After much speculation, a three-team deal that sends former Phoenix Suns center Robin Lopez to the New Orleans Hornets is nearing finalization, according to a report.
Robin Lopez Traded To Hornets In 3-Team Deal, According To Report
Speaking on anonymity because the move has not formally been announced and completed, a source tells the Associated Press that the deal will also include former Minnesota Timberwolves fourth overall pick Wesley Johnson to the Phoenix Suns, while the Hornets would send guard Jerome Dyson and the retiring Brad Miller's $5.1 million contract to the Wolves in an attempt to clear salary cap space.
The Suns are expected to also receive a lottery-protected first-round pick from the Timeberwolves and ship Hakim Warrick down to New Orleans.
For the Hornets, their efforts to get younger and more athletic are evident. Gone are Emeka Okafor and Chris Kaman, and in is an agile seven-footer in Lopez. Lopez should compliment the team's first overall pick, Anthony Davis, who is expected to be slotted into the power forward role due to his range on offense.
For the Timberwolves, they may finally have turned the corner as a team with a young nucleus and money to spend, as this move will give them space to perhaps bring in Andrei Kirelenko or have the luxury of pursuing a higher-priced player during next season’s trade deadline or free agency period.
For more on the Timberwolves, be sure to visit Canis Hoopus and SB Nation Minnesota. For more on the Suns, check out Bright Side of the Sun and SB Nation Arizona. SB Nation’s Hornets blog is housed over at At The Hive.
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