Post by sagapolutele50 on Jun 28, 2009 17:37:28 GMT -5
Heres a look at the players comings and goings from the teams in the UOSLR. I hope I got most of it right, if not consider it a typo hehehe..
Here it goes boys, sorry no pics or sparklies!!!
EASTERN CONFERENCE
Atlantic Division
Boston Celtics
Additions:
Derek Anderson (7th pick)
Tariq Abdul-Wahad (19th pick)
David Wesley (via FA)
Corey Beck (via FA)
Michael Hawkins (via FA)
Subtractions:
Bill Laimbeer
Jerome Lane
Alan Henderson
Otis Smith
Doug West
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Jeff Hornacek / SG - Derek Anderson / SF - Tariq Abdul-Wahad / PF - Armen Gilliam / C - Zydrunas Ilgauskas
This team has a nice look of experience and youth with it to start the season. They still have All Star guard Jeff Hornacek at PG (who is on the trade block), youngsters Derek Anderson and Tariq Andul-wahad at SG and SF. These two, if they can develop over the next few seasons will form a nice trio with Big Z in the middle. Armen Gilliam, who is 33 and prob on his last legs, will be asked to do alot of work down low, but will provide some solid def and inside scoring for the Celtics. Last season was the first time they missed the playoffs and have a season or so before they will see themselves back in there. If their 1st round picks dont do well to start off, there are some wiley veterans in David Wesley, Terry Porter ready to step in.
Miami Heat
Additions:
Darrell Armstrong (via FA)
Detlef Schrempf (via FA)
Popeye Jones (via FA)
Bison Dele (via FA)
Cedric Ceballos (via FA)
Ed Pinckney (via FA)
Subtractions:
Corey Beck (Celtics)
Nate Mcmillan
Rickey Pierce ( Retired)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Darell Armstrong / SG - Kobe Bryant / SF - Jalen Rose / PF - Karl Malone / C - Benoit Benjamin
The defending champs come into the season with alot of new faces but with the starting lineup virtually intact. Training Camps saw the veterans take a few hits in a few places but their youngsters, Jalen Rose and Kobe Bryant had nice improvements in their individual games. They still have playoff MVP Karl Malone who is ready for another season and signed Hornets PG Darrell Armstrong to the MLE. This was a key signing considering Drazen took a hit in his handling this off season and could find himself coming off the bench. They have nice depth in Drazen Petrovic, Loy Vaught, Tyrone Corbin, Ed Pinkney on the bench and could make their way back into the finals (Although a big trade in Washington could hinder their progression)
New Jersey Nets
Additions:
Chauncy Billups (3rd pick)
Thurl Bailey (Trade - Clippers)
Isaih Thomas (Trade - Clippers)
Kevin Willis (Trade- Clippers)
Darnell Robinson (Trade - Clippers)
Sammie Haley (re-signed)
Robert Horry (via FA)
Michael Finley (via FA)
Subtractions:
John Williams (Kings)
Chuck Person (Sonics)
Sean Elliot (Hornets)
Greg Minor
BJ Armstrong (Bullets)
Nick Van Exel (Trade)
Eddie Jones (Trade)
Juwan Howard (Trade)
David Benoit (Contract buy-out)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Chauncey Billups / SG - Michael Finley / SF - Robert Horry / PF - Kevin Willis / C - Zeljko Rebraca
The Nets are in full rebuild and have had a busy off season. They started off by dealing their three starters Nick Van Exel, Eddie Jones and Juwon Howard for the 3rd pick in Chauncey Billups and a host of expiring players. During FA they acquired the services of Michael Finley and Robert Horry, both of whom will form a nice trio with Billups. They are in desperate need of a big man, but probably will look to this upcoming draft or FA to find one. Willis and Rebraca will be short term relief, but dont look to them being in the starting lineup for long.
New York Knicks
Additions:
Tony Massenburg (via FA)
Chris Smith (via FA)
Dana Barros (via FA)
Scott Brooks (via FA)
Doug Christie (via FA)
Steve Kerr (via FA)
Subtractions:
Robert Pack
Mark Bryant (Pistons)
Willie Burton
Adonis Jordan
Ken Norman
Reggie Williams
Sam Bowie (retired)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Michael Adams / SG - Reggie Miller / SF - Ron Harper / PF - Dennis Rodman / C - Alejandro Camby
The Knicks had their best season in franchise history, notching up 52 wins behind the play of their dynamic back court duo of Reggie Miller and Michael Adams. This season they have a the same starting lineup with the addition of Doug Christie, Tony Massenberg, Scott Brooks and Dana Barros to bolster their roster. Training camps have not treated them too kindly this offseason, but they are still good enough to get to the playoffs and could go further. Alejandro Camby could find himself on the bench with Massenberg and Campbell both maintaining their defensive awareness and with Cambys taking a dip.
Orlando Magic
Additions:
Keith Van Horn (6th pick)
Yinka Dare (trade - Sonics)
Reggie Geary (Trade - Sonics)
Richard Keene (Trade - Sonics)
Anthony Parker (22nd pick via trade - Sonics)
God Shamgod ( 2nd round pick 4)
Jaque Vaughn ( 2nd round pick 18)
Subtractions:
Michael Williams (Bullets)
Kenny Smith (Hornets)
Luther Wright (Clippers)
Ledell Eckles( Kings)
Dell Curry (Pistons)
Penny Hardaway (76ers)
Bo Outlaw (Nuggets)
Antoine Carr
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Haywood Workman / SG - Billy Owens / SF - Keith Van Horn / PF - Rasheed Wallace / C - Sharone Wright
Things were looking bright for the Magic this offseason, that was until Penny left them and signed with the 76ers leaviing a hole at the SG position. Anthony Parker was drafted to fill that void but he has gone overseas to ply his trade in europe for as season and could see Billy Owens playing there in the meantime until they find one. Their front court shows alot of potential with Sharone Wright , Rasheed Wallace ( who improved his scoring and handling) and Keith Van Horn ( who needs to work on his def but can do everything else well). Maybe God Shamgod or Jacque Vaughn could play there, who knows but its a question fans in Orlando are wanting answered.
Philadelphia 76ers
Additions:
Stephen Jackson ( 4th pick)
Danny Fortson ( 16th pick)
Pat Burke ( 27th pick)
Damon Jones (29th pick)
Penny Hardaway ( via FA)
Gary Grant (via FA)
Subtractions:
Bison Dele (Heat)
Lawrence Funderburke
Willie Anderson
Chris Dudley (Bullets)
Kevin Gamble
Steve Kerr (Knicks)
George Lynch
Doc Rivers (Hawks)
Scott Skiles (Sonics)
Spud Webb (Pistons)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Elliot Perry / SG - Penny Hardaway / SF - Stephen Jackson / PF - Jermaine Oneal / C - Pat Burke
The 6ers were had the projected 2nd pick going into the lottery but came out with the 4th pick in the 97 draft. The GM could be heard from his booth and was quoted as saying "Cool. I get a pile of shit with this pick. " That pile of shit was Stephen Jackson who has probably had one of the better training camps compared to his fellow rookies. They also acquired Penny with a very lucrative deal who along with Jermaine Oneal make a ver formiddable SG/SF/PF combination. Elliot Perry had a remarkable TC where his handles and def improved making him a good candidate for starting PG. Rookie Pat burke provides the defense down low that Dragan doesnt have. They dont have their pick this year so the 6ers will be looking for a march to the playoffs and could do so, however their depth could stop that march.
Washington Bullets
Additions:
Chris Webber (Re-signed)
Scott Pollard ( 21st pick)
Mookie Blaylock (via FA)
Michael Williams (via FA)
B.J. Armstrong (via FA)
Hakeem Olajuwon (Trade - Rockets)
Clyde Drexler (Trade - Rockets)
Dominique Wilkins (Trade - Rockets)
Dan Majerle ( waivers)
Chris Dudley ( waivers)
Subtractions:
Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf (Trade - Rockets)
Lindsay Hunter (Trade - Rockets)
Avery Johnson (Trade - Rockets)
Mario Bennett (Trade - Rockets)
Derek Harper (Trade - Rockets)
Eric Piatowski (Trade - Rockets)
Jevon Crudup (Trade - Rockets)
John Starks (Jazz)
Jeff Webster ( Sonics)
Melvin Robinson
Ed Pinkney (Heat)
Corliss Williamson (Contract Buyout - Warriors)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Mookie Blaylock / SG - Clyde Drexler / SF - Dominique Wilkins / PF -Chris Webber / C - Hakeem Olajuwon
I would like to introduce you to the 1998 UOSLR champions lol. The trigger was pulled right after TCs and could possibly see the Bullets as the next champions this season. On paper it looks like that, but they still have to go out and do it. They now have a lineup that is built to win now, who knows how long the Glide, the human highlight film and the dream have left in their tanks, but we do know they are good to go for one more season. They have good depth with Michael Williams, BJ Armstong, Scott Pollard and Dale Davis off the bench. Firm Favourites this year to win it all, but they do have the Heat to go through 1st and have an injury free season.
