David West opts out of New Orleans Hornets contract – NBA Update
David West dealt a blow to his club, the New Orleans Hornets, by opting out of his contract and deciding to see what other teams are willing to offer him in the free agency, whenever that begins.
David West’s decision would be seen as a major setback for the franchise, where he was the leading scorer. West averaged 18.9 points to go with 7.6 rebounds last season. The two times All Star was expected to make this decision
although the Hornets had hoped his injury and the subsequent surgery would put him off the idea of hitting the free market. West tore his left anterior cruciate ligament in a game against the Utah Jazz back in March.
Although the surgery is likely to lower the forward’s value in the free agency somewhat, he has still opted for it rather than staying with the Hornets and earn $7.5 million next year. The Hornets are understandably not giving
up on the player and general manager Dell Demps said the franchise will do everything in their power to bring West back next season,
"We have had open communication with David this entire season about his option and knew with either decision that our intention is to pursue David so he can finish his career as a Hornet," Demps said.
David West for his part did not rule out returning to the franchise that drafted him 18th overall back in 2003, but said he felt inclined to test the market and give himself a genuine shot at competing for the biggest
prize,
"It's about making the best decision right now for my family," West said "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."
David West is currently doing rehab work after his surgery and is making a lot of progress. He has kept up his weight training and is also jogging on the treadmill. With the lockout looming large, any stoppage in work could actually
favour David as he gets more time to regain fitness and hence becomes an attractive option for teams around the league.
The situation for the Hornets however is becoming increasingly desperate. The franchise now only has 5 players under contract for the coming season. The most recognizable among them, Chris Paul, will be able to opt out of his contract
next season.
If the Hornets keep going in the same direction as they are now, it’s likely that Paul might ask for a trade this offseason.
Tags: