Game Day Preview: Spurs vs. Hornets

TEAM LEADERS
	Points	Rebounds	Assists
SPURS	Manu Ginobili 21.2	Tim Duncan 9.5	Tony Parker 7.0
HORNETS	David West 18.8	Emeka Okafor 9.9	Chris Paul 10.5

The San Antonio Spurs (16-3) has the NBA's best record and is 8-2 at home after a 107-101 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves last Friday. The Spurs overcame a 15-point deficit, outscoring the Timberwolves 36-15 in the fourth quarter.

Tim Duncan led the Spurs with 22 points and 10 rebounds while Tony Parker and George Hill each scored 20 points.

The New Orleans Hornets (13-6) and the Spurs have split their first two meetings and both teams have won on the other team's home floor. San Antonio overcame a 17-point deficit for a 109-95 victory in New Orleans last November 28, while the Hornets won in San Antonio 99-90 last October 30.

They Hornets are looking to get back on track after losing to the New York Knicks 100-92 last Friday.

Trevor Ariza led the team with a season-high 21 points while Chris Paul added 17 points and 10 assists.

After winning 11 of their first 12 games averaging 97.5 points, the Hornets have averaged 92.0 points in the last seven games. 

David West sat out with a stomach virus in their game against the Knicks. It's not certain if he will play against the Spurs tonight. 

KEYS TO THE GAME

Offense -- The Spurs has to get Duncan involved on the offense early to set the tone on the inside. He should get enough help from Ginobili, Jefferson, Parker and Hill on offense. 

Defense -- Containing Chris Paul will always be key, but the Spurs should also focus on limiting David West on the offensive end. Taking control of the rebounds is also a must.

HORNETS:

Offense -- Their offense starts with Chris Paul and David West. Plus they should get added offensive boost from Ariza, Belinelli and Okafor. 

Defense -- Contain Duncan on the inside and limit Ginobili, Parker, Jefferson and Hill's dribble penetrations. They also have to be wary of the Spurs outside shooters.

INJURIES

Spurs -- James Anderson - stress fracture (out)

Hornets -- David West - stomach virus (day-to-day)

PREDICTION: The Hornets have already won on San Antonio's home floor and will bring that confidence tonight against the Spurs. However, even with the best record in the NBA, the Spurs are still improving and are slowly getting better on the defensive end.

The Spurs must avoid a slow start and match the Hornets' energy. The team that controls the rebounds and dominate on the inside will win this game. I say Spurs 98, Hornets 90.