For the first time since he had a pin surgically inserted in his injured left foot in April, star point guard Chris Paul wore Hornets practice gear Monday. </p> He spent two hours lifting weights at the team's temporary practice facility in Westwego. Although Paul did not spend time on the court, he said next week most of his work will shift there when a number of Hornets players begin voluntary workouts at the Alario Center in preparation for next month's training camp. </p> "I'm still just trying to strengthen my foot a little more, trying to make sure I'm ready for training camp," Paul said. </p> <div class='quotetop'>QUOTE </div><div class='quotemain'>After undergoing surgery for a stress reaction, Paul said he would follow doctors orders and the advice of several teammates and not participate on Team USA to give his foot enough time to heal. </p> "It didn't feel right to tell you the truth," said Paul, about sitting out the entire summer. "At the same time, I think it gave me a better appreciation and understanding. From watching the playoffs, the NBA Finals and the USA team, it definitely makes me want to win even more now." </p> Paul played the final 17 games with his left foot injured. In December, Paul severely sprained his right ankle and missed 17 games. Despite those setbacks, Paul averaged 17.3 points and led the team with 8.9 assists per game. </p> "Chris took it upon himself to make calls to guys to get here early, so they can go on the court and play," Hornets Coach Byron Scott said Monday. "You see a couple of guys now, a couple more are coming tomorrow. They are just filtering in this week, and I think it's great." </p> Paul arrived in New Orleans on Sunday after attending the Saints-Colts football game on Thursday night in Indianapolis. </p> "I'm just trying to make sure my place is ready and get acclimated to getting around to different places here," Paul said. "I'm excited about being back. I talked to our trainer yesterday, and we talked about how good it feels.</div></p> Source: NOLA </p> </p>