Central Division
Atlanta Hawks
Additions:
Sam Cassell (re-signed)
Pervis Ellison (trade - Grizzlies)
Walter McCarty (via FA)
Doc Rivers (via FA)
Ervin Johnson (via FA)
Donnie Boyce (re-signed)
Tim Legler (re-signed)
Damon Bailey (re-signed)
Robert Horry ( via trade with Nets)
Isaiah Thomas/Kevin Willis ( via trade with Nets)
Alvin Williams ( 2nd round pick 22)
Subtractions:
Adam Keefe
Danny Ferry
Chris Mullin (trade - Grizzlies)
Priest Lauderdale (trade - Grizzlies)
Johnny Newman (trade - Nets)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Sam Cassell / SG - Vernon Maxwell / SF -Robert Horry / PF - Pervis Ellison / C - Wayman Tisdale
Re-signing Sam Cassell was their top priority and he did so once the season was over. They didnt have their pick so acquiring players was done so via FA and trades with the Nets and Grizzlies. The Hawks traded Chris Mullin and Preist Lauderdale away for Pervis Ellison and Johnny Newman to the Grizzlies. When posting his trade, Chipper was quoted as saying "Getting a PF to match up with the Eastern Bigs is nice. Tisdale and Pervis down low I like a lot. " They then moved the newly aquired Newman to the Nets for Robert Horry who will come in at SF and start straight away. This gives the Hawks a much more balanced lineup, however, if they are to suffer injuries, Earvin Johnson, Jerome Kersey, Kevin Willis and Tim Legler are their only back ups worth of time.
Charlotte Hornets:
Additions:
Shawn Bradley (re-signed)
Bubba Wells ( 24th pick)
Muggsy Bogues (re-signed)
Dino Radja (re-signed)
Byron Russell (via FA)
Kenny Smith (via FA)
John Salley(re-signed)
Sean Elliot (waivers)
Derrick Mckey (waivers)
Eric Murdoch (waivers)
Chris Gatling (waivers)
Subtractions:
Pop Eye Jones (Heat)
Terry Cummings (Retired)
David Wesley (Celtics)
Kareem Townes
Albeto Angulo
Darrell Armstrong (Heat)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG -Muggsy Bogues / SG -Bryon Russell / SF - Larry Johnson / PF -John Salley / C - Alonzo Mourning
The Hornets have a 9 man roster and are currently in the process of trialling a few free agents to fill out their roster. They managed to re-sign Dino Radja, Shawn Bradley, John Salley, and Muggsy Bogues as well as adding Kenny Smith and Byron Russell to their lineup. Their strengths lie in the play of Alonzo Mourning and Larry Johnson who carry the team. Help will be needed from Muggsy, Salley, Russell and Bradley to help the Hornets get back to the Conference Semis and hopefully beyond. News just in, Elliot, Murdoch, McKey, Gatling have all signed with the Hornets in hopes of winning a title this year!!
Chicago Bulls:
Additions:
Igancio Rodriguez(re-signed)
Brevin Knight (20th pick)
Tony Battie (via trade with Mavs)
Donnie Boyce (via FA)
Odell Hodge ( 2nd round pick 21)
Subtractions:
Chris Gatling (Hornets)
James Worthy
Kevin Ollie (Warriors)
Corey Alexander
Johnny Dawkins
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG -Etienne Preira / SG - Derrick Fisher / SF - Adrian Griffin / PF - Tony Battie / C - Dikembe Mutumbo
Hot on their success from last season where they made the Conference finals on the back of Etienne Preira and Dikembe Mutumbo, the Chicago Bulls return virtually intact and ready to take on the best the East has to offer. Tony Battie comes in at PF to take over Eric Montross and provid another defensive rebounder down low to compliment Mutumbo. Preira starts the season at PG with Fisher moving to the SG spot and Adrian Griffin in at SF. Tiger was a lil worried with the lack of development from Preira considering all the time that has gone into making him such a talented player. They look good this season and will go as far as Deke and Preira will take them.
Cleveland Cavs
Additions:
Tim Duncan (1st pick )
Laphonso Ellis (re-signed)
Victor Page ( 2nd round pick 5)
Subtractions:
Giorgis Sigalas
Tony Miller
Scott Williams
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Kenny Anderson / SG - Nick Anderson / SF – Ed Obannon / PF –Laphonso Ellis / C - Tim Duncan
The Cavs caught a lucky break moving from the projected 5th pick to move up to the top spot. With that pick they chose Tim Duncan out of Wake Forest. Just like that they go from lotto to playoffs with the acquisition of Duncan. He will most likely move to C with Laphonso Ellis playing at the PF spot. The Cavs have an abundance of talent in their front court with Ellis and Duncan joining Camby and Ben Wallace up front. Ed O`bannon is progressing nicely and will provide good depth for the Cavs. Kenny Anderson, Rex Chapman and Nick Anderson round out a very talented roster. Things are looking rosey in Cleveland!!
Detroit Pistons
Additions:
Charles Oakley (Trade with Clippers)
A.C. Green (Trade with Clippers)
Mark Bryant (via FA)
Dell Curry (via FA)
Keith Booth (12 pick)
Kebu Stewart ( 2nd round pick 11)
Spudd Webb ( waivers)
Subtractions:
Dwayne Morton
Scott Brooks (Knicks)
Adrian Caldwell
Chris Whitney
Dan Majerle (Hornets)
Terrel Diaz-Miguel (Twolves)
Jake Hiscock ( Retired)
Paul Mokeski (Retired)
Rick Smits ( Trade with Clippers)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Brent Barry / SG - Tony Dumas / SF - Keith Booth / PF -Kebu Stewart / C -Charles Oakley
The Pistons are continuing their rebuild and have recently traded Rik Smits for the expiring contracts of Charles Oakley and AC Green in an effort to free up some cap for next season for a big name FA and a top pick to build around Brent Barry and Keith Booth. Brent Barry and Booth are still quite young and would be nice pieces to build around. This could be a long yeaer for the Piston faithful, but if they can be patient with their team, they could net a nice player at the end of the year and look forward to good times ahead. But dont think that Oakley is going to let this team lay down and take it up the arse, they will still be competitive!!!
Indiana Pacers:
Additions:
Stacey Augmon (via FA)
Jayson Williams (via FA)
Calbert Cheaney (waivers)
Kevin Edwards (waivers)
Subtractions:
Sam Gouda
J.R Reid
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Pedrag Danilovic / SG - Latrell Spreewell / SF - Jamal Mashburn / PF - Luc Longley / C - Stanley Roberts
The Indiana Pacers return with 2 new additions to the roster. Stacey Augmon and Jayson Williams were both acquired via FA and will provide the Pacers with depth at every position. They look like a tough team to beat and have had the benefit of a TC that hasnt seen major changes in the teams look. Antoine Walker however, hasnt been able to bloom as much due to the fact he is playing behind Mashburn but he's only 20 so he could still improve. Look to the Pacers making some noise this season and possibly pushing for 50 wins this season.
Milwaukee Bucks
Additions:
Marko Milic (13th pick)
Vin Baker (via FA)
Gheorghe Muresan (Re-signed)
Chucky Atkins (Re-signed)
Subtractions:
Gary Grant ( 76ers)
Calbert Cheaney (Pacers)
Rick Fox
Michael Finley (Nets)
Lasalle Thompson (Retired)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Allen Iverson / SG - Ray Allen / SF - Grant Hill / PF - Antonio Mcdyess / C - Vin Baker
One of the youngest and most taented starting lineups in UOSLR could possibly end up being one of the most scariest lineups in history. The oldest player on the roster is Muresan at 26 years old and still getting better. They lost Finely to the Nets in FA but acquired a nice big man in Vin Baker, who comes in averaging 17 pts and 10 rebs from last season. They could either start him at C or have him come off the bench behind Muresan and Dyess. Iverson has had a solid TC coming in to the 1998 season, improving on his outside shooting, handles and def. His back court partner Ray Allen is still finding his feet and could be a year off from exploding in TCs. Grant Hill and Dyess look nice and provide the foundation for a talented young team.
