Never-ending debate

Deron Williams vs. Chris Paul.

It may not rise to Utah-BYU proportions — not this week, not in these parts.

But it is a rivalry wrought with great debate that just won't die, and probably will not until long after the Jazz point guard and the New Orleans Hornets point — the Nos. 3 and 4 selections, respectively, in the 2005 NBA Draft — both are retired.

And even after they're done, there might be an argument over who is better at rocking his chair.

"We know," Williams said Thursday, "we're gonna be linked together for our careers."

They are, much like — pick your era — 1960 1-2 picks Oscar Robertson and Jerry West, or the 2003 crop of current NBA stars LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony and Dwyane Wade.

"There was so much controversy of why we picked (Williams) over Chris, and I think he's proven (why)," Jazz power forward Carlos Boozer said. "Not to say anything bad about Chris. I think Chris is a terrific player as well. But I think he (Williams) has answered those questions."

At least for now.

"I think it's gonna be something we look back on 10 years from now, 12 years from now, however long they play, and we compare and see what happens," Boozer added. "But I give my upper hand to my point guard."

Boozer is biased and readily admits it.

"Obviously," he said, "I play with (Williams), practice with him every day, and I know how good he is and how good he's gonna be."

Only time, though, will ultimately tell who is better.

For now, Williams and Paul must settle for another head-to-head battle to make their case. And it may not determine much, as both are hobbling heading into tonight's meeting at EnergySolutions Arena.

Williams had an ingrown toenail repaired last Tuesday, didn't practice Thursday night and said "I'll have to see" when asked if he'll play tonight — though Jazz coach Jerry Sloan said he thought Williams would be available.

Paul, meanwhile, returned to the New Orleans lineup Wednesday after missing two games with a sprained right ankle.

Medical matters aside, the great debate rages on — in gyms, and on the Internet.

Retired NBA and ex-Jazz guard Tim Legler, now an ESPN.com NBA analyst, addressed the subject earlier this season.