Hornets Play Tough As They Swarm Knicks 100-88

Byron Scott knows all about playoff basketball. Now it appears his team is starting to get an understanding of the intensity it takes to be successful at that level. The New Orleans Hornets pulled out a tough 100-88 win against the New York Knicks in Madison Square Garden on Monday night.

The game was much closer than the score appeared as New Orleans went on a 10-0 scoring run in the last 1:46 of the game to seal the win. After two Jamal Crawford free throws put New York within two of New Orleans, 90-88, at the 3:32 mark, Chris Paul took over the game. The precocious point guard scored five points and delivered two assists, including a highlight-reel alley?hoop to Tyson Chandler, during New Orleans ? final scoring run. Paul followed up the hoop to Chandler with a drive to the basket that resulted in a layup and the ?and one.? Paul made the ensuing free throw and New York was finished emotionally. The Knicks played a sharp game offensively, despite shooting only 40.7% from the floor. They displayed crisp passing and hustle on the offensive boards, of which they grabbed 12. New York ?s problem once again was a lack of focus, only this time it was delayed towards the very end of the contest.

Much like their head coach when he played, the Hornets have a toughness and strong will about them that will serve them well come playoff time. Their leader, Paul, had another great game as he scored 27 points, dished eight assists, ripped three steals and turned the ball over only twice. David West added 18 points and eight rebounds for New Orleans and Tyson Chandler turned in a monster game, scoring 15 points and grabbing 18 rebounds.

Crawford led the Knicks with 20 points and six assists, but couldn?t get in offensive rhythm at the end of the game. He once again showed his shot selection immaturity, hoisting many untimely shots on the way to missing 13 of his 20 shots. Nate Robinson was a spark plug for the Knicks, making seven of nine shots and both his free throws for 17 points in the first half before going scoreless after halftime.