The Hornets jumped out to a 20-9 lead in the first quarter as the team played with energy through out the game. Rookies Darren Collison and Marcus Thornton, since being given extensive playing time under Bower, have not disappointed. Collison starting in place of injured Chris Paul finished with 15 points, 5 assists and 5 rebounds. Thornton had 19 points and 4 rebounds in 20 minutes of action.
It was Stojakovic’s deadly long distance aim however that kept the Suns at bay every time Phoenix would make a run. Peja was 7-11 from beyond the arc and finished the night with 25 points, but also pulled down 13 rebounds.
Amare Stoudemire led the Suns with 23 points, while Steve Nash was held to 13 points.
The Hornets not only won their second straight game, but outrebounded their opponent for the second straight game. New Orleans pulled down 56 boards to Phoenix’s 38.
It will be another tough test the next time the Hornets take to the court as they face the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday night at the Hive. Atlanta has the best record in the Eastern Conference currently as they host the Rockets on Friday.
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