Bull Run: A Season with the 1995-96 Chicago Bulls(NBA 2k13)

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GAME: NBA 2K13
SYSTEM: PS3
DIFFICULTY: HoF
USER CONTROL: All 30 Teams
SEASON LENGTH: 82 Games
QUARTER LENGTH: 12 MINUTES
PLAYOFF FORMAT: 5-7-7-7
ROSTERS: NBA 2k13 - 1995-96 full roster(PS3)
SLIDERS: http://www.operationsports.com/forum...3-sliders.html
OBJECTIVES: Win at least 72 regular season games and NBA Championship

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1995-96 NBA Eastern Conference Preview

Atlantic Division

1) New York Knicks – 94-95 Rec. 55-27(Lost to Pacers in E.C. Semis)

For the third straight season the Knicks faced off against the Indiana Pacers in the NBA Playoffs, but unlike the previous meetings the Pacers came out on top thanks to some Reggie Miller heroics and Patrick Ewing’s missed lay-up in game seven.

Pat Riley resigned the day after the 1995 NBA Finals ended leaving the Knicks in need of coach that can fill Riley’s shoes(if any exist). After Don Nelson stepped down as the head coach of the Golden State Warriors, he was tapped to be the next coach of the storied New York franchise. It will be interesting to see how the new coach adapts to the Knicks rough and tough style that Riley ingrained in his players

The Knicks lineup remains largely unchanged enter the 95-96 season. Patrick Ewing continues to anchor the franchise at center. The only contributing player who left the team was guard Greg Anthony, who was selected by the Vancouver Grizzlies in the expansion draft. Charlie Ward and Gary Grant will look take Anthony’s spot at the back-up PG.

Player to Watch: PG – Charlie Ward; While he has shown flashes of the athleticism that helped him with the Heisman Trophy at Florida State, it remains to be seen if Ward has what it takes to be a reliable NBA player in a back-up role. The loss of Anthony leaves the door open for Ward, time will tell if Ward walks through it.

Projected Lineup:
PG – Derek Harper
SG – John Starks
SF – Anthony Mason
PF – Charles Oakley
C – Patrick Ewing

2) Boston Celtics – 94-95 Rec. 35-47(Lost to Orlando in E.C. 1st round)

Despite finishing 12 games under .500 the Celtics managed to make the playoffs as the 8th seed in the Eastern Conference. If they hope to improve upon that mark they will need to replace two key veteran forwards. Both Dominique Wilkins and Xavier McDaniel have opted to play their basketball in Europe rather than return to the Celtics. Rick Fox will step into the starting lineup replacing Wilkins and Dino Radja will be looked to for more scoring in the post. Boston drafted forward Eric Williams out of Providence with the 14th overall and he will take McDaniels spot as a defensive stopper off the bench.

The Celtics have a bit of a log jam at guard with Sherman Douglas and Dee Brown returning from last season and David Wesley and Dana Barros joining the team as free agents. Don’t be surprised if the Celtics make a move early possibly for a 2 guard.

Player to Watch: Dino Radja; The Croatian power forward has had two better than average NBA thus far. However, this season the Celtics will look to him as the 1st scoring option. All signs point to Radja being able to handle the responsibility but if he can’t the Celtics will be in for a very long season.

Projected Lineup:
PG – Sherman Douglas
SG – Dee Brown
SF – Rick Fox
PF – Dino Radja
C – Eric Montross

3) New Jersey Nets – 94-95 Rec. 30-52(11th in the East)

On paper the New Jersey Nets look to have the makings of a decent NBA team. Point guard Kenny Anderson and Power Forward Derrick Coleman are both All-Star level talents. But with Coleman often injured as of late the Nets roster does not have the depth to replace him.

Heading into this season things are up in the air for the entire franchise. When will Coleman be ready to return? Are the rumors that Anderson wants out true?

The Nets used their 1st round draft pick(9th overall) on UCLA forward Ed O’Bannon. Nets management is hoping that O’Bannon can bring his championship pedigree and attitude from the Bruins to New Jersey.

Overall things don’t look promising heading forward for the Nets franchise, but if they can ever fulfill their potential the Eastern Conference may be in for a shock.

Player to Watch: C- Yinka Dare; The Nets first round pick in 1994, Dare remains a mystery in the NBA appearing in only one game last season before suffering a torn ACL. New Jersey left the 7 foot Nigerian unprotected in the expansion draft but he was not selected. If the Nets coaching staff can tap into the potential he showed in college George Washington they may have new post presence for years to come.

Projected Lineup:
PG – Kenny Anderson
SG – Kevin Edwards
SF – P.J. Brown
PF – Armen Gilliam
C –Yinka Dare

4) Philadelphia 76ers – 94-95 Rec. 24-48(13th in East)

Last season was not one to remember for Sixers fans. However, things may be looking up in the “City of Brotherly Love”. Philadelphia used the number three selection in the draft on Jerry Stackhouse. The swingman out of North Carolina should add some badly offense to the Sixers. Paired with Shawn Bradley the Sixers have an inside out combo to build around for the future.

With Dana Barros now playing for division rival Boston Philadelphia turned to free agent Vernon Maxwell. Maxwell brings with a notoriously hot temper, but also two championship rings from his time with the Houston Rockets.

Clarence Weatherspoon is the teams leading returning scorer and will likely be the number option early on while Stackhouse settles in to the NBA.

