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Chris Paul Will Remain a New Orleans Hornet. A Very, Very Rich Hornet.

Matt Moore — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 00:25:00 EST

Filed under: Hornets, Western, New Orleans

Chris Paul is considered a member of that group of players that includes Dwyane Wade, LeBron James, and others at the elite level, all of which had contracts set to expire after 2009/2010 through a variety of mechanisms. It would appear that at least one of them is happy where he's at.

The New Orleans Times-Picayune is reporting that Paul and the Hornets have agreed in principle to a three-year extension, with an option for a fourth year that brings the total value to $68 million dollars. The deal will keep him with the Hornets a while longer. It's a huge signing for the smaller market Hornets, and gives them a foundation for success for the next five years.

On a day where sadness seems to pervade the Internet regarding the Sonics departure from Seattle, its ironic that such a feel-good story as Paul signing a long term deal with what was a struggling franchise happens. Why? Because without the overwhelming and enthusiastic support of the citizens of Oklahoma City who did such a dastardly thing as "actually coming to the games," the Hornets might not have gotten enough support to even stay in New Orleans, where people are now actually coming to the games. Interesting. Of course, on the flip side, if it hadn't been for Paul's outstanding play, Oklahoma City may not have gotten so enthused about the NBA, which precipitated Clay Bennett's chicanery. It's the circle of life. Or at least greed, money, and marketability.

Chris Paul Will Remain a New Orleans Hornet. A Very, Very Rich Hornet. originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Fri, 04 Jul 2008 00:25:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Chris Paul Is Going to Get Paid Like a Free Agent Soon Too

Will Brinson — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 22:30:00 EST

Filed under: Hornets, Western, NBA Rumors, New Orleans

If you (note: Hubie Brown voice) are the New Orleans Hornets and you have a point guard under your control who is going to be a free agent in a few years, and you know that you need him to be competitive for an NBA title in a smaller market, you lock him up.

The Hornets -- despite notoriously "frugal" owner George Shinn's ways -- are doing just that, as John Reid of the New Orleans Times Picayune is reporting that Chris Paul and NOLA are getting ready to reach an agreement on a max-deal four or five year extension.

"We're going to try and get it done in the next 24 to 48 hours once I get down there,'' [Paul's agent Lance] Young said by telephone. "I think if you go back and look, there's nobody who did a three-year deal of all the max deals done in the last few years. I would say three years is not what he is going to do. It will be a four or a five-year deal.''

Paul's contract will range from $60 million to $80 million, depending on the length. Young said he and Bower spoke by telephone on Tuesday, the first day teams could begin negotiating contracts with free agents.

Let's be perfectly clear: if you are the the New Orleans Hornets, you give Chris Paul whatever money and how many ever years he wants. He is most certainly one of the top five players in the league, and while many might take Kobe or LeBron if they were starting a team, I think Paul is a legitimate candidate.

And even if you disagree, Paul was most certainly an MVP candidate last year, most certainly the reason for the Hornets resurgence and most certainly worthy of this kind of contract.

Chris Paul Is Going to Get Paid Like a Free Agent Soon Too originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Tue, 01 Jul 2008 22:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Portland Buys Another Asset: Pick #27

Tom Ziller — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 10:23:00 EST

Filed under: Trail Blazers, Hornets, NBA Draft, NBA Rumors, New Orleans, Euroleague

Paul Allen's riches keep stocking Kevin Pritchard's cupboards, don't they? Last June, the Blazers bought James Jones and the pick which became Rudy Fernandez from the cash-strapped Suns. On Tuesday, word got out that Pritchard had pilfered away the #27 pick from New Orleans for the standard fee of $3 million.

Recent dispatches from the excellent Hornets 24/7 indicated N.O. didn't seem too likely to fall in love with any prospects expected to be available, so the sale of the pick isn't surprising. The identity of the buyer, though, is a bit surprising. As Henry Abbott notes, Portland already has too many players and too many picks (three second-rounders this year, plus #13 overall). Plain as day, Pritchard looks like he wants to move up into the top-10, possibly to grab either Joe Alexander or D.J. Augustin, both of whom impressed in workouts.

Maybe that's not the play at all, though. Here's my crack~~pot~~ spoon theory: Allen wants to tap into the European market in a big way, so he's building a second pro basketball roster with the aim of purchasing a Europe-based club. He could stock the Blazers and the Euro club each summer based on needs out of his pool of 20 or so players (plus whatever free agents he needs). Raef LaFrentz and Channing Frye would destroy the Adriatic League!

Portland Buys Another Asset: Pick #27 originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Wed, 25 Jun 2008 10:23:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NBA Draft Crystal Ballin': New Orleans Hornets

Will Brinson — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 12:30:00 EST

Filed under: Hornets, NBA Draft, New Orleans

Crystal Ballin' takes a team-by-team look at what should, could, and probably will happen in the June 26th NBA Draft.

Now that the Birdman (Ka-kaw) is back, the Hornets are really only one or two pieces away from contending for a championship that they could have won last year anyway. Which makes this pick tough -- New Orleans certainly has needs, but whether or not those can be immediately answered at 27 will determine whether they actually end up pulling the trigger on any first rounders.

Picks: #27

Needs: A scorer from the two. They need some frontcourt depth too, but they can acquire that without having to use a draft pick. Not to mention an immediate offensive impact shooting guard takes the pressure off of Peja and Chris Paul (vis a vis Jannero Pargo seeing more minutes at the point).

Best case scenario: Chris Douglas-Roberts or Courtney Lee somehow drops to the Hornets in the first ... which a lot of mocks actually have happening. I think they gets pulled on before then but, oh, the three letter nicknames we'd see. Give me a second, I'll figure something out for Lee.

More likely scenario: If CDR or Lee don't fall, expect to see the Hornets bust a move. The upside of J.J. Hickson would have to be tempting, but he probably doesn't help enough right away to make it worth missing out on the possibility of addition via trade.

Please don't take: Supernintendo Chalmers could play the two for the Hornets, but so can Pargo (barring a bolt). Last year, maybe this team looks to build depth behind CP3 but an instant offensive impact guy or a frontcourt impact player of the bench are smarter tweaks to try and put this team over the top.

