Sources: Robinson close to signing with Warriors
Two people with knowledge of the negotiations told The Associated Press that the Golden State Warriors are close to signing guard Nate Robinson, who was released by the Thunder last month.
The people spoke on condition of anonymity Tuesday because the deal was yet to be finalized or formally announced by Golden State. The Bay Area News Group first reported the pending signing of Robinson, who would join a small backcourt also featuring Monta Ellis and Stephen Curry.
Robinson, the three-time NBA Slam Dunk champion, will provide depth at the guard spot as Curry has already sprained his troublesome, surgically repaired right ankle twice this season after going through the same thing several times last year. At 5-foot-9, Robinson makes Curry and Ellis — each 6-foot-3 — look big. the Thunder for a secondround draft pick.
Mullens, a 7-foot center, played one year at Ohio State before entering the 2009 draft. He already has played more for the Bobcats than he did in two seasons with the Thunder, who acquired him in a draftday trade. Heading into Tuesday night’s game against the Cavaliers, Mullens was coming off a career-best 12-point performance, his second consecutive game scoring in double figures. He is averaging a career-best 8.5 points per game.
The reason for his lack of success with the Thunder is clear. The Thunder wanted someone who could post up and score, and that didn’t fit Mullens’ game, even when he played for the Buckeyes.
He’s a perimeter shooter, and that isn’t where centers traditionally operate. Bobcats coach Paul Silas is allowing Mullens to be Mullens.
“That’s a perfect description,” said Mullens, a thirdyear player, before Tuesday’s game against the