Suck it up, you have David West, you have Okafor, you have a great back up. But if not, if it's not workin out for you, come on to Charlotte.
lol what are you talking about? Jordan ripped everyone from his coaches, to his players, to the guys in his front office. Dude was a maniac.

[SWedd523]

lol what are you talking about? Jordan ripped everyone from his coaches, to his players, to the guys in his front office. Dude was a maniac.

Ripping them because he wants them to be better = one thing
Ripping them and demanding a trade = another

[DY_nasty]

Ripping them because he wants them to be better = one thing
Ripping them and demanding a trade = another
I don't want people to think that I'm white knighting for Chris Paul here. But he's never caused guys to get fired or black listed in the NBA.

Not only that, but there hasn't been one direct quote from Chris Paul this entire time. Its not like he was videotaped trashing teammates in a parking lot, ignoring phone calls from his FO, telling reporters how much he hates the place, or anything along those lines... jus sayin...

[SWedd523]

Never said you were, only that MJ and CP3 are two very different situations.

[CatNation]

Sources with knowledge of the situation are saying NOH will tell Paul tomorrow they will not trade him but instead show him some trade scenarios they have to improve the team

http://www.wdsu.com/offsidesblog/index.html

I really don't think Collison is worth going way over luxury tax, though I expect everyone will say do it anyone cause its not their money lol

[EC123]

Sources with knowledge of the situation are saying NOH will tell Paul tomorrow they will not trade him but instead show him some trade scenarios they have to improve the team

http://www.wdsu.com/offsidesblog/index.html

I really don't think Collison is worth going way over luxury tax, though I expect everyone will say do it anyone cause its not their money lol

How is that trade supposed to make Chris Paul happy?

If I'm Paul, that trade sucks compared to the greener pastures I envisioned when I first demanded to be traded. It wouldn't make me happy.

[x2pacalypse]

Hornets Get: Gilbert Arenas, JaVale McGee, DeMar DeRozan, Jose Calderon

LOL at the dumbass who actually thinks the hornets would ever do that

"Hey I'm George Shinn, a cheap piece of shit, I'm going to invest $40 mil a year in point guards"

[DY_nasty]

How is that trade supposed to make Chris Paul happy?

If I'm Paul, that trade sucks compared to the greener pastures I envisioned when I first demanded to be traded. It wouldn't make me happy.
lmao

Thats one of the worst trade proposals I've ever seen

[Scottley Crue]

Hornets Get: Gilbert Arenas, JaVale McGee, DeMar DeRozan, Jose Calderon

LOL at the dumbass who actually thinks the hornets would ever do that

"Hey I'm George Shinn, a cheap piece of shit, I'm going to invest $40 mil a year in point guards"
Clearly, this guy has no experience with George Shinn.

[stun704]

http://basketball.realgm.com/src_wiretap_archives/68350/20100725/paul_to_issue_formal_trade_request_monday/

He has not listed his favorite teams, so this could mean the bobcats are still in the running, despite the "leaks" that have been coming out from sources.:g:

[rsxnova]

http://basketball.realgm.com/src_wiretap_archives/68350/20100725/paul_to_issue_formal_trade_request_monday/

He has not listed his favorite teams, so this could mean the bobcats are still in the running, despite the "leaks" that have been coming out from sources.:g:

Yea it seems like that Magic is my choice was all hope.

[Chef]

That would be a shortsighted approach, with an assumption that Charlotte is the only place people are thinking about the "BOBCATS". You should at least extend the "BOBCATS MARKET AREA" as far east as Raleigh, and add all of South Carolina to that.

The Bobcats also have to begin marketing themselves in Alabama, where Gerald Wallace is from.

You can't limit the ****BOBCATS'**** market to Charlotte.

trust me when i say this. raleigh, durham or chapel hill do not give a crap about the bobcats. most people could care less about the nba. those that do are usually transplants who still root for their old team, lakers fans or cavs fans. if the bobcats made the finals no one would care, especially white folks. its all about college basketball. i wonder why the state didn't try to get all three pro teams + the eventual baseball team into the same city?