Trade possibilities: Very high. I've got a theory that the Hornets would be willing to make a move with Rod Thorn (if he thinks a swap of 21 and 27 can still ... net him upside and an asset) to trade up, but a lot of folks thinks the Hornets might move down, and the folks they've been working out make it seem like that's a strong possibility, especially since Lee is the only lockjob first round talent.

NBA Draft Crystal Ballin': New Orleans Hornets originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Mon, 23 Jun 2008 12:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Is Byron Scott the Next 'Franchise' Coach?

Tom Ziller — Wed, 28 May 2008 23:30:00 EST

Filed under: Hornets, New Orleans

Hornets brass announced they have reached an extension agreement with Byron Scott today, locking up the Coach of the Year through 2009-10. No dollars reported yet, but John Reid of the New Orleans Times-Picayune estimates roughly $6 million a year, based on previous demands. $6 million well spent, I'd say.

While some CotY winners reek of fluke (Doc Rivers, Sam Mitchell), Scott has evoked the sense of cornerstone. No one would've flinched had the extension been for four, five years; in fact, the brevity of the deal is a bit off-putting, considering my forthcoming theory. But it took only six days for the sides to reach an agreement, which indicates these guys really like each other.

So, could Scott turn into the next Gregg Popovich (who quietly got extended this week) or Jerry Sloan? Set aside the disciplinarian/angry-face comparisons and focus on the tenure -- the pair have been in their respective arenas so long they've become fabric of their franchises. Nowhere else in the modern NBA do you see that on the bench. Scott's young, and his team is young. Could you see him coaching a 32-year-old Chris Paul in 2018? The prospect's more likely than most others, with only Nate McMillan sitting in a similar sort of comfort as a young coach.

(Of course, this requires steady management from the team, something Hornets owner George Shinn's not exactly known for.)

Is Byron Scott the Next 'Franchise' Coach? originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Wed, 28 May 2008 23:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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7 Things to Keep an Eye on in Game 7: San Antonio Spurs at New Orleans Hornets

Matt Moore — Mon, 19 May 2008 10:45:00 EST

Filed under: Hornets, Spurs, Western, NBA Playoffs, New Orleans

Game Seven. No way out except onward. The defending champs responded at home and sent a message about their physical approach. Now the Hornets are at home, hoping to knock off the Spurs and keep them from their "one for the thumb." In an expanded edition of our playoff game previews, here are seven things to keep an eye on in tonight's Spurs-Hornets Game 7.

1. Let's Get The Ugliness Out Of The Way: David West will play. So will Robert Horry. And it'll probably be fine and nothing else will happen. But the tension will be there. And don't be completely shocked if there's another incident of "good playoff basketball" somewhere that ends up with West clutching his back again. These things "just happen." Meanwhile, Horry will be booed like he probably never has been before. Suns fans didn't get another shot at him that season and are notoriously civil. I would not expect the same treatment from the New Orleans folks. There's going to be a lot of physical play and don't be surprised if we see more technical fouls as both teams are really getting to dislike one another.

2. Duncan Versus West: Mano A Mano: The Spurs are 1-1 in putting Tim Duncan on David West one on one. Duncan was able to shut down the All-Star before the "good hard playoff basketball" by using his size and length in conjunction with a cohesive Spurs effort that jacked up the spacing for the Hornets on the offensive end. Conversely, in Game 5, with a healthy David West and the confidence of homecourt, West was nearly unstoppable. If he gets separation from Duncan and freezes him with the drive fake, he can get his jumper going, and that's when he gets scary. Conversely, Tyson Chandler has the job of guarding Duncan on the defensive end, but West has held his own. You never know which Tim Duncan is going to show up anymore. The bamboozled veteran that seems to slow and too clumsy to ever get anything going, or the best power forward in the history of the game. The Spurs can win without Duncan going off, and they can lose with Duncan scoring 30+, but both scenarios are very difficult to achieve.

3. The Arc Of The Covenant: I've talked a lot elsewhere about the outside shooting differential this series between the two and how important it is, but essentially it comes down to this. Whoever shoots better from the arc will win the game. It's that simple. At home, the Hornets have managed to collapse the defense in, opening up shots for Peja Stojakovic on the left wing and Mo Peterson in the right corner. Conversely, Brent Barry has been the only Spur to step up on the road from beyond the arc. Bruce Bowen has streaks where he lights it up but he hasn't been able to keep the flame lit. The Spurs need to work Ginobili on the right wing as the entry pass man in order to create confusion in the Hornets which frees up open three pointers on the rotation. In a series this tight, it comes down to something as simple as how both teams shoot the ball to decide who advances to face the Lakers.

4. Point Points, Point By Point: Tony Parker has had a series that, against anyone else, would make him look magnificent, like the top-5 NBA point guard he is. Unfortunately, he's up against Chris Paul, who's become the best point guard in the league hands down, and has shown that off in the playoffs. These two go at each other like nothing else. What I've found especially interesting is how each one tries to take the momentum away from the other one. Say Paul comes off a screen and roll, loses Parker, attacks the basket and scores. Parker immediately sprints to quarter court, gets the ball, runs full speed for the other end and tries to get a layup to answer. Paul does the same thing. Both of them try to temper the other one's scoring with efficient responses. This works because the 1st scorer is still trying to recover defensively after the layup. Transition defense against the point guards by the other team is vitally important, and it's yet another matchup that's too close to call. The Spurs have Bruce Bowen who can get in front of Paul, use his speed, hands, body, and incredible flopping ability to stop Paul, and the Hornets have Tyson Chandler, who has been ferocious in attacking Parker on drives. These teams go the way of their point guards, and neither one can afford a poor game tonight.

5. Speed Versus Efficiency: The Spurs have displayed their versatility once again in this series. After failing in an attempt to play "slug-it-out" ball with the Hornets, the Spurs turned to their speed with Parker and Ginobili. The Hornets transition defense is good enough to slow it down by a margin, but the Spurs are still using less of the shot clock and attempting to get ahead of the Hornets' assignments. When it's worked, it's worked well. When it hasn't, it's just run them out of gas. Conversely, the Hornets are taking their sweet time. They had one of the lowest Pace rates in the league last year (along with the Spurs), and one of the highest efficiency marks. It's a difficult balance to maintain, but it's an effective strategy if you pull it off. Have very few possessions, and make each one count as much as you can. The risk involved is that a shooting slump is much more devastating to the Hornets than the Spurs, since the Spurs will just try and create more shots. Of course to do that, you have to ...

