Hornets GM Still Looking To Deal Chris Paul

WESTWEGO, La. (AP) — New Orleans general manager Dell Demps says he has been given autonomy to make another trade for All-Star guard Chris Paul.

Demps said Friday that since a three-team deal that would have sent Paul to the Los Angeles Lakers did not go through, the Hornets are going to "keep plugging away." Demps says they are "resuming talks" and that "everything is open."

Demps would not say whether New Orleans was talking specifically with the Lakers.

The 26-year-old Paul was seen walking in the training facility Friday wearing a black Hornets practice jersey, and he appeared to be in good spirits.

Demps says the Hornets "love Chris'" and would like to keep him, but he has told them that he is not prepared to sign an extension.