Mon, Oct 29, 2007 at 12:00am

WESLEY HEADS TO NEW JERSEY

The New Jersey Nets acquired guard David Wesley from the New Orleans Hornets for forward Bernard Robinson and center Mile Ilic.

What does it give the New Jersey Nets
He is no longer the consistent combo guard who in his prime averaged about 15 points and six assists per game. But at 36, Wesley brings the Nets another steady veteran hand who can provide quality minutes off the bench. Jersey's core is a mostly older bunch who are still trying to win an NBA title, and teams like that often go for players who have been around the block. Wesley won't likely play much, but he will help youngsters like Marcus Williams develop while providing mistake-free play.

What does it give the New Orleans Pelicans
The Hornets have been pretty good in recent years at stockpiling underrated young talent, and that applies to Ilic and Robinson. While neither player was a first-rounder in the NBA draft, both are athletic guys who still have a certain amount of upside. Robinson is a solid defender and while Ilic is still raw, he has the coordination and mobility to be an above-average 7-footer. The Nets also included some cash in this deal.

Fantasy impact

Player focus

New Jersey Nets

David Wesley G