6. Crash The Glass: Offensive rebounding in this series is huge. If you give the Hornets another possession, it allows them to bludgeon you again with Paul and West. If the Spurs grab one, they have such size it usually means a put back. Both teams need to rebound effectively to win, and that means staying out of foul trouble. Tyson Chandler especially has to hope the refs don't get whistle happy early. Chandler can be a huge impact player, knocking the ball back out to the perimeter to create another instant possession. He can also create a huge mismatch if he gets in foul trouble, because it's unlikely Melvin Ely is going to set the world on fire. If Fabricio Oberto gets in trouble, the Spurs have Kurt Thomas, but Thomas has struggled in long stretches because, well, he's older than dirt. Whistles will determine the rebounding, which may determine the outcome.

7. The Finish Line: Enjoy this one. This has been the best series in the playoffs by far, and may be the best for the rest of the way as well. Two brilliant point guards, two All-Star power forwards, veteran shooters, rookie Julian Wright, journeyman Ime Duoka, the best coach in the NBA versus the NBA Coach of the Year, drama, the city of New Orleans as a backdrop, and Peja heads on a stick. It's Game 7, there's no next game for one team. Win or go home. This is why we watch.

7 Things to Keep an Eye on in Game 7: San Antonio Spurs at New Orleans Hornets originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Mon, 19 May 2008 10:45:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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5 Things to Keep an Eye on: Hornets at Spurs, Game 6

Matt Moore — Thu, 15 May 2008 12:50:00 EST

Filed under: Hornets, Spurs, Western, NBA Playoffs, New Orleans

In another of our continuing series, five things to keep an eye out for tonight in the Hornets-Spurs Western Conference Semifinals Game 6 this evening.

1. Backs To The Wall: Well, here we are, San Antonio. The Spurs are not very used to having their backs against the wall, they usually are the ones doing the shoving. But tonight at home will either be the last stand of one of the most quietly dominant dynasties in NBA history or the night where the old gunslingers draw the line in the sand. With a raucous (and possibly, maybe sell-out) crowd behind them, the odds are in the favor of the boys in black and silver. However, against a Hornets team that's going to be feeling the momentum and smelling blood, they can't let up. They need to make some of the same adjustments they made in Games 3 and 4, and some new ones to prevent the Game 5 massacre. Like, oh, I don't know, keeping David West from single handedly annihilating you.

2. Feet On The Floor, Head In The Clouds: The health of Tyson Chandler and David West will be of great concern tomorrow night. Chandler's foot was so bad that afterwards he said he probably wouldn't walk on it that night but said he would be "fine." He then reiterated that sentiment on his blog, which was quite lengthy for a guy that just played a bunch of minutes in a playoff game against Tim Duncan, I might add. Meanwhile West was in obvious physical pain and still managed to destroy the Spurs in what can only be described as a symphony of catastrophic moves that had to make Spurs fans wonder if he was Satan himself. Still, injuries are injuries and teams that are beat up usually don't do so well on the road. We'll see if the devil gets paid his due tonight or if Manu Ginobili and Bruce Bowen can fire up the fiddle again.

3. Assassin Extraordinaire: David West was absolutely phenomenal in Game 5. He managed to play through a bad back, which is one thing. But to slaughter one of the best defensive teams in a pivotal game using the jumper, post moves, drives, floaters and dunks landed him in the "top performances in the 08 playoffs" discussion. The Spurs shut him down completely in Games 3 and 4 in San Antonio, and they need a repeat of that performance in order to put the clamps on the New Orleans offense tonight. In Games 3 and 4, they used a combination of Fabricio Oberto, Tim Duncan, and doubles from Bowen and Michael Finley. In Game 5, they could have tried to run over him with a truck and he still would have hit the floater. The issue that Spurs fans are loathe to admit is that Duncan can guard West, but not without getting into foul trouble. Conversely, while Oberto just angered West in 3 and 4, in Game 5, he fed off that energy and just battled back in Game 5. The best option it would seem is to give West the lane and tease him into driving, and then commit the weakside defender to harass him when he goes up for a floater or hook. Failing that, they may want to put Robert Horry in and have him stand near the scorers' desk. You know, for no reason at all.

4. Startling Analysis: Whoever Shoots Better Will Win!: I don't buy into shooting streaks. Everything returns to the average over time. However, the playoffs present an interesting problem because of the small sample size. And with two teams as close as these, it's going to come down to shooting. The Hornets shot 53% from three point range in Game 5, the Spurs only 39%. Bruce Bowen was 2 of 4as he continues his skyrocketing escape from statistical expectations, but Parker, Ginobili, Finley, and Barry combined for 4 of 16 from the arc. Each team shoots better at home, though, of course, so I would expect a lot of Finley big shots and Bowen to get a lot more shots tonight. This team is using their three point shooting as life support in certain situations, which I don't think is a solid plan. Then again, I haven't won 4 championships in the last 8 seasons. So I would imagine they have quite a bit of confidence in their shooters.

5. Too Much Wisdom: The Spurs aren't going to panic. Not for a second, not for a heartbeat, not for a half a moment. They're at home, they've proven they can not just defeat, but manhandle this team at home. They have Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and Manu Ginobili. They have Robert Horry, they have Bruce Bowen, they have Greg Popovich. So I would expect a focused, determined Spurs team tonight. On the other side, I doubt the Hornets will come in with as much lofty headed swagger as last time. They've seen how dangerous the Spurs are at home, and they'll be ready to go full speed to go for the kill. This one might end up being one for the ages. Or it could be a Spurs blowout. They are at home after all, and it would appear that no other analysis is needed in these playoffs.

5 Things to Keep an Eye on: Hornets at Spurs, Game 6 originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Thu, 15 May 2008 12:50:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Doing Lines: David West Carries Hornets

Matt Watson — Wed, 14 May 2008 05:00:00 EST

Filed under: Hornets, Spurs, Western, NBA Last Night, New Orleans

Every now and again there are some stupendous, silly, stupid, or downright outlandish individual lines from around the L. Doing Lines lets you know which one tops the list.

Just when people started to wonder if their run was over, the Hornets stomped all over the Spurs to the tune of 101-79 on Tuesday night. Chris Paul (22 points, 14 assists) was his usually stellar self, but David West was simply awesome, scoring 38 (16-25 FG) with 14 boards, five blocks, five assists and a pair of steals.

