John Reid of the New Orleans Times-Picayune reports: The New Orleans Hornets can begin Monday negotiating for a contract extension with point guard Baron Davis and his new agent, Jerome Stanley.

Davis, who could not be reached for comment, indicated through his Los Angeles-based agent that he would like to be traded to New York, Chicago or a team on the West Coast rather than sign a contract extension with the Hornets.

"About a week ago Baron made some statements, and as a result people (general managers) have called a lot, but that doesn't mean we're shopping him," said Bob Bass, the Hornets vice president of basketball operations.

"We couldn't start negotiating with him and his agent until July 1."

Bass said three teams inquired about the availability of Davis before the NBA draft this week.

The Los Angeles Clippers made an offer to the Hornets that would have sent forward Lamar Odom and their eighth and 12th first-round picks to New Orleans for Davis. Bass rejected the offer and said the Hornets have no interest in trading Davis under any circumstances.

However, several teams continue to pursue. A league source said the Cleveland Cavaliers were interested in trading point guard Andre Miller to the Hornets for Davis, but the Hornets weren't interested. Miller, who is from Los Angeles, remains on the trading block.

The New York Knicks reportedly were willing to trade guard Latrell Sprewell for Davis.

The Detroit Pistons also are in the market for a point guard.

"We have to talk to him and his agent and go from there," Bass said.

Davis, who will make $3.9 million, can become a restricted free agent at the end of the 2002-2003 season. The Hornets have the option of matching any offer.

Via New Orleans Times-Picayune

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