Although Impressed with Bonzi, Bobcats Put Ely As #1 Priority

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

Wells makes good impression
Bickerstaff: Any offer hinges on Ely's status
Charlotte Bobcats coach-general manager Bernie Bickerstaff liked what he heard Thursday from free agent Bonzi Wells.

However, the Bobcats haven't made a contract offer to Wells, a guard-forward, and probably wouldn't until Melvin Ely's status is resolved.

"Our issue first is to work things out for Mel," said Bickerstaff, who's looking into sign-and-trade options for Ely, a restricted free agent. In the alternative, Ely could sign a one-season qualifying offer of about $3 million to stay with the Bobcats.

Wells was in Charlotte on Thursday to speak with the Bobcats' administration and coaching staff.

He had a reputation for being high-maintenance in stays with Portland, Memphis and Sacramento.

"It was a good interview," Bickerstaff said. "We asked tough questions and he fielded them well -- very forthright."

Bickerstaff said Wells was scheduled to visit the Miami Heat on Friday, and has drawn strong interest from the Denver Nuggets.

[ducks]

dumb

[Zunni]

If I was trying to build a team from the ground up with young players, Bonzi Wells would be the LAST player I would bring in. He is bad news on burnt toast. Good pass, Bernie.

[THE SIXTH MAN]

If I was trying to build a team from the ground up with young players, Bonzi Wells would be the LAST player I would bring in. He is bad news on burnt toast. Good pass, Bernie.

True, but this signing would only make sense for the Bobcats financially.