The Phoenix Suns made a big statement when they offered Eric Gordon a maxed out contract, and the front office now has every intention of signing the talented shooting guard. Gordon is a restricted free agent meaning his current team, the New Orleans Hornets, have the right to match the offer sheet presented by Phoenix.
The Hornets, who acquired Gordon in the deal that sent Chris Paul to L.A. last winter, have every intention of trying to keep him around. And if they can't, they'll hope for a sign-and-trade deal to get some kind of compensation back. If these latest statements from Gordon are any indication though, he won't consider signing with New Orleans.
Here's the latest from Ric Bucher of ESPN.
"Phoenix just showed a lot more interest, overall, and definitely in how they negotiated," Gordon said. "I don't know what New Orleans' plans are for me. There are no negotiations right now."
GM Dell Demps declined to comment on Gordon's remarks, but a league source said the Hornets are fully committed to matching the Suns' offer sheet. The Hornets identified Gordon as their most talented player even after they drafted Kentucky power forward Anthony Davis with the No. 1 pick and plan to retain him as, if nothing else, an asset.
That the Hornets drafted Duke guard Austin Rivers with the 10th pick also makes Gordon question exactly what their plans are for him.
"They drafted another shooting guard, a combo guard like me, which tells me they have another plan," Gordon said.
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