It has been enlightening during the past week to talk with observers of the NBA and read what they have written about the Hornets hiring Tim Floyd as their new coach.

There are two schools of thought, one dominated by the news media from Chicago and its disciples, the other by more open-minded individuals who believe in second chances.

The adage, of course, is you never get a second chance to make a first impression.

Floyd's adopted hometown, New Orleans, has given him that second chance.

That it comes so quickly after his first, horrific experience as an NBA coach is probably what caught many off guard. Yet it is confounding to believe that anyone could look at the job Floyd did with what he had to work with in Chicago and believe he is not a better coach.