Although NBA sources tell the Sentinel that the Orlando Magic are open to trading Steve Francis, Francis' agent said the point guard wants to stay in Orlando and hopes a team-imposed suspension is lifted so he can play Wednesday night.

Jeff Fried, Francis' agent, said Saturday that Francis wants to remain with the Magic and has not "given any indication otherwise." However, Fried said he'll ask the team next week if it intends to trade Francis when the guard and club officials meet.

Stephen A. Smith of ESPN reported Friday night that Francis wanted out of Orlando and the club was seeking a trade with Minnesota that would send Francis to the Timberwolves for forward Wally Szczerbiak and guard Trent Hassell.

"At this point, I'd very much like to discuss with them issues on the court or trades. . . . Let that be done face-to-face," Fried said. "That is their decision [whether to trade him]. Hopefully, when the air is cleared . . . I'd just like to say that [trading Francis] is pretty premature on that end."

Assistant General Manager Otis Smith said the Magic "had not reached that point" and that "Steve has value to us."

Francis was suspended for conduct detrimental to the team after refusing Coach Brian Hill's orders to re-enter Wed-nesday's game against the SuperSonics in Seattle. It was the culmination of a stretch in which Francis' scoring average dived, and he played passively and uninspired.

After the suspension, Francis headed to Houston, where he has a home from his days as a Rocket, to "clear his head," Fried said.

"Talking with Steve, he has remorse. He was disappointed in himself at that moment. . . . He knows the coach makes the decisions," Fried said.