The Trade Winds Are A-Blowin'

Jermaine O'neal to Toronto for TJ Ford, Rasho Nesterovich the 17th pick in the draft and a player to be named. Here's the story on ESPN

I like this trade from Toronto's point of view. A lot. I was kind of (read; VERY!!!) annoyed that the Suns traded Marion for the Big Defensive Liability instead of the other O'neal last season. But bygones are bygones and JO has finally found a new home. This works out great for the Raptors, because now they can stop platooning the point. By most accounts Jose Calderon was their better PG last season and so they might actually be getting better by allowing him to start and play significant minutes. The guy averaged 7 asts in about 25 mins/gm last season so it will be interesting to see what he does in extended minutes this season. However, the Raptors will need a viable back-up.

Also with O'neal's ability to play the Center at both ends of the floor, the Raptors become a legitimate contendor in the East. They have someone who is or should be capable of boxing out Dwight Howard, which will come in handy no doubt. Plus O'neal's ability to play with his back to the basket should allow Chris Bosh to go back to doing what he does best. Playing from the high post and beating other PFs with his quickness.

The Pacers go into full-on rebuilding mode. Looks like Jamaal Tinsley is now expendable with the addition of Ford and the Pacers can still find a decent big man with their two first round picks (11th and 17th) in the draft.