West is often overshadowed by CP3's almost-nightly brilliance, but the Hornets wouldn't be where they are -- one win away from the franchise's first conference finals appearance -- without their other All-Star.

Also Receiving Votes:
Antonio McDyess' sdouble-double (17 points, 11 boards) may not look all that spectacular on paper, but when you consider the work he did down the stretch coming down with seemingly every loose ball in a close game, it's not hard to see why Rip Hamilton (31 points, 16-16 FT) called him the MVP of the game. Making it all the more impressive was the fact that McDyess played the game with a heavy heart, learning just hours before tip-off that his grandmother, who helped raise him, passed away Tuesday afternoon.

Dwight Howard: Rebounds are about effort, and effort never slumps, which is why Howard finished Tuesday's game with 17 boards. That said, his shot abandoned him in the most crucial game of the year: he shot just 6-15 from the free-throw line. Howard now has all summer to think about how he missed nine freebies in an elimination game which the Magic lost by five.

Tim Duncan: Sure, he was held to just 10 points, but 23 rebounds? That's just silly.

Doing Lines: David West Carries Hornets originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Wed, 14 May 2008 05:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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5 Things to Keep an Eye on: Spurs at Hornets, Game 5

Matt Moore — Tue, 13 May 2008 19:00:00 EST

Filed under: Hornets, Spurs, Western, NBA Playoffs, New Orleans

In another of our continuing series, five things to keep an eye out for tonight in the Spurs-Hornets Western Conference Semifinals Game 5 this evening.

1. Expect The Unexpected: I've worked this game around in my head for the last day, and I still can't get an answer out of it. It's like trying to get a clear choice out of a busted Magic Eight Ball. I can't even get a "Reply Hazy, Try Again." Nothing would surprise me tonight. A Spurs blowout? Of course! They're the champs and they've figured out the Hornets. A Hornets blowout? Well, you saw the first two games, didn't you? A Hornets breakaway in the last five minutes? That's what happens when you're old and slow. A Hornets meltdown in the last five minutes? That's what happens when you're young and inexperienced! A Spurs buzzer-beater? There's a reason Robert Horry, Michael Finley, and Brent Barry play for the Spurs. Armageddon? Why not? There's really no way to predict what will come out tonight in New Orleans.

2. Duncan Go Nuts: Maybe it was just the flu. Maybe the only thing holding Tim Duncan back in Games 1 and 2 were the chills and fever he reportedly had, and it had nothing to do with the stifling and effective double teams by the Hornets. The most likely answer is that it was a little bit of both. Either way, the Spurs have figured a way around that trick. By pulling Manu Ginobili to Duncan's post side and using him as the entry passer, they've presented the Hornets with their two worst matchups at once. Bring the help defender, and Ginobili's either got a three or the step on a drive if the help tries to close out. Don't bring the help defender ... well, let's just say you want to bring the help defender. The Hornets may have to try going to zone tonight and bringing Bonzi Wells over from the weak side block to provide pressure. Most importantly, if Tyson Chandler is guarding Duncan, he cannot do what he did in the last game and give Tim Duncan the baseline. That's just suicide. And it's not painless.

3. West Is South: David West has been punked. Fabricio Oberto has gotten under his skin, and when West has kept his cool long enough to use his considerable talent advantage to attack Oberto, Tim Duncan has been waiting. The Spurs have decided from the very get go to shut down West's long range game and work in. They haven't allowed him his 17 footers where he's very sure of, and now when he does get them, he doubts himself. In the first two games he torched the Spurs by going to the rim time and time again. But they've slowly cut off more and more off of his offense to the point where he's a shell of the All-Star he was through Game 2 of this season. If the Hornets are going to regain momentum headed back to San Antonio and avoid the death grip, West is going to have to flex his muscles, keep his head, and knock down some shots. They can survive two games without West contributing major points. They can't survive three.

4. Winning The War By Drawing The Battle: The Spurs aren't averaging that many fewer turnovers since they returned from New Orleans. They're just causing more. The turnover differential in the first two games for the Spurs was +13. The two games in San Antonio? 0. All even. They're pretty much accepting that Chris Paul and the Hornets' defense are going to create turnovers. But instead of just accepting them as fact, they're fighting fire with fire. The Hornets have to hang on to the ball and make San Antonio pay for their uncharacteristic carelessness to combat the Spurs surge.

5. Close Out, Close Out, Close Out: Both teams' coaches will have been hammering this all day long. If you stop the long ball in rotation on either club, they're without their mojo. The Hornets need Morris Peterson and Peja Stojakovic draining corners on the Chris Paul kick out, and the Spurs need Michael Finley and Bruce Bowen to consider their nearly ridiculous shooting spree to provide the boost against New Orleans' effective interior defense on the drives of Tony Parker. As simple as it sounds, whoever can create and hit shots tonight will probably be the victor, as close as these two teams are.

5 Things to Keep an Eye on: Spurs at Hornets, Game 5 originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Tue, 13 May 2008 19:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Hornets-Spurs Game 4 Live Blog

Matt Moore — Sun, 11 May 2008 19:48:00 EST

Filed under: Hornets, Spurs, Western, NBA Playoffs, New Orleans

Home court matters. That much is evident in this conference semifinal round, and every team that did not sprint for the higher seed has failed. Tonight we see how much the difference makes in what is unarguably the best series so far in the playoffs. It's go time, and we've got you covered at 8PM EST. Sing-a-long, won't you?

Hornets-Spurs Game 4 Live Blog originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Sun, 11 May 2008 19:48:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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5 Things to Keep an Eye on: Hornets at Spurs, Game 4

Matt Moore — Sun, 11 May 2008 19:00:00 EST

Filed under: Hornets, Spurs, Western, NBA Playoffs, New Orleans

In another of our continuing series, five things to keep an eye out for tonight in the Hornets-Spurs Western Conference Semifinals Game 4 this afternoon.

1. Manu Happy Returns: Manu Ginobili returned to playoff form in Game 4, lighting up the Hornets for 31 points and 6 assists in Game 3. What's better, for the Spurs, is that he finally seemed to attack the rim after being held to the perimeter in New Orleans. Instead of his customary drive from the key, he instead used the wing more, driving in for albeit contested layups, and got back on defense instead of crying for the foul. Well, less so, anyway. He was downright brilliant offensively, though, nailing 3 three pointers and helping to open previously clogged lanes. He needs to repeat that performance tomorrow night against the Hornets for San Antonio to tie this thing up.

