The Indiana Fever have confirmed that Karima Christmas will be joining the team and will be available for the July 5 game against the San Antonio Silver Stars. The Fever had to trade Roneeka Hodges to get Karima Christmas, and I will be interested in seeing if they made the right decision.
Changing the Guards
The Indiana Fever's decision to exchange guards with the Tulsa Shock has resulted in the loss of a veteran WNBA player. Although it is sad to see Roneeka Hodges leave after a short period of time with the Fever, I think this move may have been motivated by Indiana's search for a younger player. Hodges is 29 while Christmas is only 22.
Who will benefit the most from the recent trade? It may be too early to assess the results, but the Tulsa Shock have been given a chance to improve their defense. The 2012 WNBA season has shown that the Shock need a boost in this area, and the acquisition of Roneeka Hodges is a smart move. They may also be searching for a consistent player who could add to their scoring abilities.
Comparing Numbers for Christmas and Hodges
Karima Christmas is in her second year with the WNBA, but Roneeka Hodges has spent 7 years in the WNBA. Hodges has an average of 3.2 points per game this season while Christmas has a slightly higher average of 3.6 points per game. I think the Indiana Fever may be hoping that Karima Christmas continues to improve after the transfer. She has been showing signs of better focus during her recent games. Although Hodges is considered the veteran player, her numbers make the move appear almost like an even trade.
Looking for Youth?
The Indiana Fever may have been motivated to make the trade based on the age of the guards. Indiana's roster has often leaned more on veteran players instead of searching for new talent. Now, the acquisition of Karima Christmas may be an attempt to move in a different direction. The team could be trying to nurture young talent that will last several seasons.
More from this contributor:
Indiana Fever Start 2012 Training Camp: Fan View
Indiana Fever's Tamika Catchings wins WNBA Cares Award: Fan's reaction
Indiana Fever's Shyra Ely reveals her fashion side: Fan's reaction
Lana has been following the Indiana Fever since they were founded in 2000. Follow her @Lana_Bandoim on Twitter.
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