The New Jersey Nets are trying to make a big splash on the trade market, reportedly aiming to pry Chris Paul away from the New Orleans Hornets.
It won't be easy.
The Nets are one of several teams that have called the New Orleans Hornets about trading for Chris Paul, but the Hornets are not looking to move their franchise superstar, according to team and league sources.
Nets team president Rod Thorn, who pulled off the blockbuster deal for Jason Kidd in 2001, has expressed interest in Paul in recent weeks. Reportedly, the Nets have offered Devin Harris and the No. 3 overall pick in Thursday's NBA draft, but the Hornets, starting a new era under first-time coach Monty Williams, are not ready to part with the face of the franchise and their only box-office draw.
"We are not going to move him," said one team official Monday. "He's our foundation and is not exactly "touchable."