2. The Ineffective One Man Show: Chris Paul was a lot of things in Game 3. The words "amazing," "irradiant," and "transcendent" were just a few I read and heard about his performance. One word that did not describe Paul after that game, though, was "winner." The Spurs took a defending-Kobe-Bryant-like approach to Paul, choosing to let the All-Star point guard have his way, as long as his teammates were held in check. And for one game at least, the strategy proved effective. The issue will become whether they can keep the support players for New Orleans in check after a terrible Game 3 in which the Hornets were still within range until late in the fourth quarter. The Spurs also have to make sure Paul doesn't go too far. You can give the dog some slack to run around as long as he doesn't start choking you with it.

3. Bench Colder: There's been a lot of talk about how the Hornets bench failed in Game 3. Of course, they still outscored San Antonio's 18-16. But the Hornets need to to get an overall contribution that's solid in order to win. Somewhere between last year's dominating run by the Spurs featuring all sorts of pivotal players and this year, the Spurs became a three man squad. They are essentially the big three, with a few key shots from Finley and (out of nowhere) Bowen. The Hornets have seemed like the better team for large parts in this series, in large part to the overall contributions from their team. If the Hornets want to head back to New Orleans with a 3-1 lead, they need to get Jannero Pargo and Julian Wright jumpstarted.

4. Homecourt Advantage Ability To Flop: Hornets fans: "Manu and Parker flop on every play!" Spurs fans: "Chris Paul flops on every play!" The rest of us: "Wah-wah wah, wah-wah, wah, wah." This series has easily been the best of the playoffs, but it would be even better if both teams quit flying through the air with the greatest of ease. Just play, fellas. But since that's too much to ask in the modern NBA without action from the league office (you hear me, Mr. Stern?), we should probably address the difference. The Hornets have gotten away with a lot more if you decide that every flop deserves a call, but the tide definitely turned in the second half of Game 4. The best case scenario would be for the refs to keep their whistles in their pockets, but it's not likely to happen. Expect a lot of touch calls on the Hornets tonight.

5. Underrated Superstar: Tony Parker had more assists than Chris Paul in Game 3. He also had 31 points. That's kind of a lot. He's not being given credit because he's still not as much of a vital propulsion force as Paul is for the Hornets. I know Spurs fans don't like that, but when they ask why he's not being lavished over, it's not because Parker plays for the Spurs, it's because he's not as influential. The system benefits players in San Antonio, as opposed to the players benefiting the system in New Orleans. However, Parker has been sensational and he'll probably continue his underrated brilliance tonight.

5 Things to Keep an Eye on: Hornets at Spurs, Game 4 originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Sun, 11 May 2008 19:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Chris Paul Honors 8-Year-Old Cancer Victim

Matt Watson — Fri, 09 May 2008 05:10:00 EST

Filed under: Hornets, Western, NBA Playoffs, New Orleans, The Word

Chris Paul wrote the name "Brian" on his shoes last night, a small gesture to honor the memory of an eight-year-old fan who died from a brain tumor earlier this week before he had a chance to see Paul play. The Make-A-Wish Foundation had arranged for Brian to see his favorite player take on the Spurs on Monday, but Brian was hospitalized with a high fever the day of the game and died later that evening.

As he requested, Brian will be buried wearing his Paul jersey. Hornets owner George Shinn, who said he cried when he heard the story, contacted the family and offered to help pay for funeral expenses, but the family respectfully declined. Even though it's a small gesture, Paul wanted to honor Brian in Thursday's game. From USA TODAY:

According to a New Orleans Times-Picayune story, "Brian told his family that he knew he was going to heaven and that he wanted to meet Jesus wearing his Chris Paul jersey." [...]

"I was speechless," Paul said before Game 3 Thursday night. "Even now, it's something that words can't describe. This is probably one of the most humbling experiences of my life.

The Hornets may have lost the game, but it wasn't for lack of an inspired performance by Paul, who finished with a game-high 35 points and nine assists. Information for supporting the Make-A-WIsh Foundation can be found here.

Chris Paul Honors 8-Year-Old Cancer Victim originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Fri, 09 May 2008 05:10:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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5 Things to Keep an Eye on: Hornets at Spurs, Game 3

Matt Moore — Thu, 08 May 2008 20:55:00 EST

Filed under: Hornets, Spurs, Western, NBA Playoffs, New Orleans

In another of our continuing series, five things to keep an eye out for tonight in the Hornets-Spurs Western Conference Semifinals Game 3 this evening.

1. Choose To Abuse: Bruce Bowen tried to guard Chris Paul. He did. But the problem is, the guy is, well, Chris Paul. The common thought today is that he'll be switching to Peja Stojakovic, who torched the Spurs in Game 2. After saying "As long as Chris Paul doesn't go off, we're good" and then "As long as David West doesn't go off, we're money," apparently the thought is "As long as Peja Stojakovic doesn't go off, we've got this thing." The Spurs seem kind of surprised that the Hornets have more weapons than they originally thought. We'll see if the switch of Bowen allows the Spurs to maintain the same quality double they brought on West last week, and if they can keep their fingers in all the holes.

2. Gotta Rain Sometime: The Spurs talked a lot after Game 2 about the fact that they're getting the shots they want, they're just not going in. Now, I wouldn't necessarily agree with that, unless the Spurs have planned to shoot 10 more threes per game than they did in the regular season. Yeah, you hear right. 10. What's worse is that they haven't fallen since the first half of Game 1. The Spurs are counting on those shots falling in the warm and comfy confines of the AT&T Center, and that's pretty likely. But the Spurs might be better off thinking about ...

3. The Will To Attack: The Hornets have been the more aggressive team throughout the first two games of this series. Even with their three point shooting in Game 2, they're getting those shots because of the interior collapse the Spurs are having to implement. Meanwhile, Chris Paul is in constant attack position, never hesitating. If the Spurs are going to retake the momentum at home, tonight, they have to get Paul back on his feet a little bit. Or at least force the ball out of his hands, something two Texas teams have failed to do so far.

