I don't think it changes things that much. og15, hagrid, and I saw this thing coming. At least we saw that LA wasn't going to keep the #2 pick. After that the only real choice was whether the deal would be with Charlotte, Atlanta, or Orlando (which was the longest shot). Now the only question is whether LA goes for Livingston or Gordon at #4. Right now my money is on Livingston as he's the more unique talent. Players with Gordon's skill set, while generaly doing well in the NBA, have come along every year since at least the '95 draft. A guy like Gordon will be available next year (ahem...Chris Paul...) and the chances are that the Clippers will be in a position to draft him.
The reason they did it is because I think That the bobcats would like to start a francise with 1 of the 2 big name players in the draft meaning Okafor or Howard. They probably want a solid player to build a team around.
Don't rule out the Bobcats still drafting Livingston. His stock continues to rise and several scouts have gone to say, before this trade went down, that his stock has gone up so much that there is a really good chance that he goes in the top three, just out of the Bobcats' hands. This can be a way for the Bobcats to make sure that they are getting Livingstong...or they can go with the most likely situation and get Howard/Okafor. Just presenting all potential views here.
The Clippers benefit from this. They get to unload a big contract and gain a second rounder, while still getting the player they want. I'm betting that it would be Livingston they take. As wtwalker stated, Livingston is a rare talent and Ben Gordon leaves a taste of Keyon Dooling.
This deal is great for the Charlotte Bobcats because like someone mentioned they still get the player they want and another player that is a potential star or a bust. 50/50 with Drobnjak, he could be either depends on what happens. I dont like the 'Cats taking Drobnjak but i guess it will do.
Good move by Charlotte. They now will likely get Howard. And, in the East, whenever you have the opportunity to get a big man with a ton of potential and talent, you go for it. It could be the difference eventually for you team being successful. Especially in the East where it's rare to see a dominant big man whos name is not Jermaine O' Neal.
Good move. They can get one of the two best players in the draft and, being an expansion team, they need a big player to build a franchise around as well as draw some fans.
