Post by sagapolutele50 on Mar 7, 2009 9:18:08 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..
Atlantic Division
Boston Celtics
Additions:Corey Williams (Draft) , Felton Spencer, Todd Lichti (FA), Chris Morris ( re-signed)
Subtractions: Joe Wolf ( FA), David Feitl ( FA), Kenny Williams ( FA)
Projected starting line up: PG- Jeff Hornacek / SG - Jay Humpheries / SF - Derek Harper / PF - Larry Nance / C - Rony Seikaly
Quiet offseason for the Celtics. They had the majority of their key players already tied up for the season and bolstered their front court with the signing of Felton Spencer and Chris Morris. Bernard King had a sub par TC but Dash was happy with the way Hornacek, Seikaly, Morris and Pack improved. The Celtics were surprised
at not making the playoffs last season and hope to be there this year. Alot of pressure will be placed on the shoulders of Hornacek, Nance and Derek Harper to get them to the playoffs but I`m sure they will relish having that challenge placed upon them.
Miami Heat
Additions: Robert Horry (Draft) , Harvey Grant, Joe Kleine (Re-signed), Lee Mayberry (Draft), Mahmo Abdul-Rauf (FA)
Subtractions: Anthony Bonner (FA), Doug West (Raptors), Vinnie Johnson ( Retired), Tony Smith (FA), Liam Polynice(Blazers)
Projected Starting Line up: PG - Eric Murdoch / SG - Mahmoud Abdu Rauf / SF - Robert Horry / PF - Armen Gilliam / C - Joe Kleine
The Miami Heat had a solid offseason with the re-signing of Harvey Grant, Joe Kleine and drafting of Lee Mayberry and Robert Horry. Derwin was surprised that Horry dropped to him in the draft and was more than happy to pick him up. They lost West to the Raptors and Polynice to the Blazers but had a key signing in Rauf who had a solid season last year and rewarded the Heat with a solid TC and improvements across the board and all categories. After a very good rookie season, Eric Murdoch rested on his laurels and looks to have had a sub par TC. The Heat will be looking to Gilliam, new signing Rauf and Murdoch to lead them this season. Majerle could also be called upon should things go wrong with the back court.
Buffalo Braves
Additions: Mike Wawrzyniak
Subtractions: Greg Dreiling(Pacers), Charles Jones(Bullets), Dan Godfread(FA), Buck Johnson(FA), David Wingate(FA), Maurice Cheeks(Retired)
Projected SL: PG - Byron Scott / SG- Mitch Richmond / SF - Lionel Simmons / PF - Charles Barkley / C - Blair Rasmussen
Very quiet offseason by the East Conference Champs. The retirement of Mo Cheeks leaves them with a team in need of a PG and a few depth issues. However, they still have Mitch, Simmons and Charles Barkley with the team this season and all they need to do is make the playoffs and we could see a repeat of last season. To do that. I think they need to address the PG situation and bring in some quality bench players should one of their stars gets inijured. Look to Richmond and Sir Charles at getting the Braves back into the playoffs. Dont be surprised if the team is totally dismantled and the Braves head to the rebuilding zone and a shot at Shaq should they
have their 1st round pick. Noone knows but the Braves GM!!!
New York Knicks
Additions: Tony Bennett , Terry Cummings, Darnell Valentine(Re-signed), A.C Green ( FA), Anthony Mason(FA)
Subtractions: , Rob Abbott(FA), Mike Brown(FA)
Projected SL: PG - Kenny Smith / SG - Reggie Miller / SF -Terry Cummings / PF - Charles Smith / C - Sam Bowie
"Terry Cummings is back!" from the NYK Knicks GM himself. They managed to resign Tony Bennett, Cummings and back up PG Valentine for the upcoming season. They also signed A.C Green as their 6th man or maybe starter for his allround play and Anthony Mason whos scouted A pot has yet to amount to something good in
training camps. The Knicks didnt lose much and hope to progress further this up coming season. Reggie Miller, Sam Bowie and Kenny Smith will be at their usual best but they will need alot of help from Cummings and AC Green in order for the Knicks to make some noise this season. I dont think they will have long before these two show their worth.
Orlando Magic
Additions:Melvin Robinson(Draft), Dikembe Mutumbo (Trade), Danny Ainge(FA)
Subtractions: Paul Mokeski, Paul Pressy, Sam Vincent, Duane Ferrell, Randy Breuer, Danny Tower (All FA)
Projected SL: PG - Michael Williams / SG - Scottie Pippen / SF = Billy Owens / PF - Clifford Robinson / C- Dikembe Mutumbo
After slipping from 1 - 3, the Magic immediately went to work and traded out of the draft and got in the big man that wasnt going to be there at 3. For what Mutumbo lacks in offense, he more than makes up for in his intensity and defensive prowess. I think with this lineup they will definately improve on their26-56 record from last
season, however, will it be enough to propell them into the playoffs with a few of the Eastern Teams improving dramatically this offseason. They have a very good starting 5 who are all solid defensively, but its their offense that will need much attention with Pippen, Robinson and Owens being relied up this up coming season.
