NEW ORLEANS — David West is uncertain whether his NBA future lies in New Orleans or elsewhere.
What the Hornets’ leading scorer knew for sure Monday was that he wasn’t going to allow recent reconstructive surgery on his left knee to scare him away from free agency.
“It’s about making the best decision right now for my family,” West said on opting out of the final year of his contract. “It’s not taking New Orleans out of the equation, just an opportunity to sign a better deal, and an opportunity to make sure the decision I make for the next three to four years puts me in the best possible situation to win — not just winning and making the playoffs, but legitimately having a chance to compete for championships.”
West, a two-time all-star who was drafted 18th overall by New Orleans in 2003, started 70 games last season, averaging 18.9 points to go with 7.6 rebounds before tearing his left anterior cruciate ligament during a victory at Utah on March 24. His option is worth $7.5 million.
Center Aaron Gray also opted out of the last year of his contract, while former Colorado State star Jason Smith is a restricted free agent whose future with the Hornets remains uncertain.
Felton wants to stick in Portland
PORTLAND, Ore. — After being sent from the Nuggets in a draft-day trade, point guard Raymond Felton was introduced during a news conference in Portland and said he’s looking to make the Trail Blazers his team for years to come.
“I want something long-term here, and I definitely look forward to that situation,” Felton said. “But I’ve got one year left on my deal, and that’s all I’m worried about.”
Footnotes.
Owners will be briefed on collective bargaining and revenue sharing today during a board of governors meeting in Dallas, with the CBA set to expire Thursday night.
• Guard Daequan Cook received a qualifying offer from the Thunder, making him a restricted free agent.
• Mavericks guard Roddy Beaubois had surgery for the second time since fracturing his left foot last summer. An immediate prognosis was not available.
The Associated Press
