I don't follow the NBA all that closely until April when players start trying a little harder and games matter, but don't tell that to the Hornets.
Playing every possession like it matters, I was astonished to learn the Chris Paul led Hornets are now in 1st place in the West. At 29-12, New Orleans seemingly gets production from everyone, every night. Jannero Pargo even scored 24 points last night in 24 minutes and David West's performance this season is all star worthy. Beast.
It's hard not to like this group, and of course returning to the Bayou full time this season makes them a compelling story as we get closer to the period where your average sports fan starts to notice the NBA.
Last year Golden State snuck into the playoffs as an 8-seed and brought with them a huge bandwagon of fans across the country. Fun style of play, and the very likable Baron Davis and Monta Ellis turned into the underdog fan favorite.
I get the feeling the Hornets are that team this season, but can they do so as the #1 in the Western Conference?
I believe eventually they will slow a bit and the normals will keep their usual consistent play. As long is Paul is playing at this high of a level, I can't see them dropping lower than a 4 and they will be making noise in the playoffs because they matchup pretty well against most of the playoff contenders in the west.
I would like to point out, because I am all about self promotion, that I said the Hornets would be a playoff team last season. One year off so expect that to be a trend and Felton to become a top tier point guard next season.