Toronto Raptors
Additions:
Bobby Jackson ( 17th pick)
Aaron Williams (waivers)
Henry James (waivers)
Amal Mckaskill ( waivers)
Subtractions:
Corie Blount ( Mavericks)
Dennis Scott (Knicks)
Vin Baker (Bucks)
Doug Christie (Knicks)
Russell Larson
Michael Hawkins (Celtics)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Damon Stoudamire / SG - Tony Delk / SF - Michael Jordan / PF - Brian Grant / C - Terry Mills
The Raptors have had a terrible offseason, losing Baker and not being able to sign anyone in FA. They had a 1st round exit in the playoffs losing to eventual winners Miami in a 7 game series. Losing Baker has hurt the most, but moving Grant to PF and Terry Mills to C should hopefully balance that loss out. Depth is a main problem up front with only Michelak being the sole front court back up. MJ is still there and is still good enough to give the Raptors a chance at making the playoffs. Tony Delk, Stoudnamire, Grant and Mills have to step and help him out, or they could miss out. Pooh Richardson has found a new lease on life and could unseat Stoudamire at starting PG if hes not carefull. A season of uncertainty ahead for the Raptors, how long will Jordan stay in a Toronto Uniform? Only time will tell..
WESTERN CONFERENCE
Midwest Division
Dallas Mavericks
Additions:
Harvey Grant (re-signed)
Corie Blount (via FA)
Subtractions:
Douglas Schenk
Jayson Williams (Pacers)
Tom Gugliotta (Clippers)
Eric Murdoch (Hornets)
Tony Battie (15th pick traded to the Bulls)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - John Stockton / SG - Mitch Richmond / SF - Glen Rice / PF - Shawn Kemp / C - Horace Grant
The Mavs have a very experienced look to it and will be looking at making a run at the conference finals this time around. They need to stay healthy this year if they are to get out of a very tough division. Last year 6 of the 8 playoff teams in the west were from the Mid West division, so topping that division will be tough. They are getting up there in age with 4 of the 5 starters either 30 years or older. They have good depth up front with Ostertag, Blount and Harvey Grant, but need some help at SF and SG positions where both Mitch and Glen spent time on the sidlelines last year. Make or break season this year!!!
Denver Nuggets
Additions:
Bo Outlaw (via FA)
Subtractions:
Otis Thorpe (Retired)
Toni Kukoc
Xavier Mcdaniel
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Terrell Brandon / SG - Kerry Kittles / SF - Donyell Marshall / PF - Rony Seikaly / C - Vlade Divac
Nuggets come into the season led by their star Centre Vlade Divac and SF Donyell Marshall. They released Kukoc and Mcdaniel at seasons end and saw Otis Thorpe retire. TC took a big hit on their players with Rony Seikaly declining in scoring and def. Kittles was the big improver and Donyell Marshall stayed the same. They dont have their 1st this year and need to win to avoid their pick rewarding the Bucks with a nice player. Their lineup looks good and they have some solid bench players in JR Rider, Clifford Robinson, Bo Outlaw and Samaki Walker who can all contribute.
Houston Rockets
Additions:
Gerald Honeycut (26th pick)
Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf (Trade - Bullets)
Lindsay Hunter (Trade - Bullets)
Avery Johnson (Trade - Bullets)
Mario Bennett (Trade - Bullets)
Derek Harper (Trade - Bullets)
Eric Piatowski (Trade - Bullets)
Jevon Crudup (Trade - Bullets)
Subtractions:
Hakeem Olajuwon (Trade - Bullets)
Clyde Drexler (Trade - Bullets)
Dominique Wilkins (Trade - Bullets)
Amal McKaskill (Raptors)
Tony Massenburg (Knicks)
Derrick McKey (Hornets)
Kevin Edwards (Pacers)
Kenny Battle
Erwin Claggett
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Kevin Johnson / SG - Derek Harper / SF - Gerald Honeycutt / PF -Kevin Duckworth / C - Mario Bennett
The Rockets were at a cross roads after TC, make another run at a title, or just trade dads army and rebuild. They chose the latter. They traded Hakeem, Dominique and Clyde to the Bullets for expirings and their picks (which the Bullets owned). Now that they have their picks back they can just let this season run and hopefully reap the rewards their lotto picks will bring. They have a few solid pieces in Kevin Johnson and Gerald Honeycutt to build around and even though the trade has had its critics, its a trade that sees two teams going in totally different directions with chances of reaching their goals.
Minnesota Timberwolves
Additions:
Anthony Johnson 28th pick (viaBucks)
Darrick Martin (re-signed)
P.J. Brown (via FA)
Nate Erdman ( 2nd round pick 23)
Terrell Diaz-Miguel (waivers)
Randy Rutherford (waivers)
David Benoit (waivers)
Subtractions:
Eurelijus Zukauskas (Grzzlies)
Terrell Bell
Aaron Williams
Walt Williams
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Jason Kidd / SG - Reggie Lewis / SF - Charles Barkley / PF - David Robinson / C - Patrick Ewing
The TWolves made a big trade just before the trade deadline bringing in Patrick Ewing to the team. This trade made them instant contenders and saw them reach the UOSLR finals for the first time. Trunks has this team for a whole season now, and is a favourite to go to the finals again if the team can play like how they played in the playoffs. Barkley, DRob and Ewing form one of the better frontlines in the league, to rival that of the Bullets this season. Jason Kidd and Reggie Lewis are an under rated back court and Eric Dampier, PJ Brown and Darrick Martin provide solid depth with room for 5 more players. This could be their only chance, but a very good one nonetheless!!!
San Antonio Spurs
Additions:
Kelvin Cato (23rd pick)
Mikki Moore ( 2nd round pick 6)
Subtractions:
Pete Chilcut
Jon Barry
Michael Ansley
Chris Robinson
Michael Smith
Steve Johnson
Loren Meyer
Andre Turner
Buck Williams
Hot Rod Williams
Robert Horry (Contract buy-out - Nets)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Mark Jackson / SG - Ronnie Fields / SF - Jerry Stackhouse / PF - Kelvin Kato / C -Mikki Mooore
At the time of printing, the Spurs only had 6 players on their roster and look to still be in the middle of a rebuilding phase. New arrivals to the team are the newly drafted Kelvin Cato and Mikki Moore. All of the players had significant improvements to their games, Mikki Moore being the major surprise improving his reb, inside scoring and handles. Ronnie Fields had a major improvement with his def going from C+ to B+ and his outside scoring going from B- to B+, if he keeps going like this, hes going to be a star!!
Utah Jazz
Additions:
John Starks (via FA)
George McCloud (via FA)
Hu Weidong (re-signed)
Kiwane Garris ( 2nd round pick 24)
Carlos Rogers (Re-signed)
Charles Smith (waivers)
Subtractions:
Marlon Anderson
Chris Smith (Knicks)
Oliver Miller
Henry James (Raptors)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG -Sherman Douglas / SG -Hu Weidong / SF - Scottie Pippen/ PF - Danny Manning / C - Arvydas Sabonis
The Utah Jazz were happy with their FA and the ensuing TC, when the results came up, the Jazz GM said "Pretty darn happy with Manning and Sabonis, both went up in reb.
Pippen went down in def, but still solid at A. The rest of the ups and downs are irrelevant." Their starting lineup is solid, with Manning, Sabonis and Pippen providing the go forward and Weidong with Douglas supplying the backup in the back court. John Starks, George McCloud and Aaron Mckie will come off the bench and once the waivers ban is lifted, they will be able to sign players to bolster their front court. Utah will be one of the teams happy to see the Rockets rebuild!!
