Tyson Chandler sent to Oklahoma City
February 17, 2009
The New Orleans Hornets announced today that they have acquired forward Joe Smith, center Chris Wilcox and the draft rights to center Devon Hardin from the Oklahoma City Thunder in exchange for center Tyson Chandler.
“We were able to get great depth, leadership and experience by making this trade,” said Hornets General Manager Jeff Bower. “We felt we needed to increase our overall play of the frontline and Chris Wilcox is a young, athletic player that can score and fit well in our system. We will be able to take advantage of his athleticism and style of play. Joe provides us with much needed depth and someone who can be an integral part of our rotation.”
Smith, a 13-year veteran, has averaged 6.6 points, 4.5 rebounds and 0.7 blocks in 19.2 minutes of play in 36 games (three starts) with the Thunder. The former 1st overall pick from Maryland, has career averages of 11.7 points, 6.8 rebounds and 0.8 blocks over 929 games (615 career starts).
Wilcox, a six-year veteran, has averaged 8.4 points and 5.3 rebounds in 19.4 minutes over 37 games (six starts). During his three-year stint in Seattle (2005-2008), Wilcox averaged over 13 points and grabbed at least seven rebounds in each of the three seasons, including career-high’s of 14.1 points and 8.2 rebounds during the 2005-06 season.
“First off, I want to wish Tyson the best of luck in OKC, he is an outstanding person and we thank him for his service as a Hornet.” said Hornets Head Coach Byron Scott. “I am excited to be able to get more frontcourt depth in bringing Chris and Joe in, they are experienced NBA players who will be able to step right in and help us. In addition, we get a promising young post player in Hardin.”
Hardin, the 50th overall pick out of the University of California in the 2008 draft by the Thunder, averaged 9.3 points, 7.4 rebounds and 1.2 blocks last year as a senior for Cal. He finished as the school’s second all-time leading shot blocker (132).
