G Morris Peterson was unreliable in his first season with the Hornets last year and must do a better job of consistently taking advantage of the looks he gets thanks to Paul. He should be able to average in double-figures with the number of open three-pointers he gets.

F Peja Stojakovic sometimes gets overlooked because of Paul and West, but he remains one of the best long-range shooters in the NBA. He needs to have a second consecutive healthy season after being injury-plagued for a couple of seasons before last year.

F David West is one of the steadiest forwards in the league, but he's looking to add versatility to his offensive game beyond the mid-range jumper. Coach Byron Scott plans to lean more on him as a defender this season.

C Tyson Chandler benefited as much as anyone from Paul's creativity, leading the NBA in lob dunks last season. He worked in the off-season on extending his offensive range and aspires to lead the league in rebounding.

ANALYZING KEY RESERVES:

F James Posey bolsters the bench with his ability to defend big guards and small forwards. His ability to make three-pointers gives Paul another target to look for on the wings when he penetrates.

G Devin Brown doesn't provide the scoring threat that Jannero Pargo did, but he can defend bigger guards better than Pargo did. He's a more conventional point guard than Pargo.

F Julian Wright's long arms and athleticism make him a potentially strong defender. He started to evolve as an outside shooter during the second half of last season.

C Hilton Armstrong has been too timid to earn significant minutes from Scott. He is focused on going to the basket more on offense after having a tendency to fade away in the past. He must play more physically inside to emerge as the primary backup big man.

MEDICAL WATCH:

F Julian Wright (sprained ankle) was injured in the fourth preseason game on October 14 and is week to week.