Hornets top NBA's early-season surprises

Here's a rundown of what's going on in the NBA two weeks into the new season:

Biggest surprise: New Orleans. The Hornets may not go 82-0 this season, but they're the only team that still has a chance. Runner-up: Minnesota's Kevin Love and Michael Beasley as the league's next dynamic duo.

Biggest disappointment: It's too soon for Miami (6-4) to panic, but adding defenseless center Zydrunas Ilgauskas to the starting lineup smacks of desperation. Runner-up: Orlando. Outside of Dwight Howard and Jameer Nelson, no one on the Magic is meeting expectations.

Injury issues: Houston's Yao Ming is back on the shelf with a sprained ankle and isn't expected to play against the Bulls on Tuesday. … Ron Artest diagnosed a knee injury by Portland's Brandon Roy, who has not missed games, but clearly is not himself.

MVP: 1. Chris Paul, Hornets. Want proof that Paul is on top of his game? Emeka Okafor is shooting nearly 70 percent from the field.

2. Paul Millsap, Jazz. With Carlos Boozer out of the way, Millsap is averaging 21.9 points and 9.3 rebounds, while shooting 61 percent from the field.

3. Rajon Rondo, Celtics. The Big Three doesn't seem quite as old with Rondo averaging 15 assists.

Quote to note: “This season is what I have been waiting for all my life. Four years playing under Carlos (Boozer), I finally got a chance to go out there and showcase my skills to the fullest.” Utah's Paul Millsap.