Hornets point guard Chris Paul says that his left knee injury could help the team in the long run.

"Me being out, this may be a blessing in disguise," said Paul. "Some people may say, 'What in the world does that mean?' But I think it gives other guys a lot of confidence right now. Hopefully when I come back ... we can make a push at this playoff run."

Paul had surgery to repair a meniscus tear last Thursday.

New Orleans is 3-4 in their seven games without their All-Star point guard.

"I definitely didn't want this to happen, but if it happened, this is a good time because we do get ... a few more days to try to get back," said Paul of the All-Star break.

"I'm just happy that the surgery went well. Rehab is going great and now I can at least travel with the team and go see games."