Kemba clarifies comments on chances of leaving Hornets

Back in July, Charlotte Hornets point guard Kemba Walker appeared to pour cold water on any notion he would head for his hometown New York Knicks in free agency next summer: "I doubt it," he said at the time.

This week, however, Walker clarified his remarks and sounded more like a player ready to keep his options open.

"I've been on one team in seven years, going on eight years," Walker told Scoop B Radio's Brandon Robinson. "So when it's my time, I'll make a decision. That's all I said. I said, 'I didn't see myself in a Knicks jersey because I've only been in one jersey.' You know what I mean?"

Walker's contract expires after this season, and the two-time All-Star figures to be one of several big names on the free-agent market. The Knicks could have up to $41 million in salary cap space next summer, while the Hornets have conceded it will be difficult to reach an extension with their franchise player before the season ends.

Charlotte has made the postseason just twice in Walker's seven-year career, and its success this season could influence his plans.

"I just want to make the playoffs," Walker said. "That's it. I want to get back to the playoffs consistently, so (this coming season) is the first step for consistent playoff runs."