It’s no secret that Darren Collison has done exceedingly well thanks to Chris Paul’s injury. So well, in fact, that he’s garnering consideration for one of the best young point guards in the league. And because he’s just a rookie, his rookie contract makes him a great bargain as well. While Chris Paul deserves every penny he makes, his hefty 13+ million salary is a considerably higher amount for a seemingly small and unworthy upgrade from Collison. No doubt any team in the NBA would take Paul over Collison, but the 8 figure differential is a great blow to a money-conservative team like the Hornets. Many of their moves are financially-motivated, and if Collison can sustain such good play as a starter, perhaps it’s time to let their franchise player go? The amount of value he would bring back would be tremendous, as there should only be one team in the whole league that wouldn’t give up a great deal to get CP3. That team, if you’re wondering, would be the Jazz – who have their own super stud point guard Deron Williams; from the same draft class as Paul.

Chris Paul’s injury has been regarded by many as a “blessing in disguise”, thanks to the opportunity it has given to Collison to display his skills. But perhaps it is also a dilemma, as they now (or in the near future) they have to decide what to do with these two point guards who obviously would be wasted talent sharing the same position.

The Hornets two 2009 draft picks – Darren Collison and Marcus Thornton, drafted 21st and 43rd respectively, have been tearing it up to say the least. They are providing great minutes to New Orleans in the backcourt, despite superstar Chris Paul’s absence due to injury. Former UCLA standout PG Collison averaged 22 points and 8 assists shooting just under 50% in February, including an 18-12-13 performance against the Pacers, and is following it up with 16 points and 12 assists on exactly 50% field goals this month of March.

Meanwhile, Marcus Thornton from LSU accumulated 19 points on 46% FG in February, then got more comfortable in March, evident with his statline of 22 PPG on a scorching hot 50% FG. His 3PT percentage this month is 50% as well. When he gets it on, he can absolutely get it on.

These two rookies have been outstanding, but credit needs to be given to head coach Jeff Bower for giving them time and patience to showcase their skills – something Byron Scott wasn’t too keen on doing.

Despite the awful season, at least Hornets fans have something to look forward to, with these two studs being apart of their future.