Game On: Spurs @ Hornets


How will the Hornets handle the first game after an epic win over the Clippers? Plus we have a nice little mix exhibiting Jason Smith’s awesomeness. 

Monty said at shootaround that the Hornets haven’t been at their best coming off of emotional wins so far this year. “When you have a big emotional win like that, you tend to want to come in and chill like it’s Club Med. That is a sign of a young team that is not used to being in those positions. I don’t think we’re going to have that tonight – I think we’re going to come out and play really hard.”

That nice to hear, but whether or not the Hornets can pull it off is another question. San Antonio is in reality a superior team to the Clippers so far this year. They’ve quietly had another nice season, and stand just three and a half games back of the Thunder for tops out West.

Your Hornets shot the lights out against the Clippers, and they might have to do the same against San Antonio if they are to pull out a W. The Spurs have the third highest offensive efficiency rating in the league and the second highest effective field goal percentage. They back it up with the 16th ranked defense, better than that of the 22nd ranked Clippers.

While Landry is back, Ariza is out. Also, Kaman was sent home sick from shootaround with an illness, and it’s unclear whether he’ll play this evening. If not, it’s likely to be a long night for the Hornets inside. Landry and Ayon are not exactly a powerhouse combination up top, even if Landry is 100%. As a result, there’s a good chance that Lance Thomas will get some serious minutes and an opportunity to back up up his strong performance against the Clips.

I’ll have some updates from the Arena.

 


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