The 2021-22 Phoenix Suns vs the 2007-08 New Orleans Hornets
People forget that CP3 actually enjoyed some fruitful days down on the bayou. During the 2007-08 season, the New Orleans Hornets went 56-22, even earning the Western Conference’s second seed.
The Hornets consequently made their way to the postseason, but lost to the San Antonio Spurs after a gruesome seven game series. They averaged a +5.3 point per game differential for the season, shot 46.6 percent from the field, as well as 38.9 percent from deep.
Paul clearly lead the way, averaging 21.1 points per game, but David West, Peja Stojakovic, and Tyson Chandler helped behind him, collectively averaging 49.3 points per game.
OTD (2007) New Orleans Hornets Chris Paul dished out 21 AST with his 19 PTS in a win vs the Lakers.
— Ballislife.com (@Ballislife) November 6, 2020
Peja Stojakovic knocked down 10-of-13 3PTS & outscored Kobe 36-28 pic.twitter.com/GIhFdSWJrN
We know not what stats or wins this year’s Suns team might attain, but based of last year’s and their additions this season, they still seem like the better group. The 2020-21 Suns averaged a slightly better point per game differential at +5.8 points, and shot much better from the field at 49.0 percent.
The Hornets barely put up better 3-point shooting numbers, just by 1.1 percent. However, you can bet the addition of sharpshooter Landry Shamet will push them over that mark this coming year.
Even with this Hornets team also looking better set up on the glass with prime West and Chandler, last year’s Suns team still averaged more rebounds per game. Adding JaVale McGee only improves that as well. Controlling the glass, averaging more points, and under greater efficiency surely makes this year’s Suns the better group.