PHOENIX (AP) — Eric Gordon made a 20-footer from the top of the key with 4.2 seconds to play in his New Orleans debut to give the Hornets an 85-84 victory over the Phoenix Suns in their season opener Monday night.

Gordon, who came to New Orleans in the trade that sent Chris Paul to the Los Angeles Clippers, gave his team its only lead since the first two minutes of the second half.

Suns rookie Markieff Morris threw the ball away on Phoenix’s final possession.

Gordon scored 20 points. Carl Landry added 14 and Trevor Ariza 13 for New Orleans.

Robin Lopez scored 22 points, more than he had in any game last season, for the Suns. Steve Nash had 14 points and 12 assists but was scoreless in the final quarter.

Copyright 2011 The Associated Press.