Hornets Swarm T-Wolves 100-82

The New Orleans Hornets playing without their quarterback, and team leader Chris Paul mounted a balanced scoring attack to defeat the Minnesota Timberwolves 100-82 Saturday night. Paul missed the game due to a sprained ankle he suffered against Memphis Friday night.

New Orleans who have gotten off to a very impressive?9-2 start after this win were led by Peja Stojakovic who had 2 points. All five Hornets starter were?in double figures six players in all. “Mo Pete” forward Morrison Peterson had 18 points, and 7?rebounds?, Janero Pargo who substituted for Paul had 15 points and 7 assists. David West and Tyson Chandler both had 12 for New Orleans while the rookie forward Julian Wright had 10 points coming off the bench.

Minnesota had for players in double figures with center Al Jefferson leading the way with 20 points and 10 rebounds. The only other starter in double figures was Antoine Walker with 10 points, Ryan Gomes put in 15 coming off the bench and Greg Buckner added 12. Minnesota kept the game competitive in the first half trailing 25-21 after a quarter, and only down 42-40 at the half. But Charlotte pulled away in the third quarter, and the T-Wolves never recovered. Minnesota now has a 1-7 record, as head coach Randy Wittman looks older and older very day.