– John DeShazier, The Times-Picayune
Immediately, Demps stepped into a sticky situation in New Orleans.
The Hornets need Paul if they want to reach the playoffs, need him because of his ability to make everyone around him better and because of the belief he inspires when hes on the court.
True, theres no necessity for him to whistle while he works. But it sure would help if hes happy or at least compliant enough to go along with the program, in order to get the best out of him.
Demps stepped into that without much time to prepare Monday, having never met Paul and probably not being all that giddy over his first face-to-face with New Orleans star player taking place with sides aligned Paul along with his brother, C.J., and agent Leon Rose; Demps along with President Hugh Weber and Coach Monty Williams.
You dont expect crisis management on the first day of the job.
Yet Demps, to his credit, displayed the cool you would expect of a general manager. What really happened during that 90-minute give-and-take isnt known, but at least the sides emerged unified from the standpoint that, apparently, no more verbal jabs will be lobbed.
Paul didnt request a trade, and Demps said hes confident Paul will be a Hornet this season.
He was energetic, he was open, he was honest, Demps said. I think he showed that he wants to win. Thats what we want to do as well.
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