Spurs' balanced attack too much for Hornets

In thier season opener, the new look Spurs played well and displayed a balanced scoring attack winning 113-96 over the New Orleans Hornets.

Tony Parker landed hard in the 3rd quarter, leaving the game with 17 points. He was able to walk back to the bench on his own and seems fine.

Spurs coach Gregg Popovich said Parker simply had the wind knocked out of him after falling to the court almost horizontally following a layup.

Manu Ginobili, scored 16 points and had 4 assists. While Tim Duncan added 9 points and 12 boards.

Meanwhile, DeJuan Blair was impressive in his NBA debut, scoring 14 points and grabbing 11 rebounds (5 offensive) in just 22.5 minutes of play.

Popovich said "He's showing really good maturity so far, You just have to give him credit. He's got a great way about him and let the game come to him."

Hornets coach Byron Scott called Blair "a monster."

"You know, a 6-5, 6-6 center who comes in and plays 22 minutes and gets 14-11 is pretty impressive, Especially for a rookie." Scott said.

Blair has a humble approach, saying "My teammates are taking me under their wing and showing me what to do, it's been excellent to have that."

Chris Paul scored 26 points and got a technical foul along with Jefferson after they exchanged words at midcourt following Parker's hard fall.

David West chipped in 18 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals, and Emeka Okafor had 18 points and 10 rebounds in his first game for the Hornets.

Six players scored in double figures for the Spurs. Matt Bonner and Roger Mason had 11 apiece and Michael Finley had 10.

Richard Jefferson struggled in his debut scoring 5 points on 1 of 7 shooting. George Hill and McDyess had 9 points a piece off the bench.

It's a great way to start the season, the Spurs' bench gave them the needed spark.

Post game thoughts, Bonner and Finley started for the Spurs. They played well offensively, but both of them struggled on defense.

Matty was attacked early on by David West resulting to 12-6 lead by the Hornets. In my opinion, Bonner should come off the bench. But maybe Coach Pop is sticking to those who knows the system for the time being.

Finley shot the ball very well, going 4-6 from the field. But he didn't play good D. Roger Mason might start in his position, I like Manu coming from the bench, he's so effective that way.

I also expect McDyess to start at the center spot later in the season. I think Pop is still in the "integrating the new guys" mode. Nice win! See you guys tomorrow as we play the Chicago Bulls...

Game highlights...