4. About That "6th Man" Thing: Manu Ginobili isn't a bench player. He plays the majority of the minutes, he's on the billboards, etc. He has the game persona of a starter that doesn't play for 4 or 5 minutes. Tonight, he's actually a starter as Greg Popovich has moved him into the starting lineup and shifted Michael Finley to the bench. It's an interesting tactic that could provide the Spurs the immediate burst they need to come out and get this under control quickly, something they probably want to focus on. Of course, they can start as well as they want, but what they really need to do is...

5. Control The Third: The Spurs have been outscored by 30 points in the third quarters of this series, 65=35. That's kind of a lot. Especially for a quarter that is traditionally thought to be the most important by many coaches. Phil Jackson teams are almost always dominant in the third. The Spurs have led at the half of both games, so they're not completely out of this game. But something happens in the locker room and they come out stunned. If the Spurs can get out to a fast start to both halves, they can probably catch a Hornets team that may be coasting a bit up 2-0 and have a chance to get back into this thing proper in Game 4.

5 Things to Keep an Eye on: Hornets at Spurs, Game 3 originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Thu, 08 May 2008 20:55:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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5 Things to Keep an Eye on: Spurs at Hornets, Game 2

Matt Moore — Mon, 05 May 2008 16:06:00 EST

Filed under: Hornets, Spurs, Western, NBA Playoffs, New Orleans

In another of our continuing series, five things to keep an eye out for tonight in the Spurs-Hornets Western Conference Semifinals Game 2 this evening.

1. Western Aggression: I've been saying it all season. David West is the most offensively versatile power forward in the league this season. There's not a lot this guy can't do. The idea in Game 1 was to try and contain West with Oberto, Horry, Kurt Thomas (snicker). Now, there's a prevailing sense that Tim Duncan manning up on him is the best option. Here's the problem. If you put Duncan on him, you're essentially saying "KT/Oberto/Horry, you have to guard the lane against Chris Paul. Not a good idea. Not only that but the thought is that Duncan can contest some of West's 17-18 footers. But Duncan can't really get that far that fast anymore. He's still an elite defender, don't get me wrong. But he's going to have to come way out on West to contest those. Which means if West gets by him, the other big man for the Spurs has to leave Chandler. That's not good. I think at some point,the Spurs need to adjust accept West is going to have an advantage on this series and focus on the backcourt.

2. Shootout, Manu a Manu?: Manu Ginobili averaged 5.3 three point attempts this season. In Game 1, he took 9. That was a central part of the Spurs' approach, to try and attack the New Orleans defense at the perimeter with their key shooters. Which was all well and good in the first half when they were on fire. But when they cooled? That was when the Hornets kept attacking the basket. I would doubt that Greg Popovich tries to rely on the perimeter shooting as much in this game. Especially from ...

3. Bruce Bowen Is Having Identity Problems: Because apparently he thinks he's the same guy he was four years ago. Bowen scored 17 points in the first half of Game 1, including 5 three pointers. Yeah, not so much after that. The Hornets didn't overreact to Popovich putting the scoring on Bowen and said "Fine. Shoot it again. If you beat us, you beat us." Bruce Bowen did not beat them. After years of being known as a defensive wizard, Bowen is a mere shell of himself, hanging on by repeatedly taking cheap-shots at those he defends, and trying to resurrect his shot. Every time he tries to drive for a runner, I can hear the collective groan of Spurs Nation. Bowen needs to focus on trying to rip Paul's arm out of his socket and facilitating the extra pass and quit trying to be the hero.

4. More Than You Can Chew: I think Greg Popovich and the Spurs looked at Tyson Chandler and went "okay, we can stop this. No big deal." Unfortunately, Tyson Chandler's not looking to light up the scoreboard on you. What he is looking to do is play great defense on Tim Duncan, get his points when they come, and grab 15 rebounds including 6 offensive, which is exactly what he did in Game 1. With the emphasis likely to shift to West in an effort to keep him from gouging them, Chandler may find himself with more of those alley-oops he's made a lifestyle this season. And oh, yeah, if Duncan is guarding West, then who's trying to battle Chandler on the offensive boards? Oh. That may not work out well. The Spurs need to get fouls on Chandler, in a hurry.

5. So Who's "Winning" The Point Guard Battle?: Tony Parker scored more points, and had more rebounds. That's about where that battle ended for Tony Parker. Paul was quiet for most of the game, but inside five minutes in the fourth, came out with a flurry of offense and defense, ending with 17 points, 13 assists, and 4 steals. The question becomes who's going to be the distributor for the Spurs if Parker has his hands full with Paul? I would bet Manu Ginobili takes over a lot more of the drive and kick duties tonight to try and get some open looks for the Spurs, who had 10 fewer assists than the Hornets in Game 1. Have I mentioned this series is awesome?

5 Things to Keep an Eye on: Spurs at Hornets, Game 2 originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Mon, 05 May 2008 16:06:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Rotation: Chris Paul Has No Ceiling

Tom Ziller — Mon, 05 May 2008 07:00:00 EST

Filed under: Hornets, New Orleans, The Word

The Rotation is a weekly study on the NBA by one of our All-Star voices. In rotation this week is Tom Ziller.

Chris Paul, basketball messiah of New Orleans, has the rapt attention of the world right now ... and he's still being underrated. "He can be the best little guy ever." "He can be the best scoring point guard ever." No, no, no.

He can be the best ever.

There's no ceiling for Chris Paul, no limit on his eventual peak. Don't compare him to Deron Williams and Steve Nash and Isiah Thomas. If he keeps this up, we'll be weighing his abilities against LeBron and MJ.

Paul lost the MVP award to Kobe Bryant this season. It'd be a crime if the MVP award had any relevance to reality. The arguments are stilted, the rationale incredibly subjective. How else do you explain Nash hoisting two before Kobe's wrapped his hands around his first? As such, let's ignore that debate for now. I think Paul deserved it, other folks picked Kobe. I'm comfortable being in the minority on this.

I'm not, however, comfortable with the continued lack of perspective on Paul's otherworldly talents. Before the season, a die-hard Hornets fan I very much like/respect argued Chris-vs-Deron was a toss-up. A toss-up! Meanwhile, based on PER (the best linear-weights measure we've got) Paul had the best season by a guard not named Michael Jordan in the history of the NBA. Better than Kobe's best season, better than Magic's best season. Nash, Isiah ... not even in the same region. On defense, Ryan Schawn of Hornets247.com documented Paul's impact well, refuting claims that the PG's size makes him an inferior defender.

