New Hornets coach Monty Williams doesn't want the team to trade All-Star point guard Chris Paul.

Trade rumors have intensified as they often do around the annual NBA Draft, but Williams expects New Orleans to turn down offers for Paul.

"Chris was the main thing that excited me about this job," Williams said Tuesday. "So many people are begging for a point guard. You're talking about the best one in the game. I couldn't envision being here without Chris."

The Hornets have the 11th pick in Thursday night's draft, but would likely move up if they decided to deal Paul.