I don't see teh Clippers getting him for cheaper either. Is anyone truly convinced that Aminu and Bledsoes are starters in this league?
They'll get him for cheaper, because the Clippers have more leverage. The Hornets have to know that the only reason that they got an offer as good as they did is because CP3 offered to commit for two seasons (or so the rumor goes). No other team will come close to that offer, since CP3 won't commit to an extension (and further due to other teams just not having great assets).
When push comes to shove and the question is, to deal or not to deal, the Hornets are going to have to deal. Otherwise, they'll get nothing, rather than a potential lottery pick and several young players.
But I'd have to guess you could do better on that even on a team that wants him on a rental. I still am completely perplexed on their indifference to Rondo, but surely even Monta Ellis would be more appealing than the Clips pu pu platter for one, no?
Couple things that are semi related:
-It must kill the Hornets to see what the Nuggets got for Melo and then to look at what they're being offered for Chris Paul
-Wonder if the Nets would consider making a run at Chris Paul if they lose out on the Dwight sweepstakes.