Player to Watch: C – Shawn Bradley; Will this be the year that Bradley starts to show some potential on the offensive end of the court? While his defense cannot be overlooked the 76ers need more than 9.5 ppg out of their 7’6” center.

Projected Lineup:
PG – Vernon Maxwell
SG – Jerry Stackhouse
SF – Richard Dumas
PF – Clarence Weatherspoon
C – Shawn Bradley

5) Toronto Raptors – Exanpasion Team

Raptors General Manager Isiah Thomas could have been more pleased with his first draft pick for the new franchise. Thomas selected point guard Damon Stoudamire out of Arizona with the 7th overall pick. The GM will surely be looking to pass on his knowledge to his new PG protégé.

The rest of the Raptors team was filled through the expansion draft where Toronto and Vancouver had the opportunity to select players who were left unprotected the by their current team.

Toronto had the first pick and selected B.J. Armstrong of the Chicago Bulls who was later traded to Golden State for 5 players. Other Raptors selections include Tony Massenburg(LAC), Jerome Kersey(POR, traded with Armstrong to GSW), and Oliver Miller(PHO).

Being their first season not too much is expected from the Raptors, but none the less the NBA has gone international and that is a win in their book.

Player to Watch: PG – Damon Stoudamire; Can he hold up to the pressure of being the first pick in franchise history? Will he be able to learn PG position in the NBA from Thomas? Both are hard to predict, but if his college performance tells us anything I’d expect big things from Toronto’s little man.

Projected Lineup:
PG – Damon Stoudamire
SG – Alvin Robertson
SF – Ed Pinckney
PF – Carlos Rogers
C – Zan Tabak

Central Division

1) Chicago Bulls – 94-95 Rec. 47-35(Lost to Orlando in E.C. semis)

Even with Michael Jordan’s return from suspes…err baseball the Chicago Bulls were unable to handle the size Orlando Magic’s size in their Eastern Conference semi-finals loss.

Needing to find someone to fill the Horace Grant role form the teams early 90’s championship run Chicago traded back up center Will Perdue to the San Antonio Spurs for eccentric power forward Dennis Rodman. If Bulls zen Master Phil Jackson can keep Rodman’s focus on the court he may be the missing piece to spark another Bulls title run.

That of course depends on one man; Michael Jeffery Jordan. While averaged 26.9 points per game, including a 55 point outburst in Madison Square Garden, after his return to the court, Jordan was not the same player that retired after the 1992-93 season. With the advancements in Scottie Pippen’s game and the addition of Toni Kukoc, if Jordan can reclaim his spot as the leagues top player the Bulls have all the makings of a championship squad.

Player to Watch: Dennis Rodman; If the “Worm” can keep his temper under control and by virtue himself in games he will add badly needed rebounding to the Bulls. If he can’t he stands the chance of leaving Jordan wishing he was still shagging fly balls in AA ball.

Projected Lineup:
PG – Ron Harper
SG – Michael Jordan
SF – Scottie Pippen
PF – Dennis Rodman
C – Luc Longley


2) Indiana Pacers – 94-95 Rec. 52-30(Lost to Orlando in E.C. Finals)

It looked like it was going to be the Pacers year. They had beaten their rival the New York Knicks to reach the Eastern Conference Finals for the 2nd straight year. Reggie Miller had put on one of the greatest performances in NBA history in the game 1 win over the Knicks. Ewing missed a game tying lay-up as the Pacer won the series in 7 games. All they had to do wad defeat the Orlando Magic and they would be heading to the NBA Finals.

It was not meant to be. The Pacers came up short and lost to the Magic in seven games.

Several of the Pacers veterans will be with new teams when the 95-96 season starts. Byron Scott, Sam Mitchell, Vern Fleming and LaSalle Thompson are all with new teams. Indiana choose to replace the veterans they lost with other NBA vets. Ricky Pierce and Eddie Johnson will be key to Pacers success if they can provided some needed scoring off the bench.

Player to Watch: SG - Reggie Miller: How long can Miller continue to carry his team in the clutch? Odds say the Pacers are due for a down year, but as long as Miller is still on the team you can never count the Pacers out(see Game 1 1995 E.C. Semis).

Projected Lineup:
PG – Mark Jackson
SG – Reggie Miller
SF – Derrick McKey
PF – Dale Davis
C – Rik Smits

3) Cleveland Cavaliers – 94-95 Rec. 43-39(Lost to Knick in E.C. 1st round)

With the exit of Mark Price(traded to WAS) and Hot Rod Williams(traded to Suns) the last remnants of the early 90’s Cavs were gone. With Price gone Terrell Brandon takes over at PG full time. Williams will likely be replaced by Michael Cage, a move that some consider an upgrade.

Clevelands biggest prize from those trades is three point marksman Dan Majerle who averaged 15.6 ppg for the Suns last season.

The rest of the Cavaliers lineup will look similar to 94-95. Chris Mills, Bobby Phills, and Danny Ferry all return and all three should be starting this season.

Cleveland took Florida State guard Bob Sura with their 1st round draft pick. Sura should see minutes at both guard spots and will provided some nice athleticism off the bench.

Player to Watch: PG – Terrell Brandon; Now that Mark Price has been shipped off the Cavs are now Brandon’s team. Coming off a career best year of 13.3 ppg and 5.4 ast. Brandon should put up even better numbers as the full time starter. The Cavs definitely got younger, but did they get better?

