NEW ORLEANS -- As far as big games go, this is one of the biggest the Hornets will face this year. The Hornets are coming off a second-straight defeat at the hands of the Los Angeles Lakers, who seem to be getting their house in order at the expense of the Hornets. To make matters worse, it looks as though Hornets point guard Chris Paul has an unexplained injury to his left thumb.
The Hornets cannot afford to be without their All-Star point guard against the surging Lakers. Though Paul is expected to be just fine for April 24's game, one has to wonder if the injury will limit his level of play.
Hornets' bench players Jarrett Jack, Aaron Gray and Quincy Pondexter did everything they could to keep the Hornets effective and in contention, but it has not been enough. The Hornets hoped returning home to their fans and rowdy arena would help fuel their fire in Game 3, but there was no such luck as the Lakers dealt them a 100-86 defeat.
A win by the Lakers Sunday will give Los Angeles the opportunity to close out the series April 26 at the Staples Center. A win Tuesday would keep the Lakers from having to return to New Orleans, even if the Lakers seem to thrive on the road in the playoffs.
The Hornets will try to make the necessary adjustments Sunday, but the Lakers look to be to tough and have too much depth to let the Hornets tie the series up. If the Hornets are to win, they will have to play virtually perfect and hope the Lakers have another off night like they did for Game 1.
This may not be an elimination game for the Hornets but make no mistakes, this is a big game and when it's said and done, look for the Lakers twin towers to come out standing big and tall.
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