Vancouver Grizzlies
Additions:
Allan Houston( Re-signed)
Chris Mullin (trade - Hawks)
Priest Lauderdale (trade - Hawks)
Shaquille O'Neal (Re-signed)
Eurelijus Zukauskas (via FA)
Mark Blount (via FA)
Subtractions:
Ervin Johnson (Hawks)
Howard Eisley
Winston Garland
Mike Iuzzilino (Kings)
Pervis Ellison (trade - Hawks)
Johnny Newman (trade - Hawks)
Charles Smith. (Contract buy-out)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Rod Strickland / SG - Allan Houston / SF - Chris Mullin / PF - Lionel Simmons / C - Shaquille Oneal
After Allan Houston re-signed, the Grizzlies number one priority was to bring Oneal back to Vancouver. After day 1, he was back in a Grizzlies uniform and the whole organisation could breathe a sigh of relief. They made a trade with the Hawks to bring Chris Mullin into the roster and provide Shaq with some relief with Preist Lauderdale who had a great rookie season with Atlanta. TCs came around and csdude was dismayed with the little to no development from his players. They should still be a competitive side and up their come playoff time, but the quiet TC has people in Vancouver wondering whats in the water? They will still win 50 games
Pacific Division
Golden State Warriors
Additions:
Shareef Abdur-Rahim (5th pick)
Anthony Johnson ( 28th pick)
Dee Brown (via FA)
Bruce Bowen (re-signed)
Mark Price (re-signed)
Kevin Ollie (via FA)
Lee Mayberry(re-signed)
Corliss Williamson (via FA)
Don Reid (via FA)
Alain Digbeu (via FA)
Rodrick Rhodes (via FA)
Chris Anstey (via FA)
Subtractions:
Bill Wennington (Clippers)
Kevin Thompson
Greg Dreiling
Elmore Spencer
Clarence Weatherspoon
William Njoku
Thomas Hill
Sleepy Floyd (Retired)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Mark Price / SG - Bruce Bowen / SF - Shareef Abdur Rahim / PF - Corliss Williamson / C - Brad Daugherty
The Warriors are looking forward to the next few seasons, as they look to be in rebuilding mode with only 4 players under contract at the end of this season. Shareef Abdur Rahim had a very good TC improving his def straight away and should be one of the go-to guys this season. Bruce Bowen will be playing for a new deal so look for his game to improve and Corliss Williamson will have a chance to show his talent. They have Dee Brown, Jasson Sasser and Anthony Johnson off the bench, other than that, they will be looking good come lottery time.
Los Angeles Clippers
Additions:
Dirk Nowitzki ( 2nd pick)
Nick Van Exel (Trade with Nets)
Eddie Jones (Trade with Nets)
Juwan Howard (Trade with Nets)
Bobby Phills (via FA)
Rick Smits ( Trade with Pistons)
Tom Gugliotta(via FA)
Bill Wennington (via FA)
Luther Wright ( waivers)
Subtractions:
Mike Brown
Will Purdue
Anthony Bonner
Detlef Schrempf (Heat)
Thurl Bailey (Trade)
Isaih Thomas (Trade)
Kevin Willis (Trade)
Darnell Robinson (Trade)
Charles Oakley (Trade with Pistons)
A.C. Green (Trade with Pistons)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - NVE / SG - Eddie Jones / SF - GleN Robinson / PF - Juwon Howard / C - Rick Smits
Big year for the Clippers being a contract year for them. Mike has been busy bringing in players to help them win and win now. They managed to trade the 3rd pick in the draft for NVE, Eddie Jones and Juwon Howard. He traded Charles Oakley and AC Green to the Piston for Rik Smits and drafted German teenage sensation Dirk Nowitzki with the 2nd pick in the draft. TC saw players drop a few grades here and there, most notably Eddie Jones and NVE who dropped in Def and Handles. Glen Robinson will be called to carry the scoring load once again, but he does have some help with Smits, NVE and Juwon Howard. Im not sure if Dirk is ready to start but he may be forced to help out now. Big year, if they make the playoffs or get 40 wins, Crazymike wins!!
Los Angeles Lakers
Additions:
Charles O`bannon (25th pick )
Peja Drobjnak ( 2nd round pick 9)
Subtractions:
Sean Rooks
Don Reid (Warriors)
Mark Hendrickson
Bryon Russell (Hornets)
Walter McCarty (Hawks)
Sarunas
Mario Elie
Brooks Thompson
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Gary Payton / SG - Harold Miner / SF - Charles Obannon / PF -Antonio Davis / C - Peja Drobjnak
They currently have 6 players on their roster and rely on Gary Payton and Harold Miner to get them through games. They managed to draft Drob, but not the admiral but a center from Europe who they hope will have a game as big as the admiral. If they could get someone down low to help Antonio Davis out, they could be competitive but until then, they could be a long shot to make the playoffs. They dont have their 1st this season and that could be a problem if they are to add to their roster. Seattle have it currently and are licking their chops if the Lakers dont make the playoffs this season.
Phoenix Suns
Additions:
Maurice Taylor (11th pick)
Bobby Hurley (re-signed)
Mark Sanford ( 2nd round pick 12)
Subtractions:
Stacey Augmon (Pacers)
Leonard White
Mookie Blaylock(Bullets)
Cedric Ceballos (Heat)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Kendall Gill / SG - Hersey Hawkins / SF - Christian Laettner / PF - Derrick Coelman / C - Duane Causewell
The Suns have a team loaded with Talent and ready to make a run. DC took a hit in his def but the rest of the roster look to have had nice TCs. They re-signed Bobby Hurley and drafted Maurice Taylor and Mark Sanford. They have nice options in Kendall Gill, Hersey Hawkins and Laettner with a C who can defend and reb some. Their bench is solid with Hurley, Ham, Rozier and Reeves coming off the bench. They lost Augmon and Blaylock in FA but have enough depth to see them make the playoffs once again.
Portland Trailblazers
Additions:
Ron Mercer (8th pick)
Troy Hudson (18th pick)
Terrence Rencher(re-signed)
Tyler Gomelsky (re-signed)
Chris Morris (re-signed)
Cadillac Anderson (re-signed)
Charles Smith (2nd round pick 10)
Subtractions:
John Coker
Bobby Phills (Clippers)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG -Travis Best / SG - Bobby Sura / SF - Ron Mercer / PF - Joe SMith / C - Theo Ratliff
The young blazers have a talented roster this season and could make some noise. Their front court is very good with Joe Smith and Ratliff having nice TCs and Ron Mercer improving his shooting after just one training camp. Travis Best is their floor leader and is backed up by Troy Hudson or Bobby Sura. The Blazers are young but need a season or two before they will can contend with the big boys, they will cause some headaches this season for teams but need a big time player to carry them through during those tough games.
Sacramento Kings
Additions:
Roy Tarpley (Re-signed)
Mike Iuzzolino (via FA)
John Williams ( via FA)
Blair Rasmussen (re-signed)
Ledell Eackles (via FA)
Subtractions:
Anthony Cook
Ethimios Rentzias
George McCloud (Jazz)
Randy Rutherford (TWolves)
Bryant Stith
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Tim Hardawy / SG - Steve Smith / SF - Jimmy Jackson / PF - Roy Tarpley / C – Andrew Lang
The Kings have been consistantly good these last few season, topping their division through the play of their leaders Steve Smith, Hardaway, Tarpley and Jackson. They are currently over the hard cap and desperately need to lose 3 or so million to get under and sign a few minimum level players to get their roster to 12. If not they lose 3 picks and could end up in trouble with the fans. I do believe they have the talent to still make the playoffs for those years and remain competitive. They have a strong bench with Iuzzplino, Eackels, Rasmussen and Williams. Very talented lineup, prob the best in the Pacific Division this year .
Seattle Supersonics
Additions:
Antonio Daniels (9th pick)
Tim Thomas (10th pick)
Adonal Foyle (14th pick)
Jeff Webster (via FA)
Chuck Person (via FA)
Scott Skiles (via FA)
Subtractions:
PJ Brown (Timberwolves)
Dee Brown (Warriors)
Donald Williams
Dana Barros (Knicks)
Yinka Dare (Trade - Magic)
Reggie Geary (Trade - Magic)
Richard Keene (Trade - Magic)
22nd pick (Trade - Magic)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Steve Nash / SG - Peja Stojakovic / SF -Jeff Webster
/ PF -Kurt THomas / C - Adonal Foyle
A team in transition, they are young and a few years away from competing but have some talented players that will make them tough to beat. Nash and Peja provide a nice back court combination, with the log jam at SF with Bodirga, Webster, Person and Tim Thomas there, look to the Sonics at trading one or two of those players for front court help. They traded Yinka and co to the Magic for cap space to sign Person , Webster and Skiles and drafted some talented players in Foyle, Thomas and Daniels. I have a feeling the Sonics havent finished wheeling and dealing, so watch this space for more moves!!!!
