The New Orleans/OKC Hornets are predicted to finish in last place of the Southwest division of the Western conference. They have a tough division, much like the Cavaliers. San Antonio, Houston, Dallas and Memphis. Some interesting facts about the Cavaliers home opener opponent as written by By Aaron Lopez, of the Rocky Mountain News:
• Last season: 18-64, fifth in division, last in West.
• Coach: Byron Scott (sixth NBA season, second with Hornets, 167-203).
• Best new threads: F Rasual Butler (trade, Heat); G Desmond Mason (trade, Bucks); G Arvydas Macijauskas (free agent, Lithuania); G Chris Paul (draft, Wake Forest); G Kirk Snyder (trade, Jazz).
• Out of style: G Dan Dickau (trade, Celtics); C Jamaal Magloire (trade, Bucks); F Lee Nailon (free agent, 76ers).
• Design trends: Because of Hurricane Katrina, the Hornets will play their home games in Oklahoma City (35) and Baton Rouge, La. (six). Not that it matters. They went 11-30 at home last season.
• Possible fashion faux pas: Pity the designer who has to fit Oklahoma City and New Orleans on the front of a uniform.
• Will walk the playoff runway if . . . : Fate finally smiles on a Gulf Coast team. The Saints are struggling as temporary residents of San Antonio, and the Hornets will fare no better.