"It might seem as though the Hornets are a dysfunctional NBA stepchild unable to formulate a trade for guard Chris Paul that would satisfy team owner and Commissioner David Stern. But that front office turmoil hasn't bothered free agent forward Carl Landry, who in 23 games with New Orleans a year ago developed a fondness for the team and city that makes him open to a return no matter the circumstances.

"It's crazy; there's a lot of stuff going on," Landry said by phone Monday afternoon from outside of Indianapolis, where's he spending time working out while waiting to sign a contract with an NBA team. "I like New Orleans and everything about the team, the front office. I know (General Manager) Dell Demps and (Coach ) Monty Williams, and those guys are doing an excellent job. They're trying to build a team."