Projected Lineup:
PG – Terrell Brandon
SG – Bobby Phills
SF – Chris Mills
PF – Tyrone Hill
C – Michael Cage

4) Detroit Pistons – 94-95 Rec. 28-54(12th in East)

The 1994-95 season was not a good one for the Detroit Pistons. Grant Hill did win the Rookie of the Year award but that may have been the only bright spot.

However, things are looking up in the “Motor City”, Hill returns for his 2nd season along with sharp shooting Allan Houston and point guard Lindsey Hunter Detroit has three good young players to build around.

Detroit also added a veteran inside presence when they traded for Otis Thorpe. The Pistons will look to Thorpe to help develop this years first round pick Theo Ratliff.

Joe Dumars returns for his 11th NBA season and will action at both guard spots this season.

If things continue to progress at their current pace I predict we see the Pistons back in the playoffs sooner rather than later.

Player to Watch: PG – Lindsey Hunter; With Dumars ageing quickly the Pistons need Hunter to take over as the lead guard on the team. He seemed ready for the job in 26 starts last season, but it remains to be seen if he can be the starting PG for a playoff caliber team.

Projected Lineup:
PG – Lindsey Hunter
SG – Joe Dumars
SF – Grant Hill
PF – Terry Mills
C – Otis Thorpe


5) Milwaukee Bucks – 94-95 Rec. 34-48(9th in East)

The Bucks will only go as far as Vin Baker and Glenn Robinson take them. In the 94-95 NBA season, that meant missing the playoffs. However, Bucks fans are hopeful that with another years experience the will be just what the duo needs to get the franchise moving forward.

Milwaukee selected power forward Gary Trent with the 11th pick in the draft and promptly traded him to Portland for the #9 overall pick Shawn Respert. The Bucks are hoping the scoring combo guard from Michigan State can fill one of the two guard spots for years to come.

Player to Watch: G – Shawn Respert; The Bucks traded for Respert in hopes he can eventually start at one of the guard spots. For now they will look to him to be the first guard off the bench replacing Eric Murdock and back up either Lee Mayberry or Todd Day. If Respert lives up to his hype Milwaukee may have added another potent scorer to go with Baker and Robinson.

Projected Lineup:
PG – Lee Mayberry
SG – Todd Day
SF – Glenn Robinson
PF – Vin Baker
C – Eric Mobley

Southeast Division

1) Orlando Magic – 94-95 Rec. 57-25(Lost to Houston in NBA Finals)

The Orlando Magic enter the 95-96 season as many analyst pick to win the Eastern Conference for the 2nd straight season. Shaquille O’Neal and the Magic want redemption after being swept in the Finals by Houston.

While the core of the Magic remains the same you can expect to see one change from last season. Forward and three point specialist Dennis Scott moves into the starting lineup for Donald Royal who takes Scott’s place on the bench.

Player to Watch: SF – Dennis Scott; As long as Scott continues to shoot three pointers at a high clip he should relieve some pressure off Shaq. Opponents will have to decide whether to double the Diesel or leave 3D wide open outside.

Projected Lineup:
PG – Penny Hardaway
SG – Nick Anderson
SF – Dennis Scott
PF – Horace Grant
C – Shaquille O’Neal

2) Charlotte Hornets – 94-95 Rec. 50-32(Lost to Chicago in E.C. 1st round)

The Charlotte Hornets have what many consider to be the top young PF/C combo in the NBA. Alonzo Mourning and Larry Johnson led the Hornets to the 4th best record in the Eastern Conference, but they were quickly shown the way out of the playoffs by the more experienced Bulls.

Hersey Hawkins was traded this offseason for the more athletic Kendall Gill who played his first 3 seasons with the Hornets. Gill will once again team with Muggsy Bogues in the Hornets back court.

1993-94 Sixth Man Award Winner Dell Curry also returns to lead the Hornets bench squad.

Player to Watch: SG – Kendall Gill; Replacing Hawkins will be no easy task for Gill but most believe he will improve the Hornets overall. If he can match Hawkins production the Hornets should have no problem moving deeper in the playoffs this season.

Projected Lineup:
PG – Muggsy Bogues
SG – Kendall Gill
SF – Scott Burrell
PF – Larry Johnson
C – Alonzo Mourning


3) Atlanta Hawks – 94-95 Rec. 42-40(Lost to Pacers in E.C. 1st round)

The Hawks enter the 1995-96 looking improve on a 7th place finish. Mookie Blaylock, Steve Smith, Stacey Augmon, and Grant Long all return from last years team that lost to Indiana in the 1st round.

Atlanta used their 1st round draft pick to add depth to the front court by selecting Indiana forward Alan Henderson who will likely back up Long at the PF spot.

The Hawks seem to be stuck in the middle of the Eastern Conference playoff race every year but never make it to the top. If this team wants to break through the front office may have to make a few moves before they can do so.

Player to Watch: SG – Steve Smith; If Atlanta wants to be considered among the top teams in the Eastern Conference Smith will have to lead them there. Expect the Hawks to look for more offense from the 5th year guard. If he can handle the burden them the Hawks may prove to be a tougher opponent than many think.

Projected Lineup:
PG – Mookie Blaylock
SG – Steve Smith
SF – Stacey Augmon
PF – Grant Long
C – Andrew Lang


4) Miami Heat – 94-95 Rec. 32-50(10th in East)

Whatever their record is after the 95-96 season you can guarantee that the Miami Heat will have worked hard for it. How do I know this? Because the Miami Heat made the biggest acquisition of the NBA offseason. They hired Pat Riley as to be the next head coach.

