Previewing L.A. Lakers Vs. N.O. Hornets

The Lakers and Hornets get back to work tonight at the Staples Center for game 5 of their series. The Lakers looked to take a stranglehold on the series in New Orleans two nights ago, but ran into a buzz saw as Chris Paul went off for a triple double, compiling 27 points, 13 rebounds and 15 assists; carrying the Hornets to a game 4 victory to even the series at 2 a piece.

Sunday night brought a nip and tuck affair with neither team stretching their lead to double digits at any point during the game. Both teams shot respectably well from the field despite both squads being cold from three point land.

Points of interest tonight include whether or not CP3 can don the superman cape once more and put this team on his back, Kobe's ankle, and Trevor Ariza's D on Kobe down the stretch.

Ariza, a former Laker has limited Bryant to 3 of 11 shooting in the 4th quarter this series, an area where the "Black Mamba" is usually most deadly.

Also factored into tonight's tilt is Kobe's ankle. With 1:33 remaining in the 4th Kobe went down with a sprained ankle, playing on defense and it will be interesting to see if he can play at the level of intensity the Lakers need him to bring. The sprain doesn't seem serious but this is one of those instances where we'll see the opportunity for a great athlete to rise above physical limitations to do something special.

All in all tonight should be an interesting game, if the Hornets can steal one in Los Angeles, you have to like their chances to close out the series in New Orleans in front of their home crowd Thursday night.