NEW ORLEANS (AP) — The Hornets say they’ve matched the Phoenix Suns’ four-year, $58 million offer to Eric Gordon, keeping the restricted free agent guard in New Orleans.
The Hornets hope the 23-year-old Gordon can be the center piece of a rebuilding effort that includes first-overall draft choice Anthony Davis and 10th overall pick Austin Rivers.
Gordon was limited to nine games last season because of a bruised right knee that required minor surgery. However, he averaged a team-high 20.6 points, and New Orleans was 6-3 when he played.
The Hornets acquired Gordon shortly before last season in a trade that sent All-Star point guard Chris Paul to the Los Angeles Clippers.
Gordon said last week that he hoped to play for Phoenix, but that did not deter New Orleans from retaining his rights.