Riley inherits a lineup that features scorer Glen Rice, point guard Bimbo Coles, and tough power forward Kevin Willis. Will any of these players be on the Heat after the season? No one knows, but you can expect Riley to shake things up and remake the team in his image. Don’t be surprised if the Heat have a whole new look before the All-Star break.

Player to Watch: SF – Glen Rice; While Rice is the Heat’s top offensive threat, Riley like to focus his teams on defense and an inside game. Unless Rice can show a tougher attitude and improved defense he may end up in Riley’s doghouse or another uniform before too long.

Projected Lineup:
PG – Bimbo Coles
SG – Rex Chapman
SF – Billy Owens
PF – Kurt Thomas
C – Kevin Willis

5) Washington Bullets – 94-95 Rec. 21-61(14th in East)

Bullets management and fans expected that after trading for Chris Webber and teaming him with former “Fab Five” running mate Juwan Howard would pay off in the win column. So far it has not.

Howard and Webber play essentially the same position and to add to that the Bullets drafted Rasheed Wallace giving the team 3 athletic power forwards who have a suspect post up game.

Joining the PF trio up front will be 7’7” Gheorghe Muresan who is starting to show improvement on both ends of the court.
With Scott Skiles gone from last years roster the Bullets have three new players fighting for minutes at PG. Robert Pack joins brother Mark and Brent Price in the competition for playing time. If healthy Mark Price seems to be the best bet to start, but don’t be surprised if his brother or Pack overtake him at some point.

Player to Watch: PF – Chris Webber; The Bullets gave up a lot to acquire the former rookie of the year, now they need him play up to the value they payed for him. Webber possess all the skills to be one the best PF’s in the NBA, but some wonder if he has the desire to put in the effort it takes to become great. If he does the Bullets may be a tough opponent before too long.

Projected Lineup:
PG – Mark Price
SG – Calbert Cheaney
SF – Juwan Howard
PF – Chris Webber
C – Gheorghe Muresan

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1995-96 NBA Western Conference Preview

Northwest Division:

1) Seattle SuperSonics – 94-95 Rec. 57-25(Lost to Lakers in W.C. 1st round)

The Seattle SuperSonics have been a great fast break team since Gary Payton and Shawn Kemp first teamed up from a thunderous alley-oop years ago. This offseason the Sonics made a move to improve their half court attack.

Seattle traded Kendall Gill to the Hornets for Hersey Hawkins who is a superior shooter. In combo with Kemp, who has reportedly been working on his post moves, the Sonics may be a dangerous team, no matter what tempo they play at.

Player to Watch: PF – Shawn Kemp; If the reports are true and Kemp has been working out hard this summer to improve his post game, he may be about to make what NBA analyst refer to as “the Leap.” When a player goes form very good to consistently great the is “the Leap.” Kemp has seemed to be on the verge of making “the Leap” for the past few seasons. If he finally takes that next step the Western Conference may have a new top team to contend with.

Projected Lineup:
PG – Gary Payton
SG – Hersey Hawkins
SF – Detlef Schrempf
PF – Shwan Kemp
C – Ervin Johnson

2) Portland Trail Blazers – 94-95 Rec. 44-38(Lost to Suns in W.C. 1st Round)

Last season saw the exit of a legend from Portland as Clyde Drexler was traded to the Houston Rockets. This season see another legend join Portland, but his legend hasn’t been written in English(atl least not yet).

Arvydas Sabonis has long been known as the “best” player to never to play in the NBA. While injuries have stolen much of his athleticism Sabonis will finally have a chance to show the NBA if hw has the game to compete with the worlds best. Expect him to come off the bench early on and back-up Chris Dudley.

Also gone are Blazers mainstays, Terry Porter, Jerome Kersey and Kevin Duckworth. The 1995-96 Portalnd Trail Blazers will have a very different look.

Portland traded their first round pick to Milwaukee for Gary Trent and use their other 1st rounder on guard Randolph Childress. However, Sabonis is the “rookie” everyone will have their eyes on.

Player to Watch: C – Arvydas Sabonis; If healthy and half as good as the stories and grainy VHS suggest Sabonis may finally break the curse of the Blazers big men(see Bill Walton/Sam Bowie). Even if he disappoints overall having another 7’3” 279 lb center isn’t exactly a bad thing.

Projected Lineup:
PG – Rod Strickland
SG – Aaron McKie
SF – Harvey Grant
PF – Clifford Robinson
C – Chris Dudley

3) Minnesota Timberwolves – 94-95 Rec. 21-61(12th in West)

Minnesota decide to gamble with their first round pick(5th overall). The T’Wolves took still a growing forward from Farragut Academy(high school) in Chicago. The young man’s name is Kevin Garnett.

Garnett possesses the height of a PF or C, with the skill of a SF. Once he stops growing and adds some weight he has the potential to be the best player in the league.

The rookie joins an increasingly larger group of forwards in Minnesota. The team already had Christian Laettner when they traded for Tom Gugliotta and drafted Garnett. They also signed veteran Sam Mitchell to help mentor the young forwards.

Player to Watch: SG – Isaiah Rider; Always unpredictable the T’Wolves hopes may rest on how interested Rider is in playing on a night to night basis. While not a great position to be as a franchise if they can reign him in a get him focused the Wolves will have a top 5 SG on their roster. If they cannot contain Rider, he may also derail the entire season.

