Nash predicts big things for Cavaliers with Shaq
ASSOCIATED PRESS
NEW YORK — One NBA star who has played with Shaquille O’Neal thinks the 37-year-old center will fit in just fine with LeBron James.
Two-time MVP Steve Nash told The Associated Press on Tuesday that he thinks O’Neal understands he is isn’t in the prime of his career and will have to share the spotlight.
Nash’s Phoenix Suns traded O’Neal to the Cleveland Cavaliers last month, where he’ll looks to bring James his first championship.
Nash says O’Neal is still a great player but James is going to be the focal point.
Bobcats-Hornets trade
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The New Orleans Hornets have officially found a taker for Tyson Chandler in the Charlotte Bobcats.
Emeka Okafor was dealt to the Hornets on Tuesday for Chandler in a deal involving 26-year-old centers.
The deal will save New Orleans money in 2009-2010, but also commits the Hornets to the final five years of a six-year $72 million contract. Chandler has two years remaining on his contract, including a player’s option for 2010-2011 worth $12.7 million.
Moves
The Mavericks signed free agent forward Tim Thomas. The 6-foot-10 Thomas, a 12-year veteran, played for the Clippers, Knicks and Bulls last season. He averaged 8.5 points and 3.1 rebounds in his 64 games, 36 with the Knicks, 18 with the Bulls and 10 with the Clippers. He played 191‚Ñ2 minutes a game.
The Pacers signed free agent guard Earl Watson to a multiyear contract. The 6-foot-1 veteran was waived earlier this month by Oklahoma City. He also has played with Seattle, Memphis and Denver in eight NBA seasons.
The Bucks signed first-round pick Brandon Jennings to a multiyear contract. Jennings was picked 10th overall in June’s draft.