`I don't think I fit into their plans'

Bogues said he isn't getting the work he needs to prepare for the season. David Wesley looks like the starter, and Bogues' role behind Wesley is unclear.

``I'm not in any playing-shape condition because I'm not being used,'' said Bogues.

``How can you get into the flow when you can't get any time in practice? And the same in (exhibitions)?''

Entering his 10th Hornets season, Bogues played in five of eight exhibitions, averaging just under 12 minutes. Wesley started all eight, averaging 29 minutes. The Hornets also have Tony Delk and Corey Beck playing point guard.

Hornets vice president Bob Bass said this is not a unique situation.

``It's the kind of thing that happens with a lot of players -- they all want minutes,'' said Bass.

Bogues' agent, David Falk, took issue with that.

``I disagree with Bob -- this is not players fighting for minutes,'' said Falk. ``This is a player who started all last season when they didn't show as much concern about his injury. Now they sign a free agent (Wesley), and things are different.''

Bogues started 65-of-82 games last season, but it was apparent this summer the Hornets were de-emphasizing him. In June, coach Dave Cowens suggested Bogues retire to avoid further damage to his chronically injured right knee. In July, the team signed Wesley to a seven-year, $22 million contract.

Bogues said repeatedly Monday he's not complaining. However, it's clear his relationship with team management is strained.

``One way or another, this thing is going to resolve itself. Either they're going to let me go or something else is going to happen,'' said Bogues. ``Right now, I don't think I fit into their plans. They're not making me part of their plans, so I'm just waiting like everybody else.''

Asked about Bogues' comments, Cowens said he didn't want to ``get in a debate through the press.'' Cowens did say it probably doesn't make sense to release Bogues.

That could have more to do with money than basketball. Bogues' contract guarantees him $1.8 million this season and at least $800,000 next season.

If the Hornets cut Bogues, they would still have to pay that salary, assuming he cleared waivers. If the Hornets keep him, they have a backup point guard or, if Bogues retires because of injury, they recoup much of his salary through disability insurance.

``I think they should let him go someplace else. But it's patently obvious they won't do that because of the disability insurance,'' said Falk.

``The situation is obvious. They're trying to make it as difficult as possible for him, to induce him to retire. I don't think that's a good way to manage people.''

The Hornets open Friday at home against the New York Knicks. Bogues says he's pain-free and there's no need to retire. He wants to keep playing in Charlotte if the Hornets have use for him.

``I think I deserve a lot better than what's going on right now.''

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