Projected Lineup:
PG – Terry Porter
SG – Doug West
SF – Sam Mitchell
PF – Tom Gugliotta
C – Christian Laettner

4) Vancouver Grizzlies – Expansion Team

If asked to pick a “winner” of the expansion draft, Vancouver would be the obvious choice. Greg Anthony, Byron Scott, and Blue Edwards are all still decent NBA players. Add in 6th overall pick center Bryant “Big Country” Reeves and Vancouver has the makings on a decent NBA lineup.

Player to Watch: C – Bryant Reeves; If “Big Country”can live up to his moniker and play big, the Grizzlies have a cornerstone to build the new franchise on. If he turns out to be “small country” it will take a few years for the Vancouver team to get going.

Projected Lineup:
PG - Greg Anthony
SG - Blue Edwards
SF - Chris King
PF - Kenny Gattison
C - Bryant Reeves

Southwest Division:

1) Houston Rockets – 94-95 Rec. 47-35(Won 2nd straight NBA title)

As Houston head coach Rudy Tomjanovich said,”never under estimate the heart of a champion.”

Hakeem Olajuwon and the Rockets will be looking to make it three straight years with a title. Sure they needed Clyde Drexler to get them over top a 2nd time after a mediocre regular season, but now they have “the Glide” for a full season.

The usual cast of Rockets returns once again as they look to make a “three-peat.” Otis Thorpe and Vernon Maxwell have moved on but will be replaced fairly easily.

Player to Watch: SG – Clyde Drexler; Now that he helped Houston back to the mountain top, can he remain motivated for full season. If Drexler stays healthy there is no reason not to pick the Rockets to make a third consecutive trip to the finals.

Projected Lineup:
PG – Kenny Smith
SG – Clyde Drexler
SF – Robert Horry
PF – Chucky Brown
C – Hakeem Olajuwon

2) San Antonio Spurs – 94-95 Rec. 62-20(Lost to Rockets in W.C. Finals)

The Spurs had the best regular season record in 94-95 but fell short against the Rockets in the conference finals.

Last Seasons MVP David Robinson still captains the Spurs ship, along with Avery Johnson and Sean Elliott.

A major disruptive force was removed from the locker room when the Spurs traded Dennis Rodman to Chicago for Will Perdue. What effect this will have on the court remains to be seen but all signs point to nothing but good things for the Spurs.

Don’t be surprised if we get a rematch of division rivals San Antonio and Houston in the conference finals.

Player to Watch: C – David Robinson; It will be Robinson who ultimately decides the Spurs fate. After winning the NBA MVP last season, Olajuwon thumped him the playoffs. The Adrimal will have to redeem himself if the Spurs are going to past Houston.

Projected Lineup:
PG - Avery Johnson
SG - Vinny Del Negro
SF - Sean Elliott
PF - Greg Anderson
C - David Robinson

3) Utah Jazz – 94-95 Rec. 60-22(Lost to Rockets in W.C. 1st round)

It would be hard to find someone to argue that John Stockton and Karl Malone are not the best pick and roll combo in the NBA today. The pair continues to put up big time numbers, as long as it’s the regular season.

Once again the Jazz were sent home early after losing to Houston in the first round of the Western Conference playoffs.

If Stockton and Malone could carry their regular season success into the playoffs they would likely make the Finals. However, until proven otherwise it is hard to pick them to make a deep run in the playoffs.

Gone from last years playoff roster are Blue Edwards, John Crotty, and Tom Chambers. Replacing them for the Jazz are Chris Morris, Howard Eisley, and Greg Foster. The new additions should make the Jazz slightly better but not enough to get past the West’s top teams.

Player to Watch: SG – Jeff Hornacek; With Stockton and Malone established as the one, two, punch for the Utah offense, Hornacek becomes the second/third option. His ability to get open off screens and knock down jump shots is key to Utah’s success. If Hornacek can score consistently teams will be left with fewer options when defending Stockton and Malone.

Projected Lineup:
PG – John Stockton
SG – Jeff Hornacek
SF – David Benoit
PF – Karl Malone
C - Felton Spencer

4) Denver Nuggets 94-95 Rec. 41-41(Lost to Spurs in W.C. 1st round)

While a few Denver Nuggets have moved on in the offseason the core of last years playoff squad returns for the 95-96 season.

Rodney Rogers was traded along with 15th pick Brent Barry to the Clippers for #2 pick Antonio McDyess.

McDyess will likely join Dikembe Mutombo, Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf, and Bryant Stith in the starting lineup. Jalen Rose may get the final starting spot, but Dale Ellis and Reggie Williams are also possibilities as head coach Bernie Bickerstaff has hinted that he likes Rose’s versatility coming off the bench.

Player to Watch: PF – Antonio McDyess; The situation seems perfect Denver. Coming a .500 record and playoff appearance they add the #2 pick in the draft at a need position. If Mcdyess pans out, there is no reason the think the Nuggets won’t be an better team than last season. If he doesn’t they still have strong core and should remain competitive.

Projected Lineup:
PG - Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf
SG – Bryant Stith
SF – Jalen Rose
PF – Antonio McDyess
C – Dikembe Mutombo

5) Dallas Mavericks – 94-95 Rec. 36-46(13th in West)

The Mavericks have become a trendy sleeper pick to make the playoffs in NBA circles. The young trio of Jason Kidd, Jamal Mashburn and Jim Jackson has some analyst drooling over the future of the team.

