Eric Gordon remains a central figure in the Hornets' long term plans, even though the prolific shooting guard turned down a four-year extension offer from the club, New Orleans general manager Dell Demps said. "It's a situation where we talked, thought we came close to an agreement and it just didn't work out, but we are still very optimistic we can get something done this summer," Demps, who was traveling Thursday, said in a phone interview with The Associated Press. "It's not a big issue. It's not a situation that is uncommon. ... There are other measures that you can use to sign Eric to a long-term contract and that's our goal." By passing on the Hornets' offer, Gordon essentially chose to become a restricted free agent when the next league year begins July 1. While other teams can make offers to Gordon at that time, the Hornets will have the right to match or exceed the maximum offer other teams are allowed to make. The Hornets, who host Orlando on Friday night, did not practice on Thursday, but Gordon, who has been sidelined by a right knee bruise, released a statement through the team. "We all worked hard on the extension, but sometimes business is business," Gordon said. "Right now my sole focus is on staying in great shape, and making sure I get back to 100 percent health as quickly as possible so I can return to playing and helping my teammates and coach Monty (Williams) win games. That is really what it is all about right now for me." Read more: http://espn.go.com/nba/story/_/id/7...rleans-hornets-see-eric-gordon-long-term-plan
