Paul injured and Blazers beat Hornets, 97-89

Moving to New Orleans where the Hornets hosted the Portland Trail Blazers. Chris Paul assisted on the Hornets' first 7 baskets and had 9 assists in the first quarter. He stole an inbound pass and went all the way for a fast-break layup, giving New Orleans a 24-15 lead.

Paul added a 3-pointer with 2 seconds to go in the second period, leading the Hornets to a 48-39 advantage at halftime. But things turned around in the late third quarter, as Paul had to leave the game with a strained groin. It was the first playing time he has missed all season.

Portland outscored New Orleans 26-7 after Paul went to the bench. Rudy Fernandez's 3 gave Portland an 81-79 lead. The visitors would go on to win, 97-89.