Worst thing about the Chandler mess

My heart goes out to Tyson Chandler.

Not because he’s not coming back to Oklahoma City. Sure, that came as bad news late Wednesday night when the Thunder announced it was rescinding its trade with the Hornets, a trade that would’ve brought the talented big man back to town. Chandler spent time here before, embracing the city and becoming a fan favorite. Truth be told, he seems like one of the good guys in sports.

But Chandler not returning to OKC is not why I feel bad for the big guy. I feel bad because something must really be wrong with him.

Trades aren’t often rescinded in the NBA, especially not ones that are celebrated like Chandler’s was. Everyone with the Thunder seemed to be glowing about the news Wednesday. Sam Presti. Scott Brooks. Players. Fans.

The thing is, this was a trade for the future. Of course Chandler was going to play this year, but he was really going to be important next season and seasons to come when this young franchise really looked like it was going to start coming into its own. Chandler has had nagging injuries, but the Thunder could give him time to heal. Really heal. There was no need to rush him into action.

I even asked Brooks about that Wednesday a few hours after the trade, and he agreed that there was no rush to get Chandler on the floor.

And still, the Thunder saw something bad enough in his physical that it pulled the plug on the trade.

It’s bad news for the Thunder, but I fear that it’s even worse news for Tyson Chandler.