:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/photo_images/6472753/20120413_jla_ah6_207.jpg)
New Orleans Hornets guard Eric Gordon has agreed to a four-year Maximum Offer sheet worth $58 million with the Phoenix Suns. Gordon, a restricted free agent, told ESPN's Eric Broussard that he doesn't want to return to New Orleans, but they still have the right to match the offer and retain their star shooting guard. Because he wants out, the Hornets could then shop him to interested parties.
New Orleans have previously said that they would match any and all offers and this was confirmed by multiple sources Tuesday night.
Hornets plan on matching four-year, $58 million offer sheet guard Eric Gordon plans to sign with the Suns, a source told Yahoo! Sports.
— Marc J. Spears (@SpearsNBAYahoo) July 4, 2012
Of course, New Orleans could look to a sign-and-trade in order to get something out of Gordon, who obviously doesn't want to remain a Hornet. Gordon reportedly told Broussard, "I strongly feel (the Suns) are the right franchise for me. Phoenix is just where my heart is.''
Gordon, 6'3 215, averaged 20.6 points per game in 2011-12 for the Hornets, and would be a big-time scorer for the Suns if the Hornets allow him to leave. There are sure to be updates to this story as we find out what the front office in New Orleans has in mind, so stay right here at SB Nation Arizona for the latest on this development.