The Hornets started their existence in Charlotte but moved to New Orleans in 2002 after the Owner, George Shinn, encountered legal problems with the city. As a franchise the Hornets had to wait until 2008 to claim their first honors when they won the western conference southwest division. They were unable to replicate the form they showed in 2008 and in 2009 finished as seventh seed for the play-offs, eventually losing to Denver in the first round. During the series, the Hornets tied the worst loss in play-off history after losing 121-63.