They only have 8 on their roster so they will be making strides before sim 1 to get their roster full.
Philadelphia 76ers
Additions: Pop-Eye Jones, Henry Williams (Draft), Gary Grant , Chris Dudley (re-signed)
Subtractions: Mark Aquire(Warriors), Wayne Cooper, Delaney Rudd, (FA)Felton Spencer(Celtics), Ed Nealy ( FA),
Projected SL: PG - Gary Grant / SG - Marciulionis / SF - Tony Campbell / PF - Chris Dudley / C - David Robinson
This offseason has been a quiet one for the 6ers. They re-signed Grant and Dudley and drafted Pop-Eye Jones and Henry Williams. TCs didnt treat them too kindly with improvements in one category being offset by a decline in another. David Robinson will be the man in the middle and everything will go through the admiral whether
its the def or offense. Sarunus and Tony Campbell will be their other sources of production and they will be looking at these three to see them through to the playoffs. They still have a few more signings to get their roster up to capacity due to the losses of some players to other teams during FA.
Washington Bullets
Additions: Anthony Peeler, ( Draft),Charles Jones, Mason Lynch, Kenny Battle(FA)
Subtractions: John Crotty, Lance Blanks, Chris Monk, Dave Popson(fa), Bill Wennington (Jazz)
Projected SL: PG - Avery Johnson / SG - Dana Baros / SF - Vernon Maxwell / PF - Terry Mills / C - Hakeem Olajuwon
The bullets will be looking at making another run at the title this year. TC was a success for them with a host of players improving on key categories, Dream improved in Handles, Mills up in rebounding, Maxwell up in outside, Peeler up in inside, defense, and scouted, AJ up in handles and outside. Rookie Anthony Peeler had a great TC
and look to him making a key contribution for the bullets off the bench this season. Their small lineup will cause many teams alot of match up problems on the offensive side of the ball, as well as the defensive side should the opposition prove careless with the ball. They will be quick in transition and should they move to their
half court offense, the dream will give their perimeter shooters alot of time to hoist up those threes. Exciting season ahead for the Bullets.
Central Division
Atlanta Hawks
Additions: Latrell Spreewell , Chris Smith ( Draft), Mark Acres, Scott Skiles, Jon Sundvold,Tim Perry, Olden Polynice(re-signed)
Subtractions: Dikembe Mutumbo(Trade), Kevin Gamble(Bulls), Ken Norman(Nuggets),
Projected SL: PG - Spud Webb / SG - Scott Skiles / SF - Latrell Spreewell / PF - Karl Malone / C -Olden Polynice
The Hawks re-signed a most of their roster from last season. They did lose Ken Norman and Kevin Gamble which has weakened their bench considerably. To start the offseason, the Hawks traded their oft injured C Dikembe Mutombo to the Magic for the 3rd pick in the draft ( Latrell Spreewell) and their 94 1st rounder. Spreewell will
be expected to come in and contribute straight away. Replacing Mutumbo is Olden Polynice who is a big body that can score and bang the boards but is a lil suspect on the def end. Karl Malone will be the main man for Atlanta and will be supported by his small back court tandem Spud Webb and Scott Skiles. Also suiting up for the
Hawks this season will be Tim Perry, Kiki Vanderweighe and Grant Long down low with rookie Chris Smith and Jimmy Oliver helping out in the back court.
Charlotte Hornets:
Additions: Alonzo Mourning, Jamal Mashburn, David Wesley, Duane Cooper, Oliver Miller, Byron Houston( Draft) , Blue Edwards, Tyronne Hill ( Re-signed), Brian Shaw (FA)
Subtractions: Jud Buechler, Pat Cummings, Tom Tolbert ( FA), Adrian Dantley(Retired)
Projected SL: PG - Armstrong / SG - Mashburn / SF - Larry Johnson / PF - Sam Perkins / C - Alonzo Mourning
This team had prob the best ever offseason one could want. They jumped from projected 5th and 6th picks in the draft to 1 and 2!!! Immediately they drafted Alonzo Mourning and young talent Jamal Mashburn. They also picked up some solid players in Wesley, Miller, Cooper and Houston. They managed to steal Brian Shaw and
re-sign Blue Edwards and Tyronne Hill to their roster on day 1 of FA. Add these players to 2nd year stars Darrell Armstrong and Larry Johnson along with Sam Perkins and Ty Hill, you have the makings of some great young talent ready to show the UOSLR what they can do! If TCs hit these guys right then the Hornets are ready to contend, if not, give em a year. Whats scarier is that they have the Hawks and Grizzlies 1st round picks in the Shaquille Oneal draft, remember that it was the Grizz pick that netted them Mashburn!!