However, I don’t think the Mavs are there yet. Defense is a major weakness and even with the “3 J’s” they don’t have the offense to make up the difference.

Look for a slight improvement but not a playoff appearance just yet.

Player to Watch: PG – Jason Kidd; Kidd is the straw that stirs the Mavericks drink and will ultimately decide the teams fate. If he can incorporate the two other J’s and improve on defense the Mavs stand an outside at the 8th seed in the West.

Player to Watch:
PG – Jason Kidd
SG – Jim Jackson
SF – Jamal Mashburn
PF - Popeye Jones
C – Lorenzo Williams

Pacific Division:

1) Phoenix Suns – 94-95 Rec. 59-23(Lost to Rockets in W.C. Semis)

Phoenix finished with 2nd best record in the Western Conference last season, without a healthy Kevin Johnson. With Johnson back and healthy and the addition of Hot Rod Williams the Suns should contend for the West once again.

The only key loss for the Suns is Dan Majerle who was traded for Williams. Replacing Majerle’s scoring will fall to rookie Michael Finley who Phoenix took with the 21st pick.

Charles Barkley stills leads the Suns offense as usual and is looking to return to the finals for the first time since his MVP 92-93 season. Phoenix has a lot of veteran depth up front with Barkley, Williams, A.C. Green, Wayman Tisdale, and Danny Manning.

Player to Watch: PG - Kevin Johnson; If KJ can return to his previous form the Suns may be even better than last season. If he has lost a step or isn’t 100% the Suns will still be a playoff team but won’t contend for a title.

Projected Lineup:
PG - Kevin Johnson
SG - Wesley Person
SF - Michael Finley
PF - Charles Barkley
C - Hot Rod Williams

2) Los Angeles Lakers – 94-95 Rec, 48-34(Lost to Spurs in W.C. Semis)

The Lakers lineup is largely unchanged from last years conference semifianlist. Nick Van Exel, Eddie Jones, Cedric Ceballos, Elden Campbell and Vlade Divac all return to the purple and gold.

The last tie to the Showtime era Kurt Rambis retired after last season, making the start of a new Lakers era.

But just as Showtime seems a thing of the past there is whisper is the wind, and if you listen closely it almost seems to say……Magic.

Player to Watch: SF – Cedric Ceballos; The Lakers leading scorer will once be asked to lead what amounts to one of the most balanced attacks in league. But it is Ceballos’s ability to create his own shot that the Lakers will need when the offense breaks down.

Projected Lineup:
PG – Nick Van Exel
SG – Eddie Jones
SF – Cedric Ceballos
PF – Elden Campbell
C – Vlade Divac

3) Sacramento Kings - 94-95 Rec. 39-43(9th in West)

The Kings came up just short of playoffs last season. While most of that squad remains a few key changes were made.

Gone is Spud Webb, replaced by rookie Tyus Edney who the Kings selected in the 2nd round of the draft. Expect Edney to take over the starting role from Bobby Hurley before too long.

Sacramento also drafted Corliss Williamson with their first round pick. Exactly how Williams fits in with Brian Grant, Byron Houston, and Michael Smith remains to be seen.

Player to Watch: SG – Mitch Richmond; With few real scoring options Sacramento counts on Richmond to provide the offense. As long as he can continue to do so the Kings are sleeper to sneak into the final playoff spot out west.

Projected Lineup:
PG – Bobby Hurley
SG – Mitch Richmond
SF – Walt Williams
PF – Brian Grant
C - Olden Ploynice

4) Golden State Warriors – 94-95 Rec. 26-56(11th in the West)

After running Chris Webber out of town, Don Nelson was told his services were no longer required by the Warriors. Rick Adelman takes over for the coming season and hopers get the Warriors back on a winning track.

Winners of the Draft Lottery Golden State took Maryland forward Joe Smith with the top pick. Warriors fans hope Smith can replace what the team lost in the Webber trade.

However, more rumors of discontent are coming out of the Warriors locker room, this time the focus is Tim Hardaway and his alleged unhappiness with Warriors management bringing in B.J. Armstrong.

Adelman will need steady veterans like Chris Mullins and Jerome Kersey to back him up if he hopes to right the ship.

Player to Watch: PG – Tim Hardaway; When healthy and happy Hardaway is one of the NBA’s top point guards. If he can settle is dispute with management and focus on basketball the Warriors have an outside chance at the playoffs.

Projected Lineup:
PG - Tim Hardaway
SG - Latrell Sprewell
SF - Chris Mullin
PF - Joe Smith
C - Rony Seikaly

5) Los Angeles Clippers – 94-95 Rec. 17-65(13th in West)

The Clippers had a terrible 94-95 season. They missed out on the top draft pick and took Antonio McDyess with the #2 pick. They then traded him for Brent Barry and Rodney Rogers. Such is life in Clipperland.

But with Loy Vaught and new addition Brian Williams(trade with DEN) the Clippers felt they were set at the PF position. Which is reasonable, unless you are the Clippers.

Most of last years roster returns with Barry and Rogers the only additions of note.

Player to Watch: SG – Brent Barry; Since he was traded for the #2 pick, Clippers fans have high expectations for the son of hall of famer Rick Barry. Those are big shoes to fill and I don’t think Brent has any chance of living up to expectations, especially while wearing a Clippers jersey.

