The Charlotte Hornets are at the center of the National Basketball Association's (NBA) trade rumor mill, all because Hornets point guard Kemba Walker could be in a different uniform before the trade deadline. Hornets owner Michael Jordan recently opened up about trading Walker.
In an interview with local news publisher Charlotte Observer, the six-time Chicago Bulls champion said the Hornets will not settle for anything but an "All-Star player" for Walker, who is a one-time All-Star in his own right.
"It's not like we are shopping him. We would not just give him up. I love Kemba Walker. I would not trade him for anything but an All-Star player," Jordan said.
While the Hornets owner made it clear that they are not shopping Walker, this was contrary to other reports from ESPN's inside sources that Walker was available. There were even news of the Hornets seeking a young player, a draft pick, and salary shed.
Since buying majority of the Charlotte Hornets organization, Michael Jordan has actively engaged in most of the team's front office choices. From selecting third year big man Frank Kaminsky, to trading for the likes of veteran center Dwight Howard, Jordan continues to be an integral part of the decision-making process.
The fate of Walker, who is arguably the best Hornets player during Jordan's tenure as owner, will definitely go through Jordan's hands first.
While adamant about getting a high return for the All-Star guard, Jordan admits that it has been a disappointing season, and that changes have to be made.
"Obviously, the season has been a disappointment so far, and there have been teams asking about players. Also, we've been asking about players," Jordan said in the interview.
The Hornets have a lot of intriguing players outside of Walker. Jeremy Lamb, Malik Monk, and Dwayne Bacon are among the few. Meanwhile, starters such as Howard, Nicolas Batum, and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist are believed to be unwanted due to their massive payroll that is fully guaranteed until next season.
The trade deadline is Feb. 8. With the Hornets behind the playoff race, Jordan and his crew are running out of time to save the season. Still, the retired superstar has not given up on the season just yet.
