Hornets to Extend Byron Scott – Fantasy Impact

After leading the New Orleans Hornets to a game seven against the defending NBA champion San Antonio Spurs in the Western Conference Semi-Finals, Byron Scott is going to be rewarded with a new contract extension. While he hasn’t officially signed the extension yet, that appears to be just a formality at this point.

Scott, who was named the 2007-08 NBA Coach of the Year, did a wonderful job with the Hornets. He gave Chris Paul room to grow and do whatever he wanted offensively. Paul responded by finishing second in the MVP voting behind Kobe Bryant. Other players on the team, such as David West, Tyson Chandler and Peja Stojakovic, also seem to respond well to Scott’s coaching.

In fantasy basketball, this is good news for the starting lineup of the Hornets. Paul, West, Chandler, Stojakovic and Morris Peterson should continue to get substantial playing time going forward. Not only that, their production should at worst remain the same.

However, Scott has never been known to be especially kind to his bench players. This year was no different, as Scott often publicly complained about the lack of production from his bench. While bench players Julian Wright and Jannero Pargo seem to have good futures, it’s tough to tell how Scott will feel about his bench from day to day.

For Hornets fans in New Orleans, this is very good news. The Hornets now appear ready to become a legit championship contender for many years to come.

Photo: Newscom