--James Posey was brought in as a free agent to play shooting guard and small forward, but early on, he'll play strictly small forward. Coach Byron Scott doesn't want him trying to learn two positions simultaneously. So when Posey and starting small forward Peja Stojakovic are on the floor together, Stojakovic will play shooting guard, which he did frequently two seasons ago.
--Morris Peterson reported to training camp 12 pounds lighter than last season and worked overtime on his jumpshot. Scott said he wanted Peterson to get up and down the court faster, and Peterson said he didn't want to be considered the "weak link" in the starting lineup. Last season his 8 points-points-per-game average was lowest among the starters. MAIN REASON HORNETS CAN WIN: Paul has become one of the elite players in the league with his ability to score and get his teammates easy shots. The variety of scoring options makes it easy for the Hornets to withstand off nights by a scorer or two. West's consistency contributes to a 1-2 punch that few teams can match.
MAIN REASON HORNETS CAN LOSE: The inconsistency of the bench was a weakness last season, and it's unclear how well Devin Brown and Mike James will run the offense when Paul rests. If the light doesn't go on for Hilton Armstrong in his third season, the inside game suffers with him, Melvin Ely, and newcomer Sean Marks backing up Chandler. The defense must be more consistent even though the scoring average (95.6) was good last season.
QUOTE TO NOTE: "At least I can give him some trouble in the bowling alley, but he has no chance on that golf course." -- Coach Byron Scott, on competing with point guard Chris Paul at each one's favorite hobby.
