Columnists/Blogs...
Jack Armstrong: Many good battles in Western Conference
Lakers have looked totally disinterested down the stretch and only play at their best when challenged. Might not be in this series. No David West for Hornets means no shot. Chris Paul looks like he's on cruise control some nights yet when he wants to be the best guy in the gym, he can be just that. More...
Tim Chisholm: Western Conference predictions for Round 1
The Lakers are statistically superior to New Orleans in just about every measurable category, and they beat the Hornets by an average of 10.8 points per game during their season series. While the Lakers are hardly charging into the postseason, having lost five of their last seven games, they are still a two-time Championship team.More...