The Bobcats and Warriors were said to be "neck and neck" in the race for free agent forward Carl Landry, with Charlotte potentially able to offer more money via a sign-and-trade deal. However, according to Rick Bonnell of the Charlotte Observer, it's unlikely the Bobcats will be able to pull off a sign-and-trade to acquire Landry (Twitter link).
There are a number of obstacles in the way of a sign-and-trade involving Landry, the Bobcats, and the Hornets. Not only would Landry have to agree to go to the Bobcats, but the Hornets would have to agree to send him to Charlotte, which would mean acquiring a palatable package in return. One report suggested that DeSagana Diop's expiring contract could interest the Hornets, and I'd imagine New Orleans would also acquire a draft pick in any Diop/Landry swap. But based on Bonnell's tweet, it doesn't appear those talks have much momentum.
If the Bobcats fall out of the running for Landry, the Warriors certainly look like the odds-on favorite to land him. Golden State probably can't use its full $5MM mid-level exception, but should be able to offer at least a portion of it to Landry. As I wrote last week, the 28-year-old forward now has the best 2011/12 PER of all the remaining free agents.