Image via WikipediaCharlotte Bobcats owner Michael Jordan was busy on Saturday defending his decision to trade Gerald Wallace(notes) and playing a major role in getting a reluctant Joel Przybilla(notes) comfortable with his new boss.
In a brief interview with The Associated Press, Jordan said “I love the trade” that sent the former All-Star Wallace to Portland. While the backup center Przybilla was the only likely rotation player Charlotte got in return, Jordan says it gives his club “flexibility” to make future moves because they acquired two first-round picks and cleared salary-cap space.
“I think it’s one of the best trades,” Jordan said.
Jordan said he’s not content with jockeying for the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. He believes the deal puts the franchise in better shape ahead of perhaps a lower payroll ceiling in the next labor deal as he tries to build a contender.
“We’re all right,” Jordan said as he left the practice floor. “I like where we are.”
In the short term, the Bobcats must replace Wallace, who was their second leading scorer, and backup center Nazr Mohammed(notes), who was traded to Oklahoma City in a separate deal Thursday.