Chicago Bulls:
Additions: Malik Sealy, (Draft), Kevin Gamble (FA), Darrell Walker, Craig Ehlo(re-signed)
Subtractions: Kurt Rambis, Dan O`Sullivan, Frank Brickowski, Lorenzo Williams (FA), Danny Ainge(Magic)
Projected SL:PG - Muggsy Bogues / SG - Kevin Gamble / SF - Larry Bird / PF - Orlando Woolridge / C - Rik Smits
The Larry Bird Bulls will be once again knocking on the playoffs door this season, whether their offseason moves have been enough to get them deep into the playoffs is another question. The managed to sign Kevin Gamble from the Hawks and re-sign Darrell Walker and Craig Ehlo to help with their back court whilst Malik Sealy needs
another year or so before he can help out in any way. Orlando Woolridge and Rik Smits are the post options and will pose problems for opposing teams. Woolridge is really a SF and might get abused down low so the Bulls might be on the hunt for a PF before the season gets under way. You never know though, Orlandos ability to
score down low at will might offset his defensive liabilities. This team will go as far as Larry Bird can take them.
Cleveland Cavs
Additions: Laphonso Ellis , Anthony Cade (Draft), Jerry Reynolds (FA)
Subtractions: Kenny Battle(Bullets), Jim Les(Sonics), Anthony Mason (Knicks) , Walter Palmer(FA), Jayson Williams(Warriors)
Projected SL: PG - Kenny Anderson / SG - Rex Chapman / SF - Nick Anderson / PF - Laphonso Ellis / C - Shawn Kemp
The Cavs return with most of last years bench signed to other teams. They do however have their nucleus back for another year and rookie Laphonso Ellis providing an athletic player he can do a lil bit of everything. Shawn Kemp leads this team and is supported by Rex Chapman who had an awesome TC and looks like hes ready to
step up to the next level of stardom. These two will have Kenny Anderson and Nick Anderson in support who both had good TCs this off season and look to make their first trip to the post season. .
Detroit Pistons
Additions: Gheorghe Muresan, Benny Maxwell (Draft),Winston Garland, Randolph Keys (FA)
Subtractions: Matt Bullard, A.J English, Jack Sikma, Rory Sparrow, Kelly Tripuka(FA), Scott Williams(Suns)
Projected SL : PG - Mark Price / SG - Jerry Reynolds / SF - Glen Rice / PF - Charles Oakley / Luke Longley
Glen Rice and Mark Price are the leaders of the Pistons and will hope to at least be competitive this season in UOSLR. Glen Rice was the only real mover in the Pistons Training Camps and will be the main source of offense this season. Look to Glen Rice averaging close to 30 pts a game this season with Mark Price helping him out along
the way. They still have a few roster spots to sign some players who will provide some relief for the starters.
Indiana Pacers:
Additions: B.J Armstrong, Mario Elie (Re-signed), Haywoode Workman, Greg Dreiling (FA)
Subtractions: Corey Scott, Terrance Harvey, Lasalle Thompson
Projected SL: PG - Joe Dumars / SG - Chris Mullin / SF - Mario Elie / PF - Otis Thorpe / C - Stanley Roberts
The Pacers will be looking at making another trip to the post season this year and look to have the goods!! Joe Dumars , Chris Mullin and Mario Elie provide a great trio who could prob be one of the leagues better trios this year. Otis Thorpe and Stanley Roberts make a nice PF / C combination down low and they have the depth should
anyone get hurt. The pacers managed to re-sign Armstrong and Elie and acquired Workman and Dreiling via FA period. Up front they have Laimbeer and Tom Chambers backing up their front court and providing scoring punch down low off the bench. This Pacers team has the fans looking forward to the upcoming season.
Milwaukee Bucks
Additions: PJ Brown, (draft)
Subtractions: Winston Garland(Pistons), Stuart Gray, Darrell Griffith(Clippers), Eddie Johnson(Clippers), Todd Murphy(FA)
Projected SL: Tim Hardaway / Willie Anderson / Sean Elliot / PJ Brown / James Donaldson.