Thank you for reading once again, hope you enjoyed it, saga etc.. signing out for UOSLR.. Alotta teams rebuilding this year!!
Here it goes boys, sorry no pics or sparklies!!!
EASTERN CONFERENCE
Atlantic Division
Boston Celtics
Additions:
Derek Anderson (7th pick)
Tariq Abdul-Wahad (19th pick)
David Wesley (via FA)
Corey Beck (via FA)
Michael Hawkins (via FA)
Subtractions:
Bill Laimbeer
Jerome Lane
Alan Henderson
Otis Smith
Doug West
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Jeff Hornacek / SG - Derek Anderson / SF - Tariq Abdul-Wahad / PF - Armen Gilliam / C - Zydrunas Ilgauskas
This team has a nice look of experience and youth with it to start the season. They still have All Star guard Jeff Hornacek at PG (who is on the trade block), youngsters Derek Anderson and Tariq Andul-wahad at SG and SF. These two, if they can develop over the next few seasons will form a nice trio with Big Z in the middle. Armen Gilliam, who is 33 and prob on his last legs, will be asked to do alot of work down low, but will provide some solid def and inside scoring for the Celtics. Last season was the first time they missed the playoffs and have a season or so before they will see themselves back in there. If their 1st round picks dont do well to start off, there are some wiley veterans in David Wesley, Terry Porter ready to step in.
Miami Heat
Additions:
Darrell Armstrong (via FA)
Detlef Schrempf (via FA)
Popeye Jones (via FA)
Bison Dele (via FA)
Cedric Ceballos (via FA)
Ed Pinckney (via FA)
Subtractions:
Corey Beck (Celtics)
Nate Mcmillan
Rickey Pierce ( Retired)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Darell Armstrong / SG - Kobe Bryant / SF - Jalen Rose / PF - Karl Malone / C - Benoit Benjamin
The defending champs come into the season with alot of new faces but with the starting lineup virtually intact. Training Camps saw the veterans take a few hits in a few places but their youngsters, Jalen Rose and Kobe Bryant had nice improvements in their individual games. They still have playoff MVP Karl Malone who is ready for another season and signed Hornets PG Darrell Armstrong to the MLE. This was a key signing considering Drazen took a hit in his handling this off season and could find himself coming off the bench. They have nice depth in Drazen Petrovic, Loy Vaught, Tyrone Corbin, Ed Pinkney on the bench and could make their way back into the finals (Although a big trade in Washington could hinder their progression)
New Jersey Nets
Additions:
Chauncy Billups (3rd pick)
Thurl Bailey (Trade - Clippers)
Isaih Thomas (Trade - Clippers)
Kevin Willis (Trade- Clippers)
Darnell Robinson (Trade - Clippers)
Sammie Haley (re-signed)
Robert Horry (via FA)
Michael Finley (via FA)
Subtractions:
John Williams (Kings)
Chuck Person (Sonics)
Sean Elliot (Hornets)
Greg Minor
BJ Armstrong (Bullets)
Nick Van Exel (Trade)
Eddie Jones (Trade)
Juwan Howard (Trade)
David Benoit (Contract buy-out)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Chauncey Billups / SG - Michael Finley / SF - Robert Horry / PF - Kevin Willis / C - Zeljko Rebraca
The Nets are in full rebuild and have had a busy off season. They started off by dealing their three starters Nick Van Exel, Eddie Jones and Juwon Howard for the 3rd pick in Chauncey Billups and a host of expiring players. During FA they acquired the services of Michael Finley and Robert Horry, both of whom will form a nice trio with Billups. They are in desperate need of a big man, but probably will look to this upcoming draft or FA to find one. Willis and Rebraca will be short term relief, but dont look to them being in the starting lineup for long.
New York Knicks
Additions:
Tony Massenburg (via FA)
Chris Smith (via FA)
Dana Barros (via FA)
Scott Brooks (via FA)
Doug Christie (via FA)
Steve Kerr (via FA)
Subtractions:
Robert Pack
Mark Bryant (Pistons)
Willie Burton
Adonis Jordan
Ken Norman
Reggie Williams
Sam Bowie (retired)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Michael Adams / SG - Reggie Miller / SF - Ron Harper / PF - Dennis Rodman / C - Alejandro Camby
The Knicks had their best season in franchise history, notching up 52 wins behind the play of their dynamic back court duo of Reggie Miller and Michael Adams. This season they have a the same starting lineup with the addition of Doug Christie, Tony Massenberg, Scott Brooks and Dana Barros to bolster their roster. Training camps have not treated them too kindly this offseason, but they are still good enough to get to the playoffs and could go further. Alejandro Camby could find himself on the bench with Massenberg and Campbell both maintaining their defensive awareness and with Cambys taking a dip.
Orlando Magic
Additions:
Keith Van Horn (6th pick)
Yinka Dare (trade - Sonics)
Reggie Geary (Trade - Sonics)
Richard Keene (Trade - Sonics)
Anthony Parker (22nd pick via trade - Sonics)
God Shamgod ( 2nd round pick 4)
Jaque Vaughn ( 2nd round pick 18)
Subtractions:
Michael Williams (Bullets)
Kenny Smith (Hornets)
Luther Wright (Clippers)
Ledell Eckles( Kings)
Dell Curry (Pistons)
Penny Hardaway (76ers)
Bo Outlaw (Nuggets)
Antoine Carr
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Haywood Workman / SG - Billy Owens / SF - Keith Van Horn / PF - Rasheed Wallace / C - Sharone Wright
Things were looking bright for the Magic this offseason, that was until Penny left them and signed with the 76ers leaviing a hole at the SG position. Anthony Parker was drafted to fill that void but he has gone overseas to ply his trade in europe for as season and could see Billy Owens playing there in the meantime until they find one. Their front court shows alot of potential with Sharone Wright , Rasheed Wallace ( who improved his scoring and handling) and Keith Van Horn ( who needs to work on his def but can do everything else well). Maybe God Shamgod or Jacque Vaughn could play there, who knows but its a question fans in Orlando are wanting answered.
Philadelphia 76ers
Additions:
Stephen Jackson ( 4th pick)
Danny Fortson ( 16th pick)
Pat Burke ( 27th pick)
Damon Jones (29th pick)
Penny Hardaway ( via FA)
Gary Grant (via FA)
Subtractions:
Bison Dele (Heat)
Lawrence Funderburke
Willie Anderson
Chris Dudley (Bullets)
Kevin Gamble
Steve Kerr (Knicks)
George Lynch
Doc Rivers (Hawks)
Scott Skiles (Sonics)
Spud Webb (Pistons)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Elliot Perry / SG - Penny Hardaway / SF - Stephen Jackson / PF - Jermaine Oneal / C - Pat Burke
The 6ers were had the projected 2nd pick going into the lottery but came out with the 4th pick in the 97 draft. The GM could be heard from his booth and was quoted as saying "Cool. I get a pile of shit with this pick. " That pile of shit was Stephen Jackson who has probably had one of the better training camps compared to his fellow rookies. They also acquired Penny with a very lucrative deal who along with Jermaine Oneal make a ver formiddable SG/SF/PF combination. Elliot Perry had a remarkable TC where his handles and def improved making him a good candidate for starting PG. Rookie Pat burke provides the defense down low that Dragan doesnt have. They dont have their pick this year so the 6ers will be looking for a march to the playoffs and could do so, however their depth could stop that march.
Washington Bullets
Additions:
Chris Webber (Re-signed)
Scott Pollard ( 21st pick)
Mookie Blaylock (via FA)
Michael Williams (via FA)
B.J. Armstrong (via FA)
Hakeem Olajuwon (Trade - Rockets)
Clyde Drexler (Trade - Rockets)
Dominique Wilkins (Trade - Rockets)
Dan Majerle ( waivers)
Chris Dudley ( waivers)
Subtractions:
Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf (Trade - Rockets)
Lindsay Hunter (Trade - Rockets)
Avery Johnson (Trade - Rockets)
Mario Bennett (Trade - Rockets)
Derek Harper (Trade - Rockets)
Eric Piatowski (Trade - Rockets)
Jevon Crudup (Trade - Rockets)
John Starks (Jazz)
Jeff Webster ( Sonics)
Melvin Robinson
Ed Pinkney (Heat)
Corliss Williamson (Contract Buyout - Warriors)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Mookie Blaylock / SG - Clyde Drexler / SF - Dominique Wilkins / PF -Chris Webber / C - Hakeem Olajuwon
I would like to introduce you to the 1998 UOSLR champions lol. The trigger was pulled right after TCs and could possibly see the Bullets as the next champions this season. On paper it looks like that, but they still have to go out and do it. They now have a lineup that is built to win now, who knows how long the Glide, the human highlight film and the dream have left in their tanks, but we do know they are good to go for one more season. They have good depth with Michael Williams, BJ Armstong, Scott Pollard and Dale Davis off the bench. Firm Favourites this year to win it all, but they do have the Heat to go through 1st and have an injury free season.
