The Sacramento Kings stay in the south, visiting the New Orleans Hornets in the second game of a back-to-back. Chris Paul is expected to return for the Hornets after missing a couple games due to a concussion suffered last Sunday against the Cavaliers. Without him, the Hornets somehow defeated the Mavericks but lost quite handily to the Bulls. As we know well, this is an odd team with so few options on offense but a brilliant defensive line-up.

Marcus Thornton will be at center stage. Don't forget, as the fans serenade him with tribute, that he not only was a cult favorite with the Hornets, but that he also attended LSU. The love affair with Thornton runs deep in New Orleans, and I imagine he'll rise to the occasion and give us all a performance to remember. (If not, that's OK too.)

HighTops has the scouting report; treasure it. Tip-off is scheduled for 5 PM Pacific. Game threads at 5 and 6:30. Yay Kings!