The Milwaukee Bucks finished the 1991 season with a 35-47 record. In the offseason they released a host of players including their starting SG Eddie Johnson who had 17 pts and 5 brds last season. This year their lone new edition is their 1st round pick PF- PJ Brown (8th overall) out of Louisiana Tech. He will be expected to come in
and produce straight away at either C or PF. Tim Hardaway leads the team and will need help from Anderson and Elliot if they are to improve. Chances are they are looking at Shaq in the draft.
Toronto Raptors
Additions: Brent Price, (draft), Chuck Person, Elden Campbell (re-signed), Nate McMillan, Doug West, Don Maclean, Matt Geiger, John Salley,Michael Cage (FA)
Subtractions: Randolph Keys(Pistons), Eric Leckner(Spurs), Rod Higgins(Sonics), Haywoode Workman(Pacers), Scott Meents, Joe Barry Carroll, Vern Flemming (Clippers)
Projected SL: PG - Pooh Richardson / SG - Michael Jordan / SF - Chuck Person / PF - Horace Grant / C - Andrew Lang
The Raptors were pretty busy this offseason trying to find some weapons off the bench to get them back to the conference finals and maybe further. They have the same starting 5 whom had quiet TCs apart from Jordan and Ho Grant. They managed to sign Doug West, John Salley, Nate McMillan and Michael Cage from FA after losing
most of their bench players last year to better paying teams. Campbell returns and looks like he could compete for the starting C position and Brent Price was acquired via the draft. The Raptors will be looking to Jordan once again to show them the way and hope that he, Pooh and Person can find the same form that got them to the
conference finals.
Midwest Division
Dallas Mavericks
Additions: Doug Christie, Litterial Green (Draft)
Subtractions: Manute Bol(Warriors), Derrick Gervin, Alec Kessler(FA), John Salley(Raptors), Sedale Threatt(Warriors), Gerald Wilkins, Herb Williams(FA), Gerald Henderson(retired)
Prjected SL:PG - Rod Strickland / SG - Rolando Blackman / SF - Doug Christie / PF - Rick Fox / C - Mark West
The Mavericks are in a bit of strife here, they some talented SG / SFs but noone up front other than Mark West. This is very unfortunate because Strickland had a remarkable TC but has noone to pass the ball to. Im sure the Mavs will get busy picking up players off the waiver wire to bolster their roster. The only new additions to
the team are SG Doug Christie whos def will be a welcome asset and PG Litterial Green. Their Front court players were all wooed away from the team to franchise such as the Warriors and Raptors, prob looking at winning a UOSLR Title and helping those teams out.
Denver Nuggets
Additions: Terrell Brandon(draft), Reggie Smith, Dave Johnson (draft), Ken Norman(FA), Danny Ferry( re-signed)
Subtractions: Ken Bannister, Winston Bennett, Lafayette Lever, Jeff Malone, Alan Ogg, (FA) Brad Davis(retired)
Projected SL: PG - Sherman Douglas / SG - Jimmy Jackson / SF - Ken Norman / PF - Dennis Scott / C - Vlade Divac
The Denver Nuggets look stronger this season than in seasons gone by. They managed to sign Ken Norman and drafted Terrell Brandon at 4 in this years draft. Their only weakness by the looks of it is at PF where Dennis Scott and Danny Ferry could share time at that position. Both are very good scorers but look at bit shakey at the
def and could leave a whole lot of cleaning up for Vlade to do down low. Ken Norman provides the Nuggets with a very good defender and a good inside scorer. Sherman Douglas could be trade bait (if they are looking at getting a PF) should the Nuggets administrators want to start Brandon this season. Brandon had a good TC
and will provide great competition at the PG spot. Jimmy Jackson improved his outside shot and will be the go to go should Divac get double teamed down low. Nice looking offseason for thi Nuggets.
Houston Rockets
Additions: Todd Day, Bryant Stith(Draft)
Subtractions: Vincent Peters, Brad Lohaus, Tim McCormick, Kevin Edwards, Drazen Petrovic(Sonics) Larry Drew(Retired)
Projected SL:PG - Kevin Johnson / SG - Xavier Mcdaniel / SF - Deflef Schrempf / PF - Dale Davis / C - Kevin Duckworth
Kevin Johnson and his Rockets had an average TC at best. Most of their players either stayed the same or decreased. I think its safe to say that the Rockets will be fighing for the £1 pick in the 93 draft. Kevin Johnson is their only standout player and Dale Davis is a TC or two away from showing us what he can really do. Xavier Mcdaniel, Detlef and Duckworth can all score inside but their def is whats going to let them down. They lost Drazen to the Sonics and the two SGs they drafted did little or next to nothing in TCs.
