Reports are out there that the Charlotte Hornets have made Kemba Walker available to be traded. From the team's perspective, it has to move money because its payroll is incredibly high and the team is unlikely to make the playoffs.
But in a column by Rick Bonnell of the Charlotte Observer, he said he received a call from a high-ranking executive in the organization and cleared up the report, which first appeared in ESPN.
Walker was devastated – his word – when he learned of ESPN’s initial report that the Hornets were canvassing the league for his trade value. Jordan looked to mitigate the damage when he called me a few days later to say the Hornets weren’t “shopping” Walker, and it would take an irresistible offer to justify moving him.
Just so readers are aware, the Jordan that Bonnell is referring to is Michael Jordan, NBA legend turned owner of the Hornets.
But even if Jordan and the rest of the organization isn't truly shopping Walker, the timing of that admission leads one to believe that it's not true. The team is not currently going anywhere, and it is hamstrung in future years with too many expensive contracts.
When that happens, usually at least one pricey player has to go. With how many minutes Walker has played lately and with how well he's been playing in those minutes, it's reasonable to conclude that Walker is showcasing his talents to the rest of the NBA with the knowledge that one of them might pick him up.
That “irresistible” deal may happen, as the league all saw the Blake Griffin trade happen. Nothing is for sure in the NBA, and everything is possible.
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