[Chef]

normally i would agree. Its a contract. honor it. Be the man and win with what you got.

But we're talking about George Shinn here. I mean the guy actually hates to win because it cost money. LOVES selling players, hates paying them. I mean I would be more upset if someone wanted to stay in that environment. You cant really fault a guy for wanting to win. Its not like he is doing it for the money, hes making bank in NO. Then again I do think I would be more upset about it, if i didnt think CLT would be a great fit for CP3

it's not the whole "i want out" thing that bothers me either. we all do it with our jobs too. it's the "i want traded and here's who i want traded to" crap. if you want traded fine but unless your contract has a no trade clause which gives you veto powers, you have no control. and most here know my thoughts about the wave of homosexuality that is taking over the nba with this "let's arrange all-star teams" instead of trying to beat the other guys. if a trade like gasol to lakers happens or draft results like okc happen that is one thing but to bitch and moan about playing with your buddies is another.

[unc12003]

trust me when i say this. raleigh, durham or chapel hill do not give a crap about the bobcats. most people could care less about the nba. those that do are usually transplants who still root for their old team, lakers fans or cavs fans. if the bobcats made the finals no one would care, especially white folks. its all about college basketball. i wonder why the state didn't try to get all three pro teams + the eventual baseball team into the same city?

yeah I've lived in Raleigh my whole life and its true that no one there really cares about the NBA. The Bobcats don't really even seem to be on the radar in Raleigh. I think part of the problem is that we can't get the games in Raleigh. It is really crazy that I can only watch a fraction of the games when I'm just 2.5-3 hours away from the team. How do the Bobcats expect to grow the fanbase when the only people who can see the team play are in Charlotte??

If they got a new TV deal which let them broadcast to the whole state it would help a lot.

[Chef]

Sources with knowledge of the situation are saying NOH will tell Paul tomorrow they will not trade him but instead show him some trade scenarios they have to improve the team

http://www.wdsu.com/offsidesblog/index.html

I really don't think Collison is worth going way over luxury tax, though I expect everyone will say do it anyone cause its not their money lol

i know most don't agree with me, but i would take collison via dampier's contract either directly or in a multi-team. our bargaining power would be huge if they basically announced "we are trying to make cp3 happy". granted shinn, is the major obstacle because he isn't going to want to pay any money. i imagine we could try to get melo involved where denver gets west and maybe marcus banks and loses some contracts. we could get collison, expirings like peja or even posey (who at this point i think isn't a horrible contract and could be a killer back up for jax and crash) and future #1's. collison gives us an opportunity for a potential top 7 or 8 point guard at a bargain basement price plus he is still getting paid peanuts compared with his production.

[CatNation]

i know most don't agree with me, but i would take collison via dampier's contract either directly or in a multi-team. our bargaining power would be huge if they basically announced "we are trying to make cp3 happy". granted shinn, is the major obstacle because he isn't going to want to pay any money. i imagine we could try to get melo involved where denver gets west and maybe marcus banks and loses some contracts. we could get collison, expirings like peja or even posey (who at this point i think isn't a horrible contract and could be a killer back up for jax and crash) and future #1's. collison gives us an opportunity for a potential top 7 or 8 point guard at a bargain basement price plus he is still getting paid peanuts compared with his production.

If NOH wants to keep Paul and try to bring in players to make him happy, Collison for Dampier+our scrubs isn't really a direction I see them going in lol.

[Chef]

If NOH wants to keep Paul and try to bring in players to make him happy, Collison for Dampier+our scrubs isn't really a direction I see them going in lol.

that's the best thing about damp. any multi-team trade has to at least include the bobcat's in the discussion because it is basically a 13 mil trade exception except he can play the first part of the season and he is a top 15 center. so we could conceivably convince shinn to give up collison for damp if we take posey. which still saves us 7 million or we could offer damp to make a deal possible for collison and picks and save 12 million dollars now plus get much much better as far as future outlook goes.