Minnesota Timberwolves
Additions: Nick Van Exel, Tom Gugliotta, Sean Rooks, Adam Keefe(draft)
Subtractions: William Bedford, Bill Cartwright, Greg Foster, Jerrod Mustaf, Randy White. (FA), Mychal Thompson ,Dave Corzine (Retired)
Projected SL:NVE / Steve Smith / Hu Weidong / Tom Googliotta / Kevin Willis.
The Timberwolves let go of a lot players this off season but added a bit of talent to their roster from the draft. They had the 7th, 13th and 16th and 36th picks in the draft and picked up Van Exel, Gugliotta, Rooks and Keefe. Out of those 4, Van Exel and Googs could be getting some quality minutes out of the PF/SF and PG positions. They have a host of SF/SGs and could look at making a move to bolster their front court. Or they could be happy and take their chances at Shaq. Elliot Perry had a great rookie season and with the arrival of NVE could see his minutes diminish or might be playing a back up PG / SG role.
San Antonio Spurs
Additions: Hot Rod Williams , Danny Schayes, Otis Smith(re-signed), Darrick Martin (Draft), Eric Leckner (FA), Isaiah Thomas, Eddie Lee Wilkins, Antoine Carr (Trade)
Subtractions: Ron Anderson, Steve Johnson(FA), Moses Malone (Retired), Mike Smrek,Greg Kite , Craig Hodges, Larry Stewart (Trade)
Projected SL: Mark Jackson / SG -Reggie Lewis / SF -Hot Rod Williams / PF - Antoine Carr / C - Patrick Ewing
Solid off season for the SPurs, they managed to re-sign most of their players from last season and picked up Eric Leckner from the FA period to replace the retired Moses Malone. Patrick Ewing returns and has another season with Reggie Lewis and Hot Rod Williams to try for another shot at the title. Mark Jackson leads the way from
the PG spot and Otis Smith could start at SG should the Spurs choose to go in that direction. They have some good depth up front with Leckner and Schayes and have Dawkins along with Avent providing relief from the bench for Smith and Jackson. The trade they made with the Grizz makes them very strong and possibly 2 deep at every position!! Very prominsing season ahead for the Spurs and should find themselves in the playoffs once again.
Utah Jazz
Additions: Clarence Weatherspoon, Tracy Murray, Jon Barry, Jeff Theiler(draft) , Jack Haley, Rodney Mcray (Re-signed),Bill Wennington , (FA)
Subtractions: Rickey Green(retired), Jack Peterson,Gary Grant(FA), John Shasky(Sonics)
Projected SL: PG - Rodney McCray / SG = Steve Kerr / SF - bOBBY Phills / PF - Jack Haley / C - Arvydas Sabonis
The jazz have taken an experimental approach to their lineup and hope it comes off. Big time scorer Rodney Mcray starts at PG with Kerr at SG. Their Rookies all had sub par TCs and with that could be looking to the lottery after their 1st sim. Their star C Sabonis looks good once again and will lead this team again this season. Hes
prob not one for rebuilding and could be looking for another team before the season is up. Overall this is a young team and needs to develop, this is going to be one of those season where they will be under going a steep learning cuve.
Vancouver Grizzlies
Additions: Steve Rogers(Draft), Darrell Griffith, Ralph Sampson, Mike Smrek,Greg Kite , Craig Hodges, Larry Stewart (Trade)
Subtractions: Ledell Eckler, Tim Legler, Stojan Vrankovic, David Wood (FA), James Edwards(Retired), Isaiah Thomas, Antoine Carr, Eddie Lee Wilkins (Trade)
Projected SL: PG - Doc Rivers / SG - Rickey Pierce / SF - Nique / PF - Mike Smrek / C - Ralph Sampson
The Grizzlies are currently going through a transition period with a their GM being fired and a new GM try to familiarise himself with his surroundings. The Grizzlies need to win or at least try and get their picks back. They missed out on the playoffs last season and their pick ended up being the 2nd pick in the draft and Jamal Mashburn. I dont think they have their picks for a few years yet so they need to win and keep on winning. Nique is their star and will need help from Pierce and the newly acquired Sampson to do that. They have also added Mike Smrek,Greg Kite , Craig Hodges, Larry Stewart in exchange for Thomas, Wilkins and Carr. The Grizzlies stated they mainly did it for the pick but they also receive some good depth. They have an aging line up and that could go against them if they look to trade some of their pieces away, This season should be an exciting one with a new GM and new direction.
