Why CP3 and Howard need to be traded

Over the last several years, both the New Orleans Hornets and Orlando Magic have had varying degrees of success. Chris Paul has led the Hornets to the playoffs three times in his career, once reaching the Western Conference semifinals. With Dwight Howard, the Magic have had an even better track record, reaching the postseason each of the last five years, including reaching the NBA Finals in 2009. Combined, Paul and Howard have combined for nine All-Star games, eight selections to an All-NBA team, seven selections to an All-Defense team, and Howard has won three straight Defensive Player of the Year awards.
Despite all the accolades and accomplishments these two players have in their careers, there are two things that neither of them fell they will be able to get on their current teams: an NBA championship and playing under the bright lights of a large market NBA franchise. In the last few weeks, both have made it clear that they would like to be traded to a contending team in a large market, which is no surprise, because any NBA player that has a shred of competitive desire wants to hold a Larry O'Brien Trophy, as well as receive the increased endorsement deals that result from being in larger media markets.

Western Conference Preview: Pacific Division

This is the second installment of my six part NBA season preview. For the Southwest Division preview, click here.

Los Angeles Clippers
What's New: The Clippers acquired two former Georgia Bulldogs in this past June's draft. PF Trey Tompkins isn't overly athletic like teammates Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan, but possesses a solid jump shot, and is physical in the post on both sides of the ball. G Travis Leslie is an explosive shooting guard, and has a ridiculous 6'11" wingspan despite standing 6'4". His jumpshot is inconsistent, but should be able to attack the basket and be lethal on the fast break. He reminds me some of Russell Westbrook, in that he's also a very good rebounder for a guard (7.2 per game last season).
Biggest Concern: C DeAndre Jordan is a restricted free agent, and while the Clippers have indicated that they'll match any offer he might get, never underestimate the tight wallet of owner Donald Sterling.
Outlook: I do expect the Clippers to match an offer for DeAndre Jordan, but if the offer is deemed "too big", don't be surprised to hear about Donald Sterling contemplating using the amnesty clause. The most likely casualty of that may be Mo Williams, who will make $8.5 million this year, and has an $8.5 million player option for 2012. With Jordan there to play alongside fellow dynamic youngsters SG Eric Gordon and PF Blake Griffin (and don't forget about Chris Kaman), this team should be contending for a playoff spot.