Hugh Weber, the man who helped hold the Hornets’ franchise together during the 17 months it was owned by the NBA, is leaving the team, owner Tom Benson said Monday.

Dennis Lauscha, recently named president of the Saints, will hold the same title with the Hornets, overseeing both of Benson’s professional franchises.

“Today we did make a change with Hugh,” Benson said, “and it is important to note that if it were not for his leadership in running the Hornets during a very difficult time, this sale would have not happened. He made the transition very smooth, and he should be commended.

via Jimmy Smith of The Times-Picayune