The HRR NBA Trade Analyses Archive

July 19, 2001

The Chicago Bulls acquired F Charles Oakley from the Toronto Raptors in exchange for F Brian Skinner and a 2002 second round draft pick.

Notes:

• Skinner and Oakley can become free agents after the 2001 - 2002 season.
• Oakley’s salary increases to $7.2 M (from $6.5 M) because of a “trade kicker” in his contract.

2001 - 2002 player salaries:

Charles Oakley, Chi.: $7.2 M.

Brian Skinner, Tor.: $1.5 M.

Who got the better of the deal?

Toronto.

Why?

The Raptors were able to trade a player who had asked to be traded on many occasions; acquire a younger (and similar) type banger; and, more importantly, use the money freed up from the trade to re-sign their own free agents.

“I sat with Oak for a little bit and talked to him about it, and he was adamant. I just thought it was best we move on,” Raptors general manager Glen Grunwald said.

"He's happy with the situation in Chicago there, and we're happy to accommodate his trade request while at the same time acquire a good young player with a lot of potential.”

The Bulls want Oakley to be himself: a physical, hard working player who plays solid defense and knocks down the open shot. Charles can teach rookies Tyson Chandler and Eddy Curry how to act professional on and off the court as well as how to play the game the right way.

Jerry Krause, Bulls’ GM said, “Oak's always been a joy to me because of the kind of person he is. Charles is a natural born leader. He'll be great with our younger players. They're going to have to follow him because he will demand it and he'll get it done.

“He wants his teammates to play as hard as he does, and he's disappointed when they don't.”