Central Division
Atlanta Hawks
Additions:
Sam Cassell (re-signed)
Pervis Ellison (trade - Grizzlies)
Walter McCarty (via FA)
Doc Rivers (via FA)
Ervin Johnson (via FA)
Donnie Boyce (re-signed)
Tim Legler (re-signed)
Damon Bailey (re-signed)
Robert Horry ( via trade with Nets)
Isaiah Thomas/Kevin Willis ( via trade with Nets)
Alvin Williams ( 2nd round pick 22)
Subtractions:
Adam Keefe
Danny Ferry
Chris Mullin (trade - Grizzlies)
Priest Lauderdale (trade - Grizzlies)
Johnny Newman (trade - Nets)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Sam Cassell / SG - Vernon Maxwell / SF -Robert Horry / PF - Pervis Ellison / C - Wayman Tisdale
Re-signing Sam Cassell was their top priority and he did so once the season was over. They didnt have their pick so acquiring players was done so via FA and trades with the Nets and Grizzlies. The Hawks traded Chris Mullin and Preist Lauderdale away for Pervis Ellison and Johnny Newman to the Grizzlies. When posting his trade, Chipper was quoted as saying "Getting a PF to match up with the Eastern Bigs is nice. Tisdale and Pervis down low I like a lot. " They then moved the newly aquired Newman to the Nets for Robert Horry who will come in at SF and start straight away. This gives the Hawks a much more balanced lineup, however, if they are to suffer injuries, Earvin Johnson, Jerome Kersey, Kevin Willis and Tim Legler are their only back ups worth of time.
Charlotte Hornets:
Additions:
Shawn Bradley (re-signed)
Bubba Wells ( 24th pick)
Muggsy Bogues (re-signed)
Dino Radja (re-signed)
Byron Russell (via FA)
Kenny Smith (via FA)
John Salley(re-signed)
Sean Elliot (waivers)
Derrick Mckey (waivers)
Eric Murdoch (waivers)
Chris Gatling (waivers)
Subtractions:
Pop Eye Jones (Heat)
Terry Cummings (Retired)
David Wesley (Celtics)
Kareem Townes
Albeto Angulo
Darrell Armstrong (Heat)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG -Muggsy Bogues / SG -Bryon Russell / SF - Larry Johnson / PF -John Salley / C - Alonzo Mourning
The Hornets have a 9 man roster and are currently in the process of trialling a few free agents to fill out their roster. They managed to re-sign Dino Radja, Shawn Bradley, John Salley, and Muggsy Bogues as well as adding Kenny Smith and Byron Russell to their lineup. Their strengths lie in the play of Alonzo Mourning and Larry Johnson who carry the team. Help will be needed from Muggsy, Salley, Russell and Bradley to help the Hornets get back to the Conference Semis and hopefully beyond. News just in, Elliot, Murdoch, McKey, Gatling have all signed with the Hornets in hopes of winning a title this year!!
Chicago Bulls:
Additions:
Igancio Rodriguez(re-signed)
Brevin Knight (20th pick)
Tony Battie (via trade with Mavs)
Donnie Boyce (via FA)
Odell Hodge ( 2nd round pick 21)
Subtractions:
Chris Gatling (Hornets)
James Worthy
Kevin Ollie (Warriors)
Corey Alexander
Johnny Dawkins
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG -Etienne Preira / SG - Derrick Fisher / SF - Adrian Griffin / PF - Tony Battie / C - Dikembe Mutumbo
Hot on their success from last season where they made the Conference finals on the back of Etienne Preira and Dikembe Mutumbo, the Chicago Bulls return virtually intact and ready to take on the best the East has to offer. Tony Battie comes in at PF to take over Eric Montross and provid another defensive rebounder down low to compliment Mutumbo. Preira starts the season at PG with Fisher moving to the SG spot and Adrian Griffin in at SF. Tiger was a lil worried with the lack of development from Preira considering all the time that has gone into making him such a talented player. They look good this season and will go as far as Deke and Preira will take them.
Cleveland Cavs
Additions:
Tim Duncan (1st pick )
Laphonso Ellis (re-signed)
Victor Page ( 2nd round pick 5)
Subtractions:
Giorgis Sigalas
Tony Miller
Scott Williams
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Kenny Anderson / SG - Nick Anderson / SF – Ed Obannon / PF –Laphonso Ellis / C - Tim Duncan
The Cavs caught a lucky break moving from the projected 5th pick to move up to the top spot. With that pick they chose Tim Duncan out of Wake Forest. Just like that they go from lotto to playoffs with the acquisition of Duncan. He will most likely move to C with Laphonso Ellis playing at the PF spot. The Cavs have an abundance of talent in their front court with Ellis and Duncan joining Camby and Ben Wallace up front. Ed O`bannon is progressing nicely and will provide good depth for the Cavs. Kenny Anderson, Rex Chapman and Nick Anderson round out a very talented roster. Things are looking rosey in Cleveland!!
Detroit Pistons
Additions:
Charles Oakley (Trade with Clippers)
A.C. Green (Trade with Clippers)
Mark Bryant (via FA)
Dell Curry (via FA)
Keith Booth (12 pick)
Kebu Stewart ( 2nd round pick 11)
Spudd Webb ( waivers)
Subtractions:
Dwayne Morton
Scott Brooks (Knicks)
Adrian Caldwell
Chris Whitney
Dan Majerle (Hornets)
Terrel Diaz-Miguel (Twolves)
Jake Hiscock ( Retired)
Paul Mokeski (Retired)
Rick Smits ( Trade with Clippers)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Brent Barry / SG - Tony Dumas / SF - Keith Booth / PF -Kebu Stewart / C -Charles Oakley
The Pistons are continuing their rebuild and have recently traded Rik Smits for the expiring contracts of Charles Oakley and AC Green in an effort to free up some cap for next season for a big name FA and a top pick to build around Brent Barry and Keith Booth. Brent Barry and Booth are still quite young and would be nice pieces to build around. This could be a long yeaer for the Piston faithful, but if they can be patient with their team, they could net a nice player at the end of the year and look forward to good times ahead. But dont think that Oakley is going to let this team lay down and take it up the arse, they will still be competitive!!!
Indiana Pacers:
Additions:
Stacey Augmon (via FA)
Jayson Williams (via FA)
Calbert Cheaney (waivers)
Kevin Edwards (waivers)
Subtractions:
Sam Gouda
J.R Reid
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Pedrag Danilovic / SG - Latrell Spreewell / SF - Jamal Mashburn / PF - Luc Longley / C - Stanley Roberts
The Indiana Pacers return with 2 new additions to the roster. Stacey Augmon and Jayson Williams were both acquired via FA and will provide the Pacers with depth at every position. They look like a tough team to beat and have had the benefit of a TC that hasnt seen major changes in the teams look. Antoine Walker however, hasnt been able to bloom as much due to the fact he is playing behind Mashburn but he's only 20 so he could still improve. Look to the Pacers making some noise this season and possibly pushing for 50 wins this season.
Milwaukee Bucks
Additions:
Marko Milic (13th pick)
Vin Baker (via FA)
Gheorghe Muresan (Re-signed)
Chucky Atkins (Re-signed)
Subtractions:
Gary Grant ( 76ers)
Calbert Cheaney (Pacers)
Rick Fox
Michael Finley (Nets)
Lasalle Thompson (Retired)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Allen Iverson / SG - Ray Allen / SF - Grant Hill / PF - Antonio Mcdyess / C - Vin Baker
One of the youngest and most taented starting lineups in UOSLR could possibly end up being one of the most scariest lineups in history. The oldest player on the roster is Muresan at 26 years old and still getting better. They lost Finely to the Nets in FA but acquired a nice big man in Vin Baker, who comes in averaging 17 pts and 10 rebs from last season. They could either start him at C or have him come off the bench behind Muresan and Dyess. Iverson has had a solid TC coming in to the 1998 season, improving on his outside shooting, handles and def. His back court partner Ray Allen is still finding his feet and could be a year off from exploding in TCs. Grant Hill and Dyess look nice and provide the foundation for a talented young team.
