Lakers vs. Hornets and Kobe vs. Chris Paul

The Lakers and the Hornets both have a lot at stake tonight as they square off in an epic battle at Staples Center in Los Angeles. Chris Paul leads the Hornets against the Lakers with the Western Conference's best record at 55-23 and also leads the league in assists at 11.5 a game and steals at 2.7. Kobe's Lakers are only one and a half games behind the Hornets, but need a win to keep pace and take another step to locking up the Pacific Division. The Hornets have had a formidable season and look forward to the play-off atmosphere expected on a Friday night in tinsel town. It's an opportunity for the Hornets to showcase their talent in head coach Byron Scott's backyard. Byron is probably a shoo-in for Coach of the Year, as he has surpassed everyone's expectations. What he's done with this team, is nothing short of remarkable. In his first four years he's went 18 wins, 38 wins, 39 wins and this year 55 plus. Their progression and growth can be attributed to the expertise of Byron Scott. He seems to run a tight ship and get the most out of his ball players.