New Orleans Hornets guard Chris Paul, one of the team's co-captains with long-time teammate David West, affirmed his affection for West and said he "respects" West's decision to opt out of the final year of his contract.

"D. West is like a brother to me," Paul said in a text message, "and I respect the fact that he made a decision that he believes in the best interests of himself and his family."

Paul, a four-time NBA All-Star, hasn't yet responded to a query about how West's decision might affect his future in New Orleans.