Williams turns in All-Star-quality performance against Hornets

Deron Williams came out of the game to a standing ovation with 1:28 to play and the outcome clearly decided against the New Orleans Hornets on Monday night at EnergySolutions Arena.

After the cheers died down a bit and Williams had taken a seat on the Utah Jazz bench, a nearby fan yelled, "You're an All-Star, Williams.' The third-year point guard acknowledged the fan's compliment by raising his left hand high in the air with a thumbs-up sign.

Technically, the fan was incorrect.

Williams, now in his third NBA season, has yet to be named to an NBA All-Star team.

But he certainly played like an All-Star in the 110-88 victory over the Hornets. Williams got the better of rival third-year playmaker and first-time All-Star Chris Paul.

"Deron took it upon himself tonight to show the league and the coaches that he deserved to be in the All-Star Game,' said Jazz All-Star forward Carlos Boozer. "He proved it again against a very good point guard in Chris Paul. He took it right at him and almost fouled him out of the game. He just wanted to send a message.' The message was sent loud and clear.

Williams finished with a game-high 29 points, making 11 of his 13 shots from the field. He also added 11 assists and didn't commit a single personal foul.

He scored inside with drives to the hoop, including one for a monster dunk over 7-1 Tyson Chandler that brought the house down.

And he scored outside, sinking three 3-point jumpers on four tries.

Paul, on the other hand, scored just six points on 3-of-11 shooting with six assists along with five fouls and five turnovers.

Williams downplays his rivalry with Paul. Still, the fact remains that the third and fourth overall picks in the 2005 draft will always be linked. So far Williams has generally gotten the best in the head-to-head match-ups both individually and for his team. The Jazz are now 7-2 against the Hornets since both players entered the league.