The Hornets know that it will be difficult to keep Chris Paul in New Orleans, writes David Aldridge, who spoke with a member of their front office. Aldridge indicates that the team understands that Paul intends to join the Knicks.

"Another thing also becomes clear when you dial the 504. The Hornets are going into this with eyes wide open," writes Aldridge. "They know that Paul spent much of the summer in New York at lockout meetings -- and also with Knicks star Carmelo Anthony. They know that even if he can't get as big a salary from the Knicks as with other teams, it's likely his representatives have all manner of endorsements at the ready in New York that would make up the difference. They believe he'd prefer going to a team where he doesn't have to be 'the man,' and that the Knicks would be just that, with Anthony and All-Star Amar'e Stoudemire willing and able to take the spotlight and the heat that come with it."

The team appreciates Paul's contribution to the Hornets and the New Orleans community over the years and wants to preserve a good relationship with the All-Star point guard if and when he leaves town.