[Proudiddy]

http://espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=5410152

NOH says they aren't looking to trade him even if Paul requests trade today...

[spectre]

that's the best thing about damp. any multi-team trade has to at least include the bobcat's in the discussion because it is basically a 13 mil trade exception except he can play the first part of the season and he is a top 15 center. so we could conceivably convince shinn to give up collison for damp if we take posey. which still saves us 7 million or we could offer damp to make a deal possible for collison and picks and save 12 million dollars now plus get much much better as far as future outlook goes.

It'd also give NOLA a 6 million TPE to work with as well as losing Posey...but I'd have to think they could get better offers for Collison.

Think maybe throwing DJ in would balance it out? With Collison & Livingston his MPG would probably plummet.

Edit:

This won't work. NOLA is over the cap so trades have to be within 125% + 100k. It becomes even more problematic because Dampier has to be dealt by himself. NOLA could throw someone like Songalia in to get it there...but then we'd be over the LT.

[kickazzz2000]

Yea it seems like that Magic is my choice was all hope.

YES! Everybody needs to step back and think about this.

How does Chris Broussard go from The Knicks are the first choice to two days later saying "sources are now telling me that the Magic are the first choice for Chris Paul..Chris now feels that Dwight Howard is a better fit " :facepalm:

To quote two great wide recievers: "cmonnn mannnn" and "child please"

Either Chris Paul can't make up his mind

or 2.

Chris Broussard is being fed a bunch of bullshyte.


So lets stop ripping Chris Paul for what he may or may not have said..all we know is that he might want out...and who can blame him for that? Haven't heard ANYTHING from HIM about where he wants to go.

[murphman]

http://espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=5410152

NOH says they aren't looking to trade him even if Paul requests trade today...

Posturing. Cat and mouse. Etc, etc.

Let both sides play their games, the longer the wait the better for us since we cant move Damp with another player until mid Sept. The longer Paul wants out, the more time he (or his "camp") have time to gripe and complain. The longer they whine, the less leverage NO has (see the Stephen Jackson at GS situation for a recent example). NO can threaten to play hardball and keep him in town to start the season, but his new power brokers will keep screaming to anyone who will listen and eventually NO will want to move on from the headache. His value is the highest right now it will be to NO. If they hold tight for a few months, the offers from the other 29 teams will start to dimish as they realize they have more leverage (assuming Paul continues to want out).

[spectre]

Posturing. Cat and mouse. Etc, etc.

Let both sides play their games, the longer the wait the better for us since we cant move Damp with another player until mid Sept.

How is that better? He would then be guaranteed and he'd get paid for the '10-'11 season vs. being instant cap relief.

[Mustachio]

Posturing. Cat and mouse. Etc, etc.

Let both sides play their games, the longer the wait the better for us since we cant move Damp with another player until mid Sept. The longer Paul wants out, the more time he (or his "camp") have time to gripe and complain. The longer they whine, the less leverage NO has (see the Stephen Jackson at GS situation for a recent example). NO can threaten to play hardball and keep him in town to start the season, but his new power brokers will keep screaming to anyone who will listen and eventually NO will want to move on from the headache. His value is the highest right now it will be to NO. If they hold tight for a few months, the offers from the other 29 teams will start to dimish as they realize they have more leverage (assuming Paul continues to want out).


i dont think its necessarily like that. I dont think Chris Paul would be traded if NO wants to really keep him. I submit that they dont care. If they are truly trying to build around him, then no whining or compaining in the world could get him out of there. The only hope CP3 has of being traded is if, as the rumors suggest, NO is looking to save some cash short term. If they are looking to save cash, then a trade will get done. If they are serious about building a contender in New Orleans then all this is for nothing. Thats why I think this whole thing is interesting. New Orleans really doesnt have the assests to build a winner anytime soon. And we know for a fact that George Shinn doesnt care about anything but a dollar, and will sell players or freaking move the franchise if he can. No regard for fan interest or the city itself.

