Heat trade up for Shabazz Napier
The Miami Heat scored an experienced young guard and satisfied free agent-to-be LeBron James in one move by moving up to draft Connecticut's Shabazz Napier in Thursday's NBA draft.
The Heat traded their first-round pick, No. 26 overall, and two second-round picks to the Charlotte Hornets to move up two spots to grab Napier with the 24th pick, sources told ESPN.com.
James praised Napier after he led Connecticut to a second NCAA title in the past four years but he did not consult with the Heat on the selection, sources said. However, James' thoughts on Napier were known in the organization and the Heat spent several days investigating options to trade up to acquire him.
After the season, James called for the Heat to upgrade 'at every position' before next season.
Napier, who can play both guard spots and is an effective shooter, fills the mold of players Heat president Pat Riley prefers because he played four years in college. He averaged 18 points and shot 41 percent from 3-point range during his senior season.
The move could affect the future of Heat starting point guard Mario Chalmers, who will become an unrestricted free agent next week.
The Heat drafted guard P.J. Hairston from North Carolina for Charlotte to complete the swap. Miami also sent the No. 55 overall pick in the second round Thursday and a future second rounder.
ESPN.com
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