Toronto Raptors
Additions:
Bobby Jackson ( 17th pick)
Aaron Williams (waivers)
Henry James (waivers)
Amal Mckaskill ( waivers)
Subtractions:
Corie Blount ( Mavericks)
Dennis Scott (Knicks)
Vin Baker (Bucks)
Doug Christie (Knicks)
Russell Larson
Michael Hawkins (Celtics)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Damon Stoudamire / SG - Tony Delk / SF - Michael Jordan / PF - Brian Grant / C - Terry Mills
The Raptors have had a terrible offseason, losing Baker and not being able to sign anyone in FA. They had a 1st round exit in the playoffs losing to eventual winners Miami in a 7 game series. Losing Baker has hurt the most, but moving Grant to PF and Terry Mills to C should hopefully balance that loss out. Depth is a main problem up front with only Michelak being the sole front court back up. MJ is still there and is still good enough to give the Raptors a chance at making the playoffs. Tony Delk, Stoudnamire, Grant and Mills have to step and help him out, or they could miss out. Pooh Richardson has found a new lease on life and could unseat Stoudamire at starting PG if hes not carefull. A season of uncertainty ahead for the Raptors, how long will Jordan stay in a Toronto Uniform? Only time will tell..
WESTERN CONFERENCE
Midwest Division
Dallas Mavericks
Additions:
Harvey Grant (re-signed)
Corie Blount (via FA)
Subtractions:
Douglas Schenk
Jayson Williams (Pacers)
Tom Gugliotta (Clippers)
Eric Murdoch (Hornets)
Tony Battie (15th pick traded to the Bulls)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - John Stockton / SG - Mitch Richmond / SF - Glen Rice / PF - Shawn Kemp / C - Horace Grant
The Mavs have a very experienced look to it and will be looking at making a run at the conference finals this time around. They need to stay healthy this year if they are to get out of a very tough division. Last year 6 of the 8 playoff teams in the west were from the Mid West division, so topping that division will be tough. They are getting up there in age with 4 of the 5 starters either 30 years or older. They have good depth up front with Ostertag, Blount and Harvey Grant, but need some help at SF and SG positions where both Mitch and Glen spent time on the sidlelines last year. Make or break season this year!!!
Denver Nuggets
Additions:
Bo Outlaw (via FA)
Subtractions:
Otis Thorpe (Retired)
Toni Kukoc
Xavier Mcdaniel
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Terrell Brandon / SG - Kerry Kittles / SF - Donyell Marshall / PF - Rony Seikaly / C - Vlade Divac
Nuggets come into the season led by their star Centre Vlade Divac and SF Donyell Marshall. They released Kukoc and Mcdaniel at seasons end and saw Otis Thorpe retire. TC took a big hit on their players with Rony Seikaly declining in scoring and def. Kittles was the big improver and Donyell Marshall stayed the same. They dont have their 1st this year and need to win to avoid their pick rewarding the Bucks with a nice player. Their lineup looks good and they have some solid bench players in JR Rider, Clifford Robinson, Bo Outlaw and Samaki Walker who can all contribute.
Houston Rockets
Additions:
Gerald Honeycut (26th pick)
Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf (Trade - Bullets)
Lindsay Hunter (Trade - Bullets)
Avery Johnson (Trade - Bullets)
Mario Bennett (Trade - Bullets)
Derek Harper (Trade - Bullets)
Eric Piatowski (Trade - Bullets)
Jevon Crudup (Trade - Bullets)
Subtractions:
Hakeem Olajuwon (Trade - Bullets)
Clyde Drexler (Trade - Bullets)
Dominique Wilkins (Trade - Bullets)
Amal McKaskill (Raptors)
Tony Massenburg (Knicks)
Derrick McKey (Hornets)
Kevin Edwards (Pacers)
Kenny Battle
Erwin Claggett
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Kevin Johnson / SG - Derek Harper / SF - Gerald Honeycutt / PF -Kevin Duckworth / C - Mario Bennett
The Rockets were at a cross roads after TC, make another run at a title, or just trade dads army and rebuild. They chose the latter. They traded Hakeem, Dominique and Clyde to the Bullets for expirings and their picks (which the Bullets owned). Now that they have their picks back they can just let this season run and hopefully reap the rewards their lotto picks will bring. They have a few solid pieces in Kevin Johnson and Gerald Honeycutt to build around and even though the trade has had its critics, its a trade that sees two teams going in totally different directions with chances of reaching their goals.
Minnesota Timberwolves
Additions:
Anthony Johnson 28th pick (viaBucks)
Darrick Martin (re-signed)
P.J. Brown (via FA)
Nate Erdman ( 2nd round pick 23)
Terrell Diaz-Miguel (waivers)
Randy Rutherford (waivers)
David Benoit (waivers)
Subtractions:
Eurelijus Zukauskas (Grzzlies)
Terrell Bell
Aaron Williams
Walt Williams
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Jason Kidd / SG - Reggie Lewis / SF - Charles Barkley / PF - David Robinson / C - Patrick Ewing
The TWolves made a big trade just before the trade deadline bringing in Patrick Ewing to the team. This trade made them instant contenders and saw them reach the UOSLR finals for the first time. Trunks has this team for a whole season now, and is a favourite to go to the finals again if the team can play like how they played in the playoffs. Barkley, DRob and Ewing form one of the better frontlines in the league, to rival that of the Bullets this season. Jason Kidd and Reggie Lewis are an under rated back court and Eric Dampier, PJ Brown and Darrick Martin provide solid depth with room for 5 more players. This could be their only chance, but a very good one nonetheless!!!
San Antonio Spurs
Additions:
Kelvin Cato (23rd pick)
Mikki Moore ( 2nd round pick 6)
Subtractions:
Pete Chilcut
Jon Barry
Michael Ansley
Chris Robinson
Michael Smith
Steve Johnson
Loren Meyer
Andre Turner
Buck Williams
Hot Rod Williams
Robert Horry (Contract buy-out - Nets)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Mark Jackson / SG - Ronnie Fields / SF - Jerry Stackhouse / PF - Kelvin Kato / C -Mikki Mooore
At the time of printing, the Spurs only had 6 players on their roster and look to still be in the middle of a rebuilding phase. New arrivals to the team are the newly drafted Kelvin Cato and Mikki Moore. All of the players had significant improvements to their games, Mikki Moore being the major surprise improving his reb, inside scoring and handles. Ronnie Fields had a major improvement with his def going from C+ to B+ and his outside scoring going from B- to B+, if he keeps going like this, hes going to be a star!!
Utah Jazz
Additions:
John Starks (via FA)
George McCloud (via FA)
Hu Weidong (re-signed)
Kiwane Garris ( 2nd round pick 24)
Carlos Rogers (Re-signed)
Charles Smith (waivers)
Subtractions:
Marlon Anderson
Chris Smith (Knicks)
Oliver Miller
Henry James (Raptors)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG -Sherman Douglas / SG -Hu Weidong / SF - Scottie Pippen/ PF - Danny Manning / C - Arvydas Sabonis
The Utah Jazz were happy with their FA and the ensuing TC, when the results came up, the Jazz GM said "Pretty darn happy with Manning and Sabonis, both went up in reb.
Pippen went down in def, but still solid at A. The rest of the ups and downs are irrelevant." Their starting lineup is solid, with Manning, Sabonis and Pippen providing the go forward and Weidong with Douglas supplying the backup in the back court. John Starks, George McCloud and Aaron Mckie will come off the bench and once the waivers ban is lifted, they will be able to sign players to bolster their front court. Utah will be one of the teams happy to see the Rockets rebuild!!