Normally I would be upset that CP3 isnt honoring his contract, and isnt staying loyal to the Hornets. But Lebron changed the game, and if you have any winning desire or competitive juice, you gotta do something drastic in order to compete. The way I see it, we can either sit by and let LA and Miami run the league for the next 5 years or we can step up make moves and compete. its an either or at this point.

I personally think this week is a great opportunity for something to happen. If you're into conspiracy theories, this week marks the beginning of training camp for most NFL teams. From here until the start of the NBA season, it will be all football talk all the time. What better way for the NBA to steal some headlines then with a major trade situation. Bud Selig style baby.

[ALuhrs704]

1 small problem: we aren't on the list or even mentioned

reading the article leaves me with the feeling that this "super team" bullshit is gay as hell. it is making me a kobe fan more and more. durant is now my favorite non-bobcat.

Im with you 100%, i think barkley said it best "i respect kobe so much more now". idc who the bobcats will have, i know were taking miami down atleast once. gw matches with lbj and i think tyrus can hang with bosh (defending him), and jax vs wade is the only matchup that worries me. not saying that our guys are better players but i still have hope.

[Mustachio]

Im with you 100%, i think barkley said it best "i respect kobe so much more now". idc who the bobcats will have, i know were taking miami down atleast once. gw matches with lbj and i think tyrus can hang with bosh (defending him), and jax vs wade is the only matchup that worries me. not saying that our guys are better players but i still have hope.

sure we will get a win or two against them, and if thats the goal then stick where we are.

but no way in hell we beat Mia, Orl, Bos, Chi or LA in a 7 game series without some serious moves.

If the goal is to play mid season spoiler and shock the world for about 11 minutes then I dont think im gonna bother driving an hour to the games every other day.

[murphman]

How is that better? He would then be guaranteed and he'd get paid for the '10-'11 season vs. being instant cap relief.

Damp's contract is not guaranteed until the last of Oct. as I understand

[spectre]

Damp's contract is not guaranteed until the last of Oct. as I understand

I was under the impression that there wouldn't be a window where he was still unguaranteed but we could combine him with other players.

Is that not true?

We traded for Damp on July 13th 2010 and we have to wait 2 months (Sept. 13th). If he's unguranteed until the start of the season (November 1st?) then that would indicate we do indeed have a "window".

Didn't realize that til now.

[murphman]

I was under the impression that there wouldn't be a window where he was still unguaranteed but we could combine him with other players.

Is that not true?

We traded for Damp on July 13th 2010 and we have to wait 2 months (Sept. 13th). If he's unguranteed until the start of the season (November 1st?) then that would indicate we do indeed have a "window".

Didn't realize that til now.

I think there is a safe window (post #thirty eight)

http://www.bobcatsplanet.com/vb/showthread.php?t=11201&page=4

[Black]

I was under the impression that there wouldn't be a window where he was still unguaranteed but we could combine him with other players.

Is that not true?

We traded for Damp on July 13th 2010 and we have to wait 2 months (Sept. 13th). If he's unguranteed until the start of the season (November 1st?) then that would indicate we do indeed have a "window".

Didn't realize that til now.

Dampier can be traded with other players on September 13th.

[spectre]

Well great!

I remember the date BlockParty gave me...but I failed to put the two together and realize there was a stretch where we could move him + players and he'd still be unguaranteed.

Thanks murph/black!

[SWedd523]

Why does Kobe deserve any extra respect? How long ago was he throwing his coach under the bus, being caught on camera killing on his teammates and proclaiming that he wouldn't be back in LA -- until he got that fat ass contract?

[BobCatsFanInTx]

Well now this is bad news...http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=5410152

Sources told ESPN.com that teams inquiring about Paul's availability in recent days -- and there have been several after persistent media reports suggesting that Paul will formally request to be traded at a meeting Monday -- were greeted with the same resistance to Paul offers that the Hornets have maintained for months.