This is the measurable stuff. On the intangible front, the guy is a fantastic teammate and an incomparable locker room leader. (Bill Simmons has a great anecdote about Paul's interactions with his team near the end of his MVP column.) Paul's never been in trouble, he's a hard worker, he's fearless, he's said to be extremely coachable. Still looking for that dent which would explain why he'll never be more than a good point guard ...

Oh, there it is. I found it. It's his personality. He isn't placed on the same pedestal as Kobe or LeBron because he's not on every NBA on ABC commercial, he doesn't pitch Nikes, he doesn't dunk hard or score 30 a night. Paul's strength is his incomparable efficiency, and efficiency just doesn't sell.

MIchael Jordan was efficient -- deathly efficient. MJ shot remarkably high percentages for a two-guard, and once he turned 26 had cut his turnovers down to near the bare minimum for such a high-usage player. Also, MJ had Nike's machine getting him on TV year-round, was an outrageous scorer with outrageously magnificent games, dunked like a champion, and carried himself with more swag than Reagan. MJ is considered the Greatest of All Time because he was an enormously successful player and because he had the off-court persona to match.

LeBron is already an enormously successful player and has MJ's machine. Paul's a year younger, and just completed a season almost statistically even with LeBron while leading the fourth best team in the league. People do not hesitate to mention LeBron in the same breath as MJ -- hell, people compare Kobe to MJ, and even Kobe's individual peak doesn't approach LeBron's output of late. Yet Chris Paul can't break out of the imposed basement of 6-footers? Even in an age where we rush to decree this or that the Best. . Ever?

Paul's not better than LeBron yet, and he's not up to MJ's standard yet. But he belongs in that conversation a lot sooner than he does in debates regarding guys like Deron and Isiah and Nash. Paul's got to do it for another half-decade or so, and there's room for improvement (he's 22, for goodness sake).

But we could be watching a potential G.O.A.T. grow up before our eyes. Show some respect.

Mapping the NBA gives Excel spreadsheets some balls.

Using John Hollinger's PER, here are the top 20 NBA seasons for all guards. The highest PERs will be found on the right (yes, MJ has the top seven seasons by a guard). The y axis represents age. The youngsters (of which Chris Paul in 2008 is the youngest) are at the top; the elder statesmen (MJ at 33, MJ at 32, Magic at 30) sit near the bottom.

Two things to notice here. First: No guard's had a top-20 season earlier than the age of 23 ... except Chris Paul, who is 22 until Tuesday. Second: Look at MJ's progression. He saw a massive jump between his age 23 and age 24 seasons, then a slight regression for age 25, then a climb back up to his zenith at age 27. Kobe peaked at 27. Magic peaked at 27. Sense a pattern? Chris Paul is five years away from turning 27.

If any guard's going to approach The MJ Zone in the next decade, the numbers say it's Chris Paul.

The Rotation: Chris Paul Has No Ceiling originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Mon, 05 May 2008 07:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Return of Bonzi

Tom Ziller — Sun, 04 May 2008 09:20:00 EST

Filed under: Kings, Hornets, Spurs, NBA Playoffs, New Orleans

The last time we (as a population) saw Bonzi Wells, it was 2006. The Kings snuck into the playoffs on the backs of Ron Artest, Bonzi and upstart 23-year-old Kevin Martin. As the #8 seed, they took a trip to the home of the reigning NBA champs, San Antonio. No one gave Sacramento a chance -- hell, Sacramento really had no chance.

But then something happened. Bonzi happened. In Game 2, with the Kings down 1-0, Wells went ballistic, earning himself 28 points and 12 rebounds (from the two-guard spot) as the Kings lost a heartbreaker on a lucky Brent Barry bounce. In Game 3 in Sactown, Bonzi went for 19 and 14 ... including 10 offensive rebounds, just annoying Duncan and Nesterovic to no end. Kings win (on the most magical shot you ever did see). In Game 4, he offers 25 and 17! Kings win. In Game 5 -- the real crux of the series, the game in which San Antonio can either retake control or the Kings can topple the despot -- Bonzi again goes ballistic, dropping 38 points with 12 rebounds. But the Spurs win, the delusions disappear, and Bonzi puts up a mild 17/11 in the deciding Game 6 blowout. That would be an average of 23 points and 12 rebounds, by a two-guard, against the Spurs, over six games.

Bonzi then turns down a $38 million contract in order to take a $4 million flyer from Houston, sends Jeff Van Gundy a 'Dear John' text message from a Seattle hotel room, and sets himself on fire.

The Phoenix is back, though! Bonzi's no longer a 40-minute type fellow; he received a ration of 18 minutes from Byron Scott last night (against the Spurs). He made the most of them, scoring 10 points on 5-of-9 shooting and pulling in more rebounds (4) than Tim Duncan took in (3) over 37 minutes. Is it something about the Spurs? Is it something about the playoffs? Is it something about Peja-on-a-Stick? I don't know, and I don't care. Bonzi's back, baby, and I couldn't be happier.

The Return of Bonzi originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Sun, 04 May 2008 09:20:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Chris Paul 'Flops' the Script on Spurs

Tom Ziller — Sun, 04 May 2008 08:21:00 EST

Filed under: Hornets, Spurs, NBA Playoffs, NBA Videos, NBA Last Night, New Orleans

Chris Paul was feeling so salty Saturday night in NOLA he even got in this great jab at The San Antonio Spurs Modus Operandi (via RealClearSports). The one minute, seven second mark is the best view.

Don't think he was trying to get Bruce Bowen, a practiced defendant, T'd up. Clearly, Paul wanted to offer an indictment of the wooly ways of Bowen, Manu Ginobili, and Fabricio Oberto. How better than parody? Performance art show daps for Paul.

Chris Paul 'Flops' the Script on Spurs originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Sun, 04 May 2008 08:21:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Craig Sager Interviews Hugo the Hornet

Will Brinson — Sun, 04 May 2008 01:30:00 EST

Filed under: Hornets, Spurs, Western, NBA Fans, NBA Media Watch, NBA Videos, New Orleans

Yes, the actual interview is just as amazing as the title would indicate. And maybe it's just me feeling a little wonked out from eight consecutive quarters of live blogging, but every time I watch this, I still expect either Craiggers to just rip his mask off (as Kenny suggests), or for Sager to drop his real name followed by Hugo strangling Mr. Dresscode to death with his cartoony mascot hands. At least I can dream.

