Is New Orleans for real?

In a word: Yes. B. Scott has done a terrific job. I honestly think they would have made the playoffs last season if they would have been healthy. N.O.'s young nucleus has really come along quickly and -- with the postseason experience they're getting now -- they'll only get better. That's gotta concern other teams in the West.

The keys: C. Paul, who controls the tempo as well as anyone in the league, and West, who is still underrated even as an All Star. West plays hard and can really face-up shoot.

Should be a fun team to watch over the next few seasons.