re: When exactly was Gordon given a 4-6 week timeline?

It can be argued that putting on the happy face makes him appear more desireable to everyone, not just New Orleans. It would have the additional benefit of endearing him to some here should a trade not materialize for a while or ever.

I've heard things claiming to be specific knowledge of him not being injured a lick and just the opposite.

Regardless, it is in everyone's best interest that he be able to play at a high level in mid-December and that he be a shiny happy person from now, until then, and beyond.

That serves Eric, the franchise, and the fans. The opposite does the opposite. So, I read nothing in there.

I want him gone for another reason entirely. I want us to be able to select players for the team whose contract dates don't bunch up. Right now, he's on the same timescale as Anderson and Davis and Rivers. Davis' extension will kick him out of the mix. If Rivers pans out, he'll be restricted. Gordon and Anderson then become an issue. Replace him with a guy signed in the coming offseason, and we have a better stagger.