Pacific Division
Golden State Warriors
Additions: Reggie Slater, Randy Woods (Draft), , Dale Ellis (FA), Lester Conner,Mark Eaton (Re-signed), Herb Williams , Sedale Threatt , Mark Aguirre , Kenny Gattison ,Manute Bol, Jayson Williams (FA)
Subtractions: Anthony Frederick(Clippers), Roy Hinson, J.R. Reid, Kenny Walker(FA),Jerry Reynolds( Pistons), Eddie Lee Wilkins(Clippers) Alton Lister(Retired)
Projected SL:[/u]PG - John Stockton / SG - Dale Ellis / SF -Dennis Rodman / PF - Brad Daugherty / C - Manute Bol
The Warriors had a busy FA period signing a host of players who can provide alot of depth and relief from the bench for the players. Dennis Rodman, Brad and Stockton are their key players this season. The signing of Manute Bol and Mark Eaton gives the Warriors a very big lineup should they both end up on the court at the same time. Dont waste your time goin down low with those two there. You wont come out alive lol. Dale Ellis provides an outside threat along with Del Curry. Dont be surpised if the Warriors are there in the post season once again.
Los Angeles Clippers
Additions: Mike Giminski , John Williams, Leron Ellis(re-signed), Eddie Johnson ,Danny Young, Vern Fleming , Bryan Croshere ,Anthony Frederick (FA), Kevin Mchale(Trade)
Subtractions: Alvaro Teheran, Gerald Glass, AC Green(Knicks), Jeff Martin, Nate McMillan(Raptors), Ed Pinkney(Sonics), Larry Smith (FA)
Projected SL: PG - Terry Porter / SG - Eddie Johnson / SF - David Benoit / PF - Wayman Tisdale / C - Kevin Mchale
The Clippers had a nice offseason and have just acquired Mchale in a trade with the Grizzlies. This gives them a very good post player along with Tisdale down low. They also have John Williams off the bench who will provide the spark and give no less than the two starters. David Benoit, Eddie Johnson and Terry Porter round out
the rest of the SL. They lost some key players such as AC Green and Nate Mcmillan but managed to get Vern Flemming , Travis Mays and Danny Young. Exciting times for the Clippers orgainsation.
Los Angeles Lakers
Additions: Harold Miner, Marcus Webb,(Draft), Johnny Newman(re-signed)
Subtractions: Jon Koncak, Ala Abdulnaby, Mahmoud Abdul Rauf(Heat), Todd Lichti(Celtics)
Projected SL: PG - Michael Adams / SG - Harold Miner / SF - Johnny Newman / PF - Mark Bryant / C - Pervis Ellison
Lakers like the look of Harold Miner, Lakers GM did not like the drops for Adams in outside scoring and handling but was pleased with Newmans scoring burst. Could this be the year the Lakers make a run for the playoffs? They have some decent depth with Anthony, Green and Ansley coming off the bench. They could eagerly be
awaiting 1 pm to sign a few more players to bolster their roster. Pervis Ellison still looks like a very good post player defensively, dont look to the PF or C for offense although rookie Marcus Webb looks like an above average inside scorer.
Phoenix Suns
Additions: Walt Williams, Christian Laettner, Elmore Spencer (Draft), Duanne Causwell, Buck Williams,Alvin Robertson. ,George McCloud (re-signed), Scott Williams(FA)
Subtractions: Milos Babic, Terry Catledge, Sydney Green
Projected SL: PG- Mookie Blaylock / SG- Hersey Hawkins / SF - George MCloud / PF - Christian Laettner / C - Derrick Coleman
Phoenix had a solid draft this year, they managed to get some solid team players in Walt Williams and Christian Laettner and space eater Elmore Spencer. They were happy to welcome back 6th man of the year Buck Williams and Alvin Robertson during FA and have a very nice looking line - up for the beginning of the season. If any of the starters lose form, then their understudies will be more than capable to step in. The PG and SG look to be their strongest position this season.
Portland Trailblazers
Additions: Thurl Bailey,Andre Turner (re-signed), Mark Strickland(Draft), Liam Polynice, Tyler Gomelsky (FA)
Subtractions: Justin Fox, Darren Loefler, Byron Irvin, Henry James(FA)
Projected SL: PG -Dee Brown / SG - Clyde Drexler / SF - Thurl Bailey / PF - Cadillac Anderson / C - Benoit Benjamin
The Blazers have some good depth and will be looking at the playoffs again this season. The players didnt do too well in training camps, with most of the players either staying the same or having minor changes in their ratings. Drexler and Benjamin will be the key players this season and will have help from Dee Brown, Ty Corbin and Thurl Bailey. Benjamin is one of the better Cs in this league and could challenge for def player of the year with the A+ def rating he has.. If Ty Corbins starts over Bailey, the Blazers starting lineup will have A- or better def ratings and that can cause major problems for opposing teams. Offense wins games , but def wins championships,
maybe the Blazers have that Defense.
