In an interview with the Associated Press, Hornets' owner George Shinn expressed his disappointment in the progress being made by the city of New Orleans.

"I've been back to New Orleans probably a half-dozen times since the storm, and each time we go back, I have a car there and we go back through the areas," Shinn said. "I hear all the politicians talk about all the great things that's happening: `We'll be back in a year. We'll be back in five months.' You know, crazy stuff."

Despite the strong words, Shinn said that the Hornets intend to honor their lease with the New Oreleans Arena.

"I have seen virtually very, very little improvement and it's very discouraging and very depressing."