New Orleans Hornets obtain: Jameer Nelson, Vince Carter, Marcin Gortat

Cap Total: $30, 344,542

Orlando Magic obtain: Chris Paul, Peja Stojakavic

Cap Total: $30,275,000

Why New Orleans does this?

Vince Carter 17m comes off the books after next year since he has a team option for 18m which NO would be sure to waive. They also obtain a relatively young All-Star PG in Jameer Nelson for roughly half the cost of Chris Paul. In obtaining Marcin Gortat they will give themselves some flexibility in the trade market since Gortat has significant trade value. Whether they wish to keep Gortat or Okafor they would still have a viable option at center.

Why Orlando does this?

Chris Paul is arguably the best PG in the NBA. He has the range, passing, leadership and drive that puts him among the upper echelon of NBA players. The Magic are in desperate need of leadership and playmaking on the wing. Chris Paul provides the knock down shooting required for our system but brings his 10 assists a night as well. Peja Stojakavic is the bad contract/filler in this trade. He may still be able to contribute as a situational role type player since we have a system best suited for his game. The biggest positive however concerning Peja is his 15m expires after next year.

Alternatives:

Okafor 11m and Songaila 4m replaces Peja in the trade

Mickael Pietrus 5.3m and Ryan Anderson 1.4 replace Marcin Gortat

Well there it is. What do you all think? Chris Paul approves...