Sacramento Kings
Additions: Sleepy Floyd(Re-signed), Matt Steigenga (Draft)
Subtractions: Tanner Mickael, Michael Cage(Raptors), Adrian Caldwell, Terry Davis(FA), Kenny Gattison(Warriors), Robert Parish(retired)
Projected SL: PG - Magic Johnson / SG - Reggie Theus / SF - Ron Harper / PF - Matt Steigenga / C - Danny Manning
With the retirement of Robert Parrish, the Kings needed to find a C to replace him. They lost most of their front court players to FA and have still no C to start for them. They have a 7 man roster and will be looking at when the FA period opens for them to sign some players. Magic Johnson, Derek Harper and Danny Manning are their
teams focus and if they can get a decent C and some depth, the Kings could be very dangerous. Their main focus is their front court, if this is addressed then they should do well this season.
Seattle Supersonics
Additions: Will Purdue (re-signed), Drazen Petrovic, , Rod Higgins, John Shasky, Jim Les, Ed Pinckney (FA)
Subtractions: Tyler Gomeski(Blazers), Dale Ellis (Warriors) , Duane Schnitzius, Irving Thomas, Trent Tucker,(FA) Danny Young (Clippers)
Projected SL:: [/i]PG - Gary Payton / SG - Drazen Petrovic / SF -Ed Pinkney / PF - Roy Tarpley / C - Brian Williams
Best pick up of FA was the signing of Drazen Petrovic from the Rockets. He had a very good TC along with the rest of the team. After missing out on bidding on day 1, the sonics recovered to sign some key players in FA and have a nice looking roster going into the 1st sim of the season. Coming off the bench will be John Starks, Derrick Mckey, John Shasky and Rod Higgins. The Sonics could be a dark horse to come out of the West. Gary Payton looks like a star for the future and with Drazen, makes a great combo. The Fans in Seattle are very excited.
Thank you for reading once again, hope you enjoyed it, saga etc.. signing out for UOSLR
, updated with the Grizz and Spurs trade
Atlantic Division
Boston Celtics
Additions:Corey Williams (Draft) , Felton Spencer, Todd Lichti (FA), Chris Morris ( re-signed)
Subtractions: Joe Wolf ( FA), David Feitl ( FA), Kenny Williams ( FA)
Projected starting line up: PG- Jeff Hornacek / SG - Jay Humpheries / SF - Derek Harper / PF - Larry Nance / C - Rony Seikaly
Quiet offseason for the Celtics. They had the majority of their key players already tied up for the season and bolstered their front court with the signing of Felton Spencer and Chris Morris. Bernard King had a sub par TC but Dash was happy with the way Hornacek, Seikaly, Morris and Pack improved. The Celtics were surprised
at not making the playoffs last season and hope to be there this year. Alot of pressure will be placed on the shoulders of Hornacek, Nance and Derek Harper to get them to the playoffs but I`m sure they will relish having that challenge placed upon them.
Miami Heat
Additions: Robert Horry (Draft) , Harvey Grant, Joe Kleine (Re-signed), Lee Mayberry (Draft), Mahmo Abdul-Rauf (FA)
Subtractions: Anthony Bonner (FA), Doug West (Raptors), Vinnie Johnson ( Retired), Tony Smith (FA), Liam Polynice(Blazers)
Projected Starting Line up: PG - Eric Murdoch / SG - Mahmoud Abdu Rauf / SF - Robert Horry / PF - Armen Gilliam / C - Joe Kleine
The Miami Heat had a solid offseason with the re-signing of Harvey Grant, Joe Kleine and drafting of Lee Mayberry and Robert Horry. Derwin was surprised that Horry dropped to him in the draft and was more than happy to pick him up. They lost West to the Raptors and Polynice to the Blazers but had a key signing in Rauf who had a solid season last year and rewarded the Heat with a solid TC and improvements across the board and all categories. After a very good rookie season, Eric Murdoch rested on his laurels and looks to have had a sub par TC. The Heat will be looking to Gilliam, new signing Rauf and Murdoch to lead them this season. Majerle could also be called upon should things go wrong with the back court.
Buffalo Braves
Additions: Mike Wawrzyniak
Subtractions: Greg Dreiling(Pacers), Charles Jones(Bullets), Dan Godfread(FA), Buck Johnson(FA), David Wingate(FA), Maurice Cheeks(Retired)
Projected SL: PG - Byron Scott / SG- Mitch Richmond / SF - Lionel Simmons / PF - Charles Barkley / C - Blair Rasmussen
Very quiet offseason by the East Conference Champs. The retirement of Mo Cheeks leaves them with a team in need of a PG and a few depth issues. However, they still have Mitch, Simmons and Charles Barkley with the team this season and all they need to do is make the playoffs and we could see a repeat of last season. To do that. I think they need to address the PG situation and bring in some quality bench players should one of their stars gets inijured. Look to Richmond and Sir Charles at getting the Braves back into the playoffs. Dont be surprised if the team is totally dismantled and the Braves head to the rebuilding zone and a shot at Shaq should they
have their 1st round pick. Noone knows but the Braves GM!!!
