If Mikhail Prokhorov wants to make a major splash this summer, acquiring a player like Chris Paul would do the trick. Sam Smith says that he hears "talk" that the Nets "intend to make a major run at Paul with the No. 3 draft pick." Sounds like a no-brainer for the Nets, but why would the Hornets do such a thing? To build from scratch with a backcourt of Darren Collison and Marcus Thornton, along with a new coach and rookie Derrick Favors up front, says Smith. The veteran writer also suggests a sign-and-trade deal of Devin Harris for Joe Johnson.

• Nets could look to pursue Chris Paul with No. 3 pick - Sam Smith - Chicago Bulls