Tyson Chandler figures it must have been about the money.

More than two years later, the big man who is now energizing the Dallas Mavericks still has no other explanation for why his services weren't welcomed on the Oklahoma City Thunder.

“I honestly feel it had more to do with the salary,” Chandler told The Oklahoman on Wednesday. “Because when I looked at it, it just didn't make sense.”

On Feb. 17, 2009, the Thunder traded Joe Smith, Chris Wilcox and the draft rights to DeVon Hardin to New Orleans in exchange for Chandler. Roughly 24 hours later, the deal was dead. The Thunder had pulled out, rescinding the trade because of health concerns. Chandler's problematic toe troubled the Thunder's medical staff.

“I just didn't see that being that big of an issue,” Chandler said. “It all seemed fishy to be honest with you.”