New York Knicks
Additions: Tony Bennett , Terry Cummings, Darnell Valentine(Re-signed), A.C Green ( FA), Anthony Mason(FA)
Subtractions: , Rob Abbott(FA), Mike Brown(FA)
Projected SL: PG - Kenny Smith / SG - Reggie Miller / SF -Terry Cummings / PF - Charles Smith / C - Sam Bowie
"Terry Cummings is back!" from the NYK Knicks GM himself. They managed to resign Tony Bennett, Cummings and back up PG Valentine for the upcoming season. They also signed A.C Green as their 6th man or maybe starter for his allround play and Anthony Mason whos scouted A pot has yet to amount to something good in
training camps. The Knicks didnt lose much and hope to progress further this up coming season. Reggie Miller, Sam Bowie and Kenny Smith will be at their usual best but they will need alot of help from Cummings and AC Green in order for the Knicks to make some noise this season. I dont think they will have long before these two show their worth.
Orlando Magic
Additions:Melvin Robinson(Draft), Dikembe Mutumbo (Trade), Danny Ainge(FA)
Subtractions: Paul Mokeski, Paul Pressy, Sam Vincent, Duane Ferrell, Randy Breuer, Danny Tower (All FA)
Projected SL: PG - Michael Williams / SG - Scottie Pippen / SF = Billy Owens / PF - Clifford Robinson / C- Dikembe Mutumbo
After slipping from 1 - 3, the Magic immediately went to work and traded out of the draft and got in the big man that wasnt going to be there at 3. For what Mutumbo lacks in offense, he more than makes up for in his intensity and defensive prowess. I think with this lineup they will definately improve on their26-56 record from last
season, however, will it be enough to propell them into the playoffs with a few of the Eastern Teams improving dramatically this offseason. They have a very good starting 5 who are all solid defensively, but its their offense that will need much attention with Pippen, Robinson and Owens being relied up this up coming season.
They only have 8 on their roster so they will be making strides before sim 1 to get their roster full.
Philadelphia 76ers
Additions: Pop-Eye Jones, Henry Williams (Draft), Gary Grant , Chris Dudley (re-signed)
Subtractions: Mark Aquire(Warriors), Wayne Cooper, Delaney Rudd, (FA)Felton Spencer(Celtics), Ed Nealy ( FA),
Projected SL: PG - Gary Grant / SG - Marciulionis / SF - Tony Campbell / PF - Chris Dudley / C - David Robinson
This offseason has been a quiet one for the 6ers. They re-signed Grant and Dudley and drafted Pop-Eye Jones and Henry Williams. TCs didnt treat them too kindly with improvements in one category being offset by a decline in another. David Robinson will be the man in the middle and everything will go through the admiral whether
its the def or offense. Sarunus and Tony Campbell will be their other sources of production and they will be looking at these three to see them through to the playoffs. They still have a few more signings to get their roster up to capacity due to the losses of some players to other teams during FA.
Washington Bullets
Additions: Anthony Peeler, ( Draft),Charles Jones, Mason Lynch, Kenny Battle(FA)
Subtractions: John Crotty, Lance Blanks, Chris Monk, Dave Popson(fa), Bill Wennington (Jazz)
Projected SL: PG - Avery Johnson / SG - Dana Baros / SF - Vernon Maxwell / PF - Terry Mills / C - Hakeem Olajuwon
The bullets will be looking at making another run at the title this year. TC was a success for them with a host of players improving on key categories, Dream improved in Handles, Mills up in rebounding, Maxwell up in outside, Peeler up in inside, defense, and scouted, AJ up in handles and outside. Rookie Anthony Peeler had a great TC
and look to him making a key contribution for the bullets off the bench this season. Their small lineup will cause many teams alot of match up problems on the offensive side of the ball, as well as the defensive side should the opposition prove careless with the ball. They will be quick in transition and should they move to their
half court offense, the dream will give their perimeter shooters alot of time to hoist up those threes. Exciting season ahead for the Bullets.
Central Division
Atlanta Hawks
Additions: Latrell Spreewell , Chris Smith ( Draft), Mark Acres, Scott Skiles, Jon Sundvold,Tim Perry, