Watching Hornet sensation Chris Paul lob a pass to Tyson Chandler for the go-ahead dunk is a thing of fiction for many in St. Tammany Parish, and it likely will be for a while.

Southshore cable provider Cox Communication owns the broadcasting rights to the New Orleans Hornets.

Last year, with the help of parish councilmen and other officials, intense pressure was put on Charter Commnications, the Northshore’s primary cable provider, and Cox to come to an agreement that would secure a spot in Charter’s programming for Hornets games. Public outcry grew, but talks fizzled as quickly as they peaked, and no deal was made.

A new year and a new season with the current Hornets means a clean slate for discussions — right?

So far, not so good.

“Unfortunately at this time, we’re not preparing to add the program to our current lineup,” Nick Pavlis, director of government and community relations with Charter, said.

Talks haven’t even resumed between the companies and likely won’t for some time, Pavlis said.

But there’s still hope.

“The door is always open on both sides. We will continue in good faith our efforts to negotiate a deal that’s good for their business side and good for our customers,” Pavlis said.

Pavlis said a contract has not been struck with Cox because the right deal hasn’t been formulated that would profit both parties and Northshore customers, who Pavlis admitted would likely pay more for services.

“We realize there’s a demand for it, but we have to be very careful to keep our customers’ costs down as much as possible,” Pavlis said.

A major advocate during last season’s talks, Parish Councilman Chairman Jerry Binder still has a bad taste in his mouth.

“I would just hope they can work something out. It would be terrific for St. Tammany Parish,” Binder said.

All is not lost, Pavlis said.

Because of their sensational regular season 56-26 record last year, and their playoff birth almost landing them in the championship game, the Hornets have garnered national attention and will likely have more appearances on primetime television this season.

Last March, Cox and satellite provider Dish Network signed a deal that extends to 2010 where Dish Network customers within 75 miles of New Orleans and Baton Rouge can watch the games on Dish through Cox Sports Television.

Talks with DirectTV were also held, but so far that satellite television provider has not picked up CST.