It's probably worth noting that somehow, Hugo is better dressed than Craig. Not shocking, just worth noting.

Craig Sager Interviews Hugo the Hornet originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Sun, 04 May 2008 01:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Floor Is on Fire in NOLA

Will Brinson — Sat, 03 May 2008 23:45:00 EST

Filed under: Hornets, Spurs, Western, NBA Fans, NBA Injuries, NBA Playoffs, NBA Rumors, New Orleans

Bruce Bowen was hot during the first half of the Hornets -- Spurs Round 2 opener, but the floor was hotter. After Hugo the Hornet jumped through the ... Ring of Fire. The only problem was the the dreaded Ring did not ever extinguish itself, forcing New Orleans arena staff onto the floor with fire extinguishers, as the game was delayed 19 minutes.

There's really no excuse for this whatsoever. Why were they doing this insane stunt -- which they admittedly only do once a year -- in between the first and second quarters? Your guess is as good as mine.

The Floor Is on Fire in NOLA originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Sat, 03 May 2008 23:45:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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5 Things to Keep An Eye on: Spurs at Hornets, Game 1

Matt Moore — Sat, 03 May 2008 17:00:00 EST

Filed under: Hornets, Spurs, Western, NBA Playoffs, New Orleans

In another of our continuing series, five things to keep an eye out for tonight in the Spurs-Hornets game tonight.

1. Matchup Madness: It honestly doesn't get much better than this for NBA matchup analysts. Tony Parker versus Chris Paul, a point guard cage match where Parker is suddenly the more experienced, larger point guard. Tim Duncan versus David West, where West's offensive versatility may enable him to be the only power forward in the league to hold Duncan to a draw. Throw in Tyson Chandler versus the Spurs' ability to attack the basket, the Hornets' ability to take away the Spurs' rebounding advantage, and you have a tactician's dream. All of that pales in comparison, though, to ...

2. Who Wants It More?: Yes, the clichéd question that abounds yearly in the NBA playoffs. Generally speaking, I don't subscribe much to this question. Phoenix didn't lose to San Antonio because the Spurs wanted it more. The Spurs won because San Antonio was able to take Manu Ginobili left to the hole whenever he wanted, and controlled the boards. Likewise, desire had nothing to do with Dallas' meltdown.

David West's range sliced them whenever they were able to stop Chris Paul on a possession, which wasn't very often to begin with. But attitude is going to carry a lot in this series, between two teams at their peak performance going in. The Spurs hold the same attitude they've had for three years. We're better than you. And nothing you say or do, or feel, will change that. We simply exist at a slightly higher, more consistent level than you. They never waver. The Hornets are bit more ... wicked. Beneath the feel good New Orleans resurrection story is something much darker. This team has a killer instinct I've seen develop this season, higher than any other team in the league. The Celtics can yell and scream all they want, and the Pistons can execute with flawless precision, and the Lakers can smile with giddiness over their return. This Hornets squad has a focus beneath that fuzzy veneer. Their goal has been consistency, and executing above that consistent level. And they thrive on disrespect. This series comes down to the Spurs' refusal to let anyone dictate their destiny but themselves, and the Hornets' focus on killing everything in their path. This is going to be good. Or, it can be like the rest of the playoffs, make no sense, and be a sweep. Either way, fascinating.

3. Battle Of The Questionable Benches: Jannero Pargo? Julian Wright? Hilton Armstrong? Wait... Jannero Pargo?! That's right. Out of nowhere, the Hornets' bench has erupted with reliable contributors. When you throw in Bonzi Wells into that mix, the Hornets who at one point were doomed because of this same backup squad, all of a sudden look like they can not only survive stretches with the starters resting, but surge despite of it. Conversely, the Spurs used to be known for how amazingly deep they were with veterans that could perform. And don't get me wrong, Michael Finley, Robert Horry, and Brent Barry are still able to come up with 1 to 2 huge plays in a game that can end up being the difference, especially against a top-heavy team like Phoenix. But it's become apparent that with every minute they play, a little more comes out of their legs. This is the series where they need to exert themselves and put in serious minutes. If Parker and Manu can get a rest offensively, they can overcome Paul's brilliance and Peja's hot/cold shooting. The X-Factor in this series is Julian Wright versus Ime Udoka. Whoever is able to be more of a burst off the bench could decide this thing. Udoka had a terrible first round series, while Wright had a tremendous one. That's going to be a key.

4. Can ANYONE Make Him Go Right? : I have always marveled at Manu Ginobili and his ability to get to the basket. It was simply amazing. And what was crazier is it almost seemed like he did the same move every time. Then Charles Barkley asked a question at halftime of another Spurs blowout. "Why doesn't anyone make Ginobili go right? Anyone else notice that?" Kenny Smith responded "I noticed that. He only goes left." And when you start to look at that? The results are astounding. The problem is that the Spurs are so efficient with the pick and roll at the top of the key and Ginobili's specific athletic abilities feed so well to it (combined with a well-timed, and constant stream of flops), it's nearly impossible to effectively defend. If the Hornets are going to contain Ginobili, someone's going to have to route his drive and feed him to Tyson Chandler. Chandler has to rotate effectively, while not letting too much space spread between him and his man (Duncan/Oberto). Oh, and you can't bring the perimeter double, because that means Finley/Horry/Barry are open in the corner. Have fun with that.

5. Which Peja Shows Up?: There is no in-between for Peja Stojakovic. He's either a tremendous clutch shooter that can create his own shot and burn the lights out, along with the entire building around them, or he's a defensive liability that harmlessly tosses the ball at the basket praying for it to go in. In a series that is so close, it's likely going to come down to the ability of perimeter shooters to knock down shots on the drive and kick, Peja is the tilting point for the Hornets. The bench is going to be hot and cold at times, but if Peja is hot right in the beginning of the game, able to give the Hornets a lead, the Hive can feel a lot more comfortable about heading into San Antonio, because they might have a 2-0 lead.

5 Things to Keep An Eye on: Spurs at Hornets, Game 1 originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Sat, 03 May 2008 17:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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