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SuperSonics take aim at fourth straight win vs. Hornets

Feb 23, 2007 - 3:27 PM Seattle (21-32) at New Orleans (26-29) 8:00 pm EST

OKLAHOMA CITY (Ticker) -- Recent success by the Seattle SuperSonics has shown how much they missed Rashard Lewis earlier this season.

Lewis attempts to lead the SuperSonics to their season-high fourth consecutive victory Friday when they face the New Orleans Hornets in their third encounter of the campaign.

Seattle went 7-15 after Lewis was sidelined with an injured hand December 20. Since his return on February 10, he is averaging 25.7 points and 6.7 rebounds in his last three games while shooting nearly 47 precent (28-of-60) from the floor.

In their first contest following the All-Star break, the SuperSonics posted a 121-105 triumph over the Memphis Grizzlies. Lewis scored 34 points on 13-of-25 shots and All-Star Ray Allen added 27.

The Hornets have also benefited from the recent return of standouts David West (elbow) and reigning Rookie of the Year Chris Paul (ankle). They have won seven of their last 10 contests and are tied with the Golden State Warriors for the final Western Conference playoff berth.

New Orleans is coming off Wednesday's 111-107 triumph over the New Jersey Nets. West scored 32 points, Paul added 19 and Marc Jackson 17 for the Hornets.

Seattle has taken both meetings against New Orleans this season and eight of the last 11 in the series. However, the Hornets have won 10 of their last 11 home games overall.