Hornets GM Bower says he listens to every offer, while new coach Williams wants Paul to stay

Hornets new coach doesn’t want Paul traded

WESTWEGO, La. — Hornets coach Monty Williams says Chris Paul was “the main thing” that excited him about taking his new job and that he could not envision entering next season without the three-time All Star.

Speaking at a pre-draft workout at the Hornets’ training headquarters on Tuesday, Williams said Paul is the best point guard in the game. He says Paul will probably be in New Orleans for a long time, despite other team’s ongoing efforts to trade for him.

Hornets general manager Jeff Bower says he’s received many calls about possible trades but declined to specify which teams inquired.

Bower says he considers every offer, but also says the Hornets place a high value on what Paul brings to their franchise and the community.