Also..http://www.twitlonger.com/show/2ooelf

[x2pacalypse]

the show's over folks

[BobCatsFanInTx]

Would it be possible to make a play for Tony Parker? If not Parker is there any chance at a real improvement from last season at the 1?

[CatNation]

can't believe we aren't getting Chris Paul for Dampier+scrubs!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! oh wait

[murphman]

Just a little damage control in the Chris Paul camp after his reputation took a hit.

Things may simmer for a while but I think it is highly possible they will bubble up again over the next couple of months (especially when you look at their roster right now and consider that they have hardly any flexibility to make any kind of moves to improve it (and keep Paul)).

[kickazzz2000]

see, now when he gets traded anyway, its the hornets fault #graspingatstraws :biggrin:

[BobCatsFanInTx]

can't believe we aren't getting Chris Paul for Dampier+scrubs!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! oh waitI for one never thought we could get Paul in that way. I always felt we would have to at least include Jax in a deal and most likely include Crash. I never really thought getting Paul for nothing was realistic and therefore getting him was not worth it. I am just reporting the news and using the term "Well this is bad news" since "Well this is good news" was used to start this thread.

I doubt we can get Tony Parker or any top tier pg for that matter. I say we stick with what we have and see what happens.

There is a good chance our team does not make the playoffs this season but we will for sure be in a position to improve from last season in 2011. I truly believe that this season will be much like last season if we make few if any changes from what we have. Maybe if our team is lucky they at least win a few games in the first round of the playoffs.

I will hope for the best but I expect a season much like last season.

If we keep Dampier he may be a nice addition to have for a trade before the trade deadline depending on how our team is doing. I don't think Damps is a complete bust and really and truly he may be better than Theo Ratliff was late last season for us.

Truthfully as we are now I am more worried about pg. It is just too much of an unknown and I would rather we have a pg that we know what we have. At least there would be no doubts heading into next season. DJ may be awesome now that the starting job is his to lose but we really don't know. I would love to have a solid pg without a past mired by emotional issues or injury for team security.

[Mustachio]

can't believe we aren't getting Chris Paul for Dampier+scrubs!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! oh wait


what part of George Shinn dont you understand? Dampier and Scrubs equals money savings.

What benefit do the Hornets get out of keeping and paying Chris Paul/Okafor for 2 years of winless seasons only to lose him for nothing?

This aint over cause some press release comes out with nicities. Woj at Yahoo says ignore the damage control comments... Chris Paul still wants out.

@WojYahooNBA Ignore spin out of this Hornets-Chris Paul meeting. He wants out. They don't want to trade him. Nothing's changed, except there's a new GM. about 2 hours ago (http://twitter.com/WojYahooNBA/status/19591449455) via web

WojYahooNBA All semantics, but Chris Paul will never directly demand a trade. There's no need; no use. With two years left on deal, he has no leverage. about 1 hour ago (http://twitter.com/WojYahooNBA/status/19591831512) via web

I've never seen someone so resistant to his team becoming a contender. If theres one single shred of hope of this team becoming a contender... im gonna hold onto it. Apparently some people love seeing this team mired in mediocrity. Until Chris Paul and Melo start the season out in their current uniforms, Im gonna beat the drum for them coming here.

http://blog.stixblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/evrv2a-00083unite-or-die-c-1750-posters.jpg

[Chef]

Would it be possible to make a play for Tony Parker? If not Parker is there any chance at a real improvement from last season at the 1?

see i was thinking maybe the spurs could be the third team. we get collison and posey they send tony parker and something else and end up with marcus thorton and david west. of course we could swap out diaw in the deal so the hornets end up with a pf too.

cp3
parker
peja
diaw
oak

that is a pretty athletic starting five. of course we would have to convince them that diaw is worth more than west in this style of offense. someone make a youtube mix and send it to the hornets.