With trade rumors swirling, Hornets point guard Chris Paul said Wednesday that he's open to a trade if the team isn't committed to winning a title.

"My first choice is to be in New Orleans," Paul told ESPN The Magazine's Chris Broussard. "I just want to make sure we're committed to winning. If we're not committed to winning and trying to get better so we can contend with the Lakers, the Celtics and all these other top teams, then I'm open to being traded."

Reports that the other teams were calling the Hornets about Paul surfaced earlier this week.

New Orleans general manager Jeff Bower and new coach Monty Williams have downplayed speculation.

"I'm fine with staying in New Orleans, but I want to make sure we're committed to winning," said Paul. "I don't want to rebuild. I want to win now. It's nothing personal against the city. I love that city. But my biggest thing is winning."