David West still a team focal point

[insidehoops]

Sept. 4 Oklahoman article:

He was the Hornets' leading scorer and rebounder last season. Their most clutch and consistent player, too.

Suddenly, though, David West seems lost in the shuffle of the team's new and improved roster -- an afterthought to prized additions Peja Stojakovic, Bobby Jackson and Tyson Chandler.

Those calling the shots, however, say West is far from a forgotten man. Hornets general manager Jeff Bower insists that West still is very much in the team's game plan. Coach Byron Scott said he expects him to be even better than last season, when he finished second in voting for the league's Most Improved Player Award.

"He's still a big part of what we do," Scott said. "I think his role is not going to be any different. My expectations of him are going to be higher than they were last year. I think we got a taste of what he's capable of doing, and I want more."

[butch mcrae]

Byron's a good coach for him to learn from. The addition of Stojo should give him even more space to produce and get better.