Projected Lineup:
PG – Pooh Richardson
SG – Malik Sealy
SF – Lamond Murray
PF – Loy Vaught
C – Brian Williams

[qpc123]

BREAKING NEWS

Before we get to our opening night recap we trade to report. In a blockbuster deal the Miami Heat have traded Glen Rice, Matt Geiger, Khalid Reeves, and a 1st round draft pick in 1996 to the Charlotte Hornets in exchange for Alonzo Mourning, Pete Myers, and LeRon Ellis.

Most NBA insiders thought Riley would make a move to reshape the Heat's roster to his liking. In Mourning Riley now has his center piece to build around much like he did with Patrick Ewing in New York.

For the Hornets, some are wondering what led them to tinker with roster that was coming together well at the end of last season. Rice does provide the Hornets with some much needed outside scorer and Geiger should be serviceable at center along with Parish.

Now onto the games...

A light schedule on opening night featuring just three games.

October 30, 1995
	@
Washington Bullets		Cleveland Cavaliers

With Chris Webber out of the line-up with a separated shoulder the Washington Bullets shorthanded against the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Bullets struggled to score early and the Cavs took advantage with a 31-18 first quarter. From there it was all Cleveland as they won by eleven 98-87.

Washington Wizards (0-1) at Cleveland Cavaliers (1-0)
Oct 30, 1995 1 2 3 4 Final Washington 18 16 21 32 87 Cleveland 31 22 22 23 98 Top Performers Washington Bullets Robert Pack - 19 pts, 8 ast, 3 stl Calbert Cheaney - 16 pts, 6 reb, 4 ast Cleveland Cavaliers Terrell Brandon - 24 pts, 9 ast Chris Mills - 21 pts, 4 reb, 2 blk	Team Stats Comparison WAS CLE FG Made-Att 38-45 37-79 3PT Made-Att 3-14 11-23 FT Made-Att 8-10 13-17 Rebounds 44 48 Assists 23 28 Turnovers 9 14 Steals 8 4 Blocks 5 5

October 30, 1995
	@
Dallas Mavericks		Los Angeles Lakers

Despite a terrible third quarter in which they scored just 6 points, the L.A. Lakers managed to hold off the young Dallas Mavericks for a 5 point win. Cedric Ceballos led the Lakers to victory with 22 points and 12 rebounds.

Dallas Mavericks (0-1) at Los Angeles Lakers (1-0)
Oct 30, 1995 1 2 3 4 Final Dallas 16 22 15 27 80 Los Angeles 21 30 6 28 85 Top Performers Dallas Mavericks Jason Kidd - 19 pts, 7 reb, 8 ast, 3 stl Jamal Mashburn - 18 pts, 5 reb Los Angeles Lakers Cedric Ceballos - 22 pts, 12 reb Vlade Divac - 14 pts, 10 reb, 6 ast, 2 blk	Team Stats Comparison DAL LAL FG Made-Att 27-78 37-86 3PT Made-Att 7-21 1-14 FT Made-Att 17-24 10-14 Rebounds 44 57 Assists 20 23 Turnovers 15 15 Steals 4 6 Blocks 2 4

October 30, 1995
	@
Boston Celtics		Miami Heat

Alonzo Mourning made it to Miami in time make his first start for the Heat. He scored 17 points, grabbed 13 rebounds, and blocked 2 shots, but it wasn't enough as the Celtics ran away with a 119-90 win. Dee Brown led the Boston attack with 27 points.

Boston Celtics (1-0) at Miami Heat (0-1)
Oct 30, 1995 1 2 3 4 Final Boston 31 37 24 37 119 Miami 25 15 27 23 90 Top Performers Boston Celtics Dee Brown - 27 pts, 7 reb Dino Radja - 15 pts, 11 reb, 2 blk Miami Heat Bimbo Coles - 19 pts, 3 ast Alonzo Mourning - 17 pts, 13 reb, 2 stl, 2 blk	Team Stats Comparison BOS MIA FG Made-Att 37-73 33-76 3PT Made-Att 18-28 4-11 FT Made-Att 27-36 20-28 Rebounds 43 37 Assists 21 15 Turnovers 13 13 Steals 5 11 Blocks 5 2

The NBA kicks into full gear tomorrow night with 9 games including the Chicago Bulls and both expansions teams.

[qpc123]

Matchup Preview | October 31, 1995
	@
Sacramento Kings (0-0, 0-0 Away)		Chicago Bulls (0-0, 0-0 Home)
Projected Starters Bobby Hurley Point Guard Ron Harper Mitch Richmond Shooting Guard Michael Jordan Walt Williams Small Forward Scottie Pippen Brain Grant Power Forward Dennis Rodman Olden Polynice Center Bill Wennington Game Notes Sacramento won both meetings last season. Luc Longley is suspended for the game and was fined $7,500 for a fight with Chris Webber(also suspended and fined)of the Washington Bullets in an Oct. 19th pre-season game. Bill Wennington gets the start in Longley's place.

[qpc123]

Jordan scores 32 as Bulls win season opener over Sacramento

CHICAGO -- The Chicago Bulls gave their fans a glimpse of the balance, depth and defense they hope will take them all the way to the NBA title this season.

Michael Jordan had 32 points, 4 rebounds and five assists Tuesday night, leading the Bulls to a 98-88 season-opening victory over the Sacramento Kings.

