J-Smooth starting again tonight

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What's up with Landry?

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Since a dismal performance last week against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Hornets forward Carl Landry’s playing time and production on the court have steadily declined. Though he rarely criticizes players in public, New Orleans Coach Monty Williams said he hasn’t seen the effort typically given by Landry, who was vital in the team’s playoff push last season after former Hornets forward David West suffered a season-ending knee injury.

Despite being on a four-game losing streak going into tonight’s game against the Memphis Grizzlies at the New Orleans Arena, it appears until Landry gives the effort that Williams expects, he will continue to spend more time on the bench than on the floor.

“The way I see it with Carl, a lot of times guys have droughts in the league; the one thing that can’t be affected when you’re playing is your passion and effort,” Williams said. “He’s a skilled guy, but he’s best when he’s just out there running around and starting stuff. That’s what we’re trying to get him to be more like that consistently.

“Guys go through stretches where they miss shots, and they’re not playing that well on offense, but we’ve always demanded that our guys defend and play hard. If Carl does those things consistently, he’s going to play, regardless of his offense.”

...“I have to pick it up,” said Landry, who agreed to a one-year, $9 million deal in December. “I know there are things I did last year that they’re not seeing. We have a coaching staff that has years upon years of experience. They know what’s best for the team, and I believe in them and trust in them as a unit.

“I think they want the best thing for me as well as this ballclub. I’m going to listen to them and do the best I can.”

To improve his post play, Landry worked against centers Emeka Okafor and Kaman in drills near the end of Tuesday’s practice at the Alario Center. Landry said he’s going to watch more video and evaluate himself closer before tonight’s game.

“I’m not mad about what he said. I just have to go back to the drawing board and do the little things it takes to stay on the floor,” Landry said. “Coach has been preaching defense the whole year, and we’re obviously a good defensive team. Only one player, Kevin Love, really had a good offensive game against us — but the defensive area is really where I want to pick up. I don’t know right now, I have to pick it up all around.”

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He'll be a beast as the backup to whichever of the PF's we get in the draft.

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