In the East, the Bugz are definitely "for real". They have multiple scoring options in Mash, Baron, Wesley - as well as size in Elden (consistent double-doubles), PJ, Big Cat (Magloire improving daily), Traylor (gets his money's worth on fouls) - and a much better bench than last year in Lynch, Nailon (learning to play with Mash, and can score) and Augmon. Bryce Drew has had moments of productivity too.
I think Silas has done a great job bringing the young talent (Baron, ERob, Nailon - and hopefully Haston - along). He takes the parts, and gets them to gel by playoff time. Mash was out for much of the season, as was Lynch. Trading Coleman for Lynch, Traylor and Moiso was brilliant. We lose a walking public relations nightmare - and get size & hustle in return. I haven't seen much of Moiso since his days at UCLA - but if he wants to WORK at his game, he could be a monster on D.
The Hornets are one of the most "mental" teams I've ever seen. When they get rolling, it might take Shaq, Kobe and the refs to stop them. The Lakers will be there at the end, and if the Hornets can keep their heads in the game (unlike game 6 at the Hive against Milwaukee, "nursing" a 16 point lead). Silas was trying to teach them the killer instinct. Until they can finish off the opponent, without mercy and with regularity, they'll have a tough time making the Conference finals. But they're fun to watch regardless.
