http://www.nola.com/hornets/t-p/index.ssf?/base/sports-1/1090313983215810.xml Raptors GM says he wants to keep free-agent Peterson Tuesday, July 20, 2004 By John Reid Staff writer Toronto Raptors general manager Rob Babcock said Monday that he plans to try to retain restricted free agent Morris Peterson, who signed a three-year, $15 million offer sheet from the Hornets last week. The Raptors have 15 days to match the Hornets' offer. Though the Raptors' financial decisions are made by a board of directors, Babcock said he plans to recommend that the team keep Peterson. "It's a two-step process, and the basketball decision is entirely mine," Babcock said by telephone. "(Coach) Sam Mitchell and I agree that we want to retain him, but we are aware that the board of directors make the financial decisions." Peterson has played four seasons with the Raptors, averaging 8.3 points as a backup last season. Peterson, who can play small forward and shooting guard, was the Raptors' first-round pick from Michigan State in the 2000 draft. "He can shoot, push the up the court and is a good rebounder," Babcock said. The Raptors have until July 31 to make a decision. "In all likelihood, we'll probably know before then," Hornets general manager Allan Bristow said. Meanwhile, Bristow said Hornets restricted free agent Courtney Alexander was invited to participate in summer league play in Long Beach, Calif., last week but he was unable to participate because he is not healthy. Alexander continues to recover from a ruptured Achilles' tendon, which forced him to miss all of last season. Bristow said the franchise will decide on whether or not to re-sign Alexander in August, giving him time to heal. The Hornets continue to pursue re-signing Robert Traylor, who is an unrestricted free agent. Traylor is receiving interest from the Cleveland Cavaliers and Phoenix Suns. "The major goal right now is to get Traylor signed," Bristow said. "And hopefully, we can do that soon. Negotiations have been very slow, and I feel we want Tractor back in a Hornets uniform." --

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