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N.O. to focus on frontcourt, give flexibility to salary cap
With the addition of veteran Melvin Ely, it appeared forward Cedric Simmons was probably going to have a difficult time earning minutes as a Hornets backup this season.
So Hornets General Manager Jeff Bower decided on Saturday to part ways with Simmons, trading him to the Cleveland Cavaliers in exchange for the contract of former Hornets guard David Wesley and cash considerations.
Under the terms of the trade, Wesley will be waived by the Hornets if Simmons passes his physical to finalize the deal. Wesley, whose contract is not fully guaranteed, was not expected to play for the Cavaliers this season. He played for the Hornets from 1997-2005.
"This trade will help us in a number of areas heading into training camp," Bower said. "We will be able to focus on developing the additions we've made to our frontcourt, and it gives us increased flexibility in regards to salary cap management and room to add to our roster if we see fit."
Simmons was set to make $1.6 million this season and the Hornets had the option to extend his contract after the season.
From the trade, the Hornets slightly lowered their payroll as they are only responsible for a portion of Wesley's $1.8 million partially guaranteed contract. The Hornets have 13 players under contract and can sign up to 15.
The Hornets also could be looking to extend a contract to one of the free agents they plan to invite to training camp or they might pursue bringing back P.J. Brown, who has not finalized his decision to retire yet. Bower declined comment about any potential roster moves.
Earlier this month, the Hornets signed Ely to strengthen their frontcourt that already includes starting power forward David West, starting center Tyson Chandler and second-year backup center Hilton Armstrong.
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