Jordan orchestrated a versatile offense for the Bulls, who also played tenacious defense and dominate the Kings on the offensive glass.

"This is a team that gives us a lot of trouble," Jordan said, "but we played well enough to get the win."

Mitch Richmond was likely the "trouble" Jordan was referring to as he scored a game high 33 points for the Kings.

Offseason addition Dennis Rodman did exactly what he was brought in to do, rebound. The Worm grabbed 15 rebounds and scored four points in his debut for the Bulls.

Rodman was pleased by the team effort.

"We worked very hard defensively and we played together as a group," he said. "We just had so many weapons to use and we had that talent that we need to win."

The Bulls were in control of the game virtually from the start, but the Kings briefly made it interesting when they cut the deficit to 92-88 late in the forth quarter. However, Scottie Pippen hit a 3, followed by a Jordan three, that gave the Bulls the 10 point win.

Pippen scored 27 points with 4 rebounds and 6 assists.

Up next for the Bulls is a match-up with central division rival Cleveland. The Cavs are 1-0 after an opening night win over the Bullets.

Sacramento Kings at Chicago Bulls
Oct 31, 1995	1ST	2ND	3RD	4TH	SCORE
Sacramento (0-1)	18	26	19	25	88
Chicago (1-0)	31	22	19	26	98

Sacramento Kings
STARTERS	MIN	FGM-A	3PM-A	FTM-A	REB	AST	STL	BLK	TO	PTS
Brian Grant, PF	36	6-11	0-0	6-8	7	0	1	1	1	18
Walt Williams, SF	39	3-12	0-2	5-5	4	2	0	0	0	11
Olden Polynice, C	33	1-6	0-0	0-0	8	0	1	0	2	2
Mitch Richmond, SG	38	13-21	0-0	7-7	5	1	2	0	1	33
Bobby Hurley, PG	28	0-7	0-0	2-2	0	4	4	0	2	2
BENCH	MIN	FGM-A	3PM-A	FTM-A	REB	AST	STL	BLK	TO	PTS
Michael Smith, PF	22	4-7	0-0	0-0	5	3	0	0	0	8
Sarunas Marciulionis, SG	15	3-8	0-1	0-0	0	3	1	0	0	6
Duane Causwell, C	6	2-2	0-0	0-0	2	0	1	0	0	4
Tyus Edney, PG	14	1-2	0-1	0-0	3	5	0	0	0	2
Tyrone Corbin, SF	14	1-5	0-1	0-0	4	2	0	0	0	2
TEAM TOTALS		34-81	0-5	20-22	38	20	10	1	6	88

Chicago Bulls
STARTERS	MIN	FGM-A	3PM-A	FTM-A	REB	AST	STL	BLK	TO	PTS
Dennis Rodman, PF	36	2-2	0-0	0-0	15	3	1	0	2	4
Scottie Pippen, SF	37	10-20	2-3	5-8	4	6	0	0	4	27
Bill Wennington, C	25	2-5	0-0	0-0	6	0	0	0	0	4
Michael Jordan, SG	39	13-26	1-1	5-5	4	5	0	0	2	32
Ron Harper, PG	27	1-7	0-2	2-4	8	2	0	0	2	4
BENCH	MIN	FGM-A	3PM-A	FTM-A	REB	AST	STL	BLK	TO	PTS
Jud Buechler, SF	13	3-4	3-4	0-0	2	1	0	0	0	9
Toni Kukoc, SF	20	3-5	0-0	2-2	3	2	1	0	2	8
Steve Kerr, PG	23	3-6	2-4	0-0	1	1	0	0	1	8
Jason Caffey, PF	9	1-1	0-0	0-0	3	1	0	0	0	2
Randy Brown, PG	4	0-0	0-0	0-0	1	0	0	0	0	0
Dickey Simpkins, PF	12	0-1	0-0	0-0	2	1	0	0	0	0
TEAM TOTALS		38-77	8-14	14-19	49	22	2	0	13	98

Officials: Bill Kennedy, Keith McClellan
Attendance: 23,862

[beast10]

This is great...!
Keep it up

[qpc123]

NBA Scoreboard - Oct. 31, 1995
Sunday's Games	Hi Passing	Hi Rushing	Hi Receiving
Nuggets 104 @ 76ers 98	M. Abdul-Rauf - DEN - 36	C. Weatherspoon - PHI - 9	J. Rose - DEN - 7
Warriors 128 @ Suns 135	K. Johnson - PHX - 38	A.C. Green - PHX - 13	T. Hardaway - GSW - 12
Pacers 103 @ Raptors 107	D. Stoudamire - TOR - 29	A. Davis - IND - 8	M. Jackson - IND - 8
Mavericks 85 @ Jazz 121	J. Hornacek - UTA - 28	L. Williams - DAL - 12	J. Stockton - UTA - 9
Rockets 93 @ Pistons 92	T. Mills - DET - 26	G. Hill - DET - 12	K. Smith - HOU - 9
Grizzlies 95 @ Clippers 89	K. Gattison - VAN - 18	B. Williams - LAC - 11	G. Anthony - VAN - 10
Lakers 89 @ Trail Blazers 105	R. Strickland - POR - 24	C. Dudley - POR - 18	R. Strickland - POR - 8

Quote of the Night: When asked how many provinces there are
in Canada, Tony Massenburg (Tor) asked back: "What's a province?"