Bobcats trade up for second pick overall

Charlotte, originally slated to pick fourth in its first-ever draft, dealt that selection in addition to its second-round selection, 33rd overall, to obtain the No. 2 pick from the Clippers.

"We are extremely pleased to be able to move up into the number two spot in the draft," said Bobcats coach and GM Bernie Bickerstaff. "We are trying to build our team with the best possible players and being able to pick second in the draft exemplifies our commitment to accomplishing that goal."

The number one pick belongs to the Orlando Magic, who are rumored to be looking at Connecticut’s Emeka Okafor or high school player Dwight Howard.

The Bobcats also agreed to select Predrag Drobnjak in Tuesday’s expansion draft from the Clippers, who were looking to unload the 6-11 center’s contract.

"This trade achieves a two-fold objective," said Elgin Baylor, Clippers’ VP of basketball operations. "First, we know we will get the player we want with the fourth pick, and second, it improves our salary cap flexibility with regard to potential free agent developments."

Drobnjak averaged 6.3 points and 3.2 rebounds in 61 games last season.