Cuttino Mobley and Michael Bradley have been traded to the Sacramento Kings for guard Doug Christie. Christie is a popular player in Sacramento, known for his defense and ability to lock down perimeter players. Current and former teammates describe Christie as an unselfish player who plays at 110% every night. While no one really wanted Mobley off the team, Christie's defense will be a welcomed change.
Initially, I was a bit suprised and somewhat upset with this trade. I did not want to see Mobley go and certainly not for an older player in Christie. After spending a little time thinking this over - Christie is a good choice for the Magic. Everyone talks about the salaries and breaking up the Franchise/Mobley relationship - but it comes down to defense. The Magic's defense has been decent at times, but for the most part, has been non-existent. This team has simply been able to outscore the opposition or outlast other teams with our deep bench (note: when they show up). Christie will provide instant defense at the shooting guard position, which is where we have been getting lit up at lately. Over time, I think the defensive mindset that Christie brings to the team will become contageous. We will see a different level of effort at the end of games.
