NBA Trade Rumors: Report Confirms Hornets' Desire to Trade Chris Paul

There have been a lot of rumors surrounding New Orleans Hornets star point guard Chris Paul in recent weeks, but it seems almost certain now that he will be traded, maybe even before the season starts on Christmas.

According to ESPN, "sources close to the situation" said that Paul met with the Hornets on Monday, but said he is not prepared to sign an extension. Given he is slated for free agency in 2012, the Hornets are reportedly hoping to get a trade done this month to avoid distractions.

Paul has been linked to virtually every team in the NBA, including the Los Angeles Clippers, Golden State Warriors, Houston Rockets, Atlanta Hawks and Los Angeles Lakers.

The Clippers, Warriors, Rockets and Hawks have reportedly pursued Paul the most.

While the Clippers and Warriors are said to be the most preferred trade partners for the Hornets based on their trade assets, a deal does appear to be hinging on Paul's assurance that he will stay with these teams beyond this season.

However, the Rockets, Boston Celtics and defending champion Dallas Mavericks have reportedly said they need no such assurance from Paul.

It's also worth noting that sources said the Hornets believe they can get more in exchange for Paul throughout the league than from the New York Knicks, a team he has been associated with the most.

What does this all add up to?

A frenzy if you ever saw one.

It's no wonder Paul has so many suitors. He's widely regarded as one of the best point guards in the league, if not the best, and the 26-year-old has career averages of 18.7 points, 10.0 assists, 4.1 rebounds and 2.4 steals. He's a true franchise player to build a team around, or help win a championship.

It's still up for debate who will land Chris Paul, but you can bet he won't be with the Hornets for much longer.