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Gasol seeks continued improvement as Grizzlies meet Hornets

Dec 22, 2006 - 3:19 PM Memphis (6-20) at New Orleans (10-14) 8:00 pm EST

OKLAHOMA CITY (Ticker) -- Paul Gasol is gradually getting back into the flow of game action for the Memphis Grizzlies.

After missing the first 22 games of the season with a broken left foot, Gasol plays his fifth contest for the Grizzlies, who look for just their second win in nine games in Friday's matchup with the New Orleans Hornets.

An All-Star last season, Gasol had been out of action after suffering the injury while playing for Spain in last summer's World Championships. Since his return, he is shooting 56 percent (19-of-34) from the floor and is averaging 11.5 points.

The team's leading scorer in each of his five campaigns, Gasol averaged a double-double against the Hornets last season, scoring 19.3 points and grabbing 10.8 rebounds.

Mike Miller scored 22 points and Gasol added a season-high 16 for Memphis in Wednesday's 105-98 loss to the San Antonio Spurs. The Grizzlies have the worst record in the Western Conference and are a dismal 2-13 on the road.

Things have not been that much better for the Hornets, who are last in the league in scoring (90.5) and 28th in field goal percentage (43.6). They have lost four consecutive games and are only 2-7 in December.

Reigning Rookie of the Year Chris Paul scored 19 points with 10 assists and Jannero Pargo added 16 points for the Hornets, who shot just 37 percent (24-of-65) in Wednesday's 86-83 loss to the Orlando Magic.

Memphis has won the last three meetings against the Hornets. This is their first encounter of the season.