Guard Eric Gordon will be returning to New Orleans after the Hornets matched Phoenix’s maximum-salary offer of $58 million over four years.

“Eric is a phenomenal player that we are thrilled to have in our organization”, Hornets general manager Dell Demps said. “We thank Tom and Gayle Benson for making this possible with their commitment to the team, our fans and the New Orleans Community.

Gordon said he was open to returning, although he wanted to explore his options as a restricted free agent and eventually said Phoenix “is just where my heart is right now.” But the Hornets had said all along that they planned to match any offer.

“There is always a business element to the NBA when dealing with contracts but I never lost my appreciation for the New Orleans fans,” said Gordon. “I look forward to giving my very best on the court this season to make our team successful.”

Gordon, acquired last December in the Chris Paul trade, led the team with 20.6 points per game to go along with 3.4 assists, 2.8 rebounds and 1.4 assists in nine games in his first season with New Orleans.

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