With just under six minutes to play, Hornets rookie guard Marcus Thornton drove to the basket, scored and was fouled.
His three point play tied the game at 88 with 5:53 to play. The play was indicative of Thornton's style as he fearlessly attacked the basket. Head coach Byron Scott clearly likes Thornton's ability to shoot threes and couple that with drives to the basket. Scott said he understands as a rookie that Thornton will make mistakes defensively.
But, clearly Thornton gives the Hornets something in very short supply since they moved to New Orleans 7 and a half years ago. And, that is a slashing two guard.
Other observations from a 108-96 win over Indiana. Back up point guard Bobby Brown will make a nice contribution. Brown can shoot the spot up three and clearly can break down defenders off the dribble.
Center Hilton Armstrong, while still not a good finisher, is improving in that area. Armstrong played solidly, and with Emeka Okafor likely to play somewhat limited minutes as the season tips off, a solid contribution from Armstrong is needed.
And, Peja, could benefit from fewer minutes coming off the bench. He had his stroke back Saturday night, hitting 6 of 9 three pointers.
Ed Daniels
New Orleans Arena
Saturday 10 17 09