2007-2008 NBA Season Preview: New Orleans Hornets

Despite the catastrophic events of Hurricane Katrina, and the Hornets' temporary move to Oklahoma City to keep pace on the NBA schedule for home games, the Hornets seem to be pretty optimistic. Since the acquisition of their rising star, point guard Chris Paul, the Hornets have gotten this close to making the playoffs, though succumbing to inexperience, fatigue and devastating injuries.

With Chris Paul having broken down after the 2007 NBA All-Star Weekend, power forward David West missing significant time and former All-Star Predrag Stojakovic missing virtually the entire season after a back injury, New Orleans was left shorthanded and looking for answers. Coming back to New Orleans should help the team gain morale, but there are obstacles in the way.

One such obstacle is the entire Western Conference. With Dallas, Phoenix, San Antonio, Houston and Utah all looking to be title contenders for the 2007-08 season, the Hornets will have to be on their guard and at their very best at all times. Another possible dilemma will be whether the young players on the New Orleans roster will be able to contribute far more than previously in the past. Hilton Armstrong was a rookie who showed some progress, but with a year's experience and the pressure to win big in the 2008 season, they will have to develop presence in the paint. Just as well, Marcus Vinicius de Souza, a backup small forward from Brazil has talent but must get over doing his best Boris Diaw impersonation (not looking for shots, passing up opportunities to score). One other cause of concern is the departure of fan favorite Desmond Mason.

Mason, a swingman who played his college ball at Oklahoma State University from 1996-2000, gave the Hornets a much-needed veteran voice and was exemplary for his hustle, talent and work ethic in helping the Hornets push forward toward the playoffs in the previous two seasons. Now signed with the Milwaukee Bucks (again), his absence may prove to complicate depth at the shooting guard and small forward positions.

The best thing about this team, though, is its veteran stable of leadership and ability. Having had surgery performed on his troubled foot, Paul looks to come back with zest; Stojakovic can breathe easier being healthy and provide the team with great perimeter opportunities; backup guards Bobby Jackson and Jannero Pargo will keep the offense surging and quick; and breakout center Tyson Chandler will continue to man the boards and get opportunities to score on the block with West.

Add in the fact that New Orleans is the host of the 2008 NBA All-Star weekend festivities, and the Hornets may have just the right combination of timing, momentum and talent to make the playoffs their playground for a 'Nawlins parade.