Vancouver Grizzlies
Additions:
Allan Houston( Re-signed)
Chris Mullin (trade - Hawks)
Priest Lauderdale (trade - Hawks)
Shaquille O'Neal (Re-signed)
Eurelijus Zukauskas (via FA)
Mark Blount (via FA)
Subtractions:
Ervin Johnson (Hawks)
Howard Eisley
Winston Garland
Mike Iuzzilino (Kings)
Pervis Ellison (trade - Hawks)
Johnny Newman (trade - Hawks)
Charles Smith. (Contract buy-out)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Rod Strickland / SG - Allan Houston / SF - Chris Mullin / PF - Lionel Simmons / C - Shaquille Oneal
After Allan Houston re-signed, the Grizzlies number one priority was to bring Oneal back to Vancouver. After day 1, he was back in a Grizzlies uniform and the whole organisation could breathe a sigh of relief. They made a trade with the Hawks to bring Chris Mullin into the roster and provide Shaq with some relief with Preist Lauderdale who had a great rookie season with Atlanta. TCs came around and csdude was dismayed with the little to no development from his players. They should still be a competitive side and up their come playoff time, but the quiet TC has people in Vancouver wondering whats in the water? They will still win 50 games
Pacific Division
Golden State Warriors
Additions:
Shareef Abdur-Rahim (5th pick)
Anthony Johnson ( 28th pick)
Dee Brown (via FA)
Bruce Bowen (re-signed)
Mark Price (re-signed)
Kevin Ollie (via FA)
Lee Mayberry(re-signed)
Corliss Williamson (via FA)
Don Reid (via FA)
Alain Digbeu (via FA)
Rodrick Rhodes (via FA)
Chris Anstey (via FA)
Subtractions:
Bill Wennington (Clippers)
Kevin Thompson
Greg Dreiling
Elmore Spencer
Clarence Weatherspoon
William Njoku
Thomas Hill
Sleepy Floyd (Retired)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Mark Price / SG - Bruce Bowen / SF - Shareef Abdur Rahim / PF - Corliss Williamson / C - Brad Daugherty
The Warriors are looking forward to the next few seasons, as they look to be in rebuilding mode with only 4 players under contract at the end of this season. Shareef Abdur Rahim had a very good TC improving his def straight away and should be one of the go-to guys this season. Bruce Bowen will be playing for a new deal so look for his game to improve and Corliss Williamson will have a chance to show his talent. They have Dee Brown, Jasson Sasser and Anthony Johnson off the bench, other than that, they will be looking good come lottery time.
Los Angeles Clippers
Additions:
Dirk Nowitzki ( 2nd pick)
Nick Van Exel (Trade with Nets)
Eddie Jones (Trade with Nets)
Juwan Howard (Trade with Nets)
Bobby Phills (via FA)
Rick Smits ( Trade with Pistons)
Tom Gugliotta(via FA)
Bill Wennington (via FA)
Luther Wright ( waivers)
Subtractions:
Mike Brown
Will Purdue
Anthony Bonner
Detlef Schrempf (Heat)
Thurl Bailey (Trade)
Isaih Thomas (Trade)
Kevin Willis (Trade)
Darnell Robinson (Trade)
Charles Oakley (Trade with Pistons)
A.C. Green (Trade with Pistons)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - NVE / SG - Eddie Jones / SF - GleN Robinson / PF - Juwon Howard / C - Rick Smits
Big year for the Clippers being a contract year for them. Mike has been busy bringing in players to help them win and win now. They managed to trade the 3rd pick in the draft for NVE, Eddie Jones and Juwon Howard. He traded Charles Oakley and AC Green to the Piston for Rik Smits and drafted German teenage sensation Dirk Nowitzki with the 2nd pick in the draft. TC saw players drop a few grades here and there, most notably Eddie Jones and NVE who dropped in Def and Handles. Glen Robinson will be called to carry the scoring load once again, but he does have some help with Smits, NVE and Juwon Howard. Im not sure if Dirk is ready to start but he may be forced to help out now. Big year, if they make the playoffs or get 40 wins, Crazymike wins!!
Los Angeles Lakers
Additions:
Charles O`bannon (25th pick )
Peja Drobjnak ( 2nd round pick 9)
Subtractions:
Sean Rooks
Don Reid (Warriors)
Mark Hendrickson
Bryon Russell (Hornets)
Walter McCarty (Hawks)
Sarunas
Mario Elie
Brooks Thompson
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Gary Payton / SG - Harold Miner / SF - Charles Obannon / PF -Antonio Davis / C - Peja Drobjnak
They currently have 6 players on their roster and rely on Gary Payton and Harold Miner to get them through games. They managed to draft Drob, but not the admiral but a center from Europe who they hope will have a game as big as the admiral. If they could get someone down low to help Antonio Davis out, they could be competitive but until then, they could be a long shot to make the playoffs. They dont have their 1st this season and that could be a problem if they are to add to their roster. Seattle have it currently and are licking their chops if the Lakers dont make the playoffs this season.
Phoenix Suns
Additions:
Maurice Taylor (11th pick)
Bobby Hurley (re-signed)
Mark Sanford ( 2nd round pick 12)
Subtractions:
Stacey Augmon (Pacers)
Leonard White
Mookie Blaylock(Bullets)
Cedric Ceballos (Heat)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Kendall Gill / SG - Hersey Hawkins / SF - Christian Laettner / PF - Derrick Coelman / C - Duane Causewell
The Suns have a team loaded with Talent and ready to make a run. DC took a hit in his def but the rest of the roster look to have had nice TCs. They re-signed Bobby Hurley and drafted Maurice Taylor and Mark Sanford. They have nice options in Kendall Gill, Hersey Hawkins and Laettner with a C who can defend and reb some. Their bench is solid with Hurley, Ham, Rozier and Reeves coming off the bench. They lost Augmon and Blaylock in FA but have enough depth to see them make the playoffs once again.
Portland Trailblazers
Additions:
Ron Mercer (8th pick)
Troy Hudson (18th pick)
Terrence Rencher(re-signed)
Tyler Gomelsky (re-signed)
Chris Morris (re-signed)
Cadillac Anderson (re-signed)
Charles Smith (2nd round pick 10)
Subtractions:
John Coker
Bobby Phills (Clippers)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG -Travis Best / SG - Bobby Sura / SF - Ron Mercer / PF - Joe SMith / C - Theo Ratliff
The young blazers have a talented roster this season and could make some noise. Their front court is very good with Joe Smith and Ratliff having nice TCs and Ron Mercer improving his shooting after just one training camp. Travis Best is their floor leader and is backed up by Troy Hudson or Bobby Sura. The Blazers are young but need a season or two before they will can contend with the big boys, they will cause some headaches this season for teams but need a big time player to carry them through during those tough games.
Sacramento Kings
Additions:
Roy Tarpley (Re-signed)
Mike Iuzzolino (via FA)
John Williams ( via FA)
Blair Rasmussen (re-signed)
Ledell Eackles (via FA)
Subtractions:
Anthony Cook
Ethimios Rentzias
George McCloud (Jazz)
Randy Rutherford (TWolves)
Bryant Stith
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Tim Hardawy / SG - Steve Smith / SF - Jimmy Jackson / PF - Roy Tarpley / C – Andrew Lang
The Kings have been consistantly good these last few season, topping their division through the play of their leaders Steve Smith, Hardaway, Tarpley and Jackson. They are currently over the hard cap and desperately need to lose 3 or so million to get under and sign a few minimum level players to get their roster to 12. If not they lose 3 picks and could end up in trouble with the fans. I do believe they have the talent to still make the playoffs for those years and remain competitive. They have a strong bench with Iuzzplino, Eackels, Rasmussen and Williams. Very talented lineup, prob the best in the Pacific Division this year .
Seattle Supersonics
Additions:
Antonio Daniels (9th pick)
Tim Thomas (10th pick)
Adonal Foyle (14th pick)
Jeff Webster (via FA)
Chuck Person (via FA)
Scott Skiles (via FA)
Subtractions:
PJ Brown (Timberwolves)
Dee Brown (Warriors)
Donald Williams
Dana Barros (Knicks)
Yinka Dare (Trade - Magic)
Reggie Geary (Trade - Magic)
Richard Keene (Trade - Magic)
22nd pick (Trade - Magic)
Projected Starting Line Up:
PG - Steve Nash / SG - Peja Stojakovic / SF -Jeff Webster
/ PF -Kurt THomas / C - Adonal Foyle
A team in transition, they are young and a few years away from competing but have some talented players that will make them tough to beat. Nash and Peja provide a nice back court combination, with the log jam at SF with Bodirga, Webster, Person and Tim Thomas there, look to the Sonics at trading one or two of those players for front court help. They traded Yinka and co to the Magic for cap space to sign Person , Webster and Skiles and drafted some talented players in Foyle, Thomas and Daniels. I have a feeling the Sonics havent finished wheeling and dealing, so watch this space for more moves!!!!
Thank you for reading once again, hope you enjoyed it, saga etc.. signing out for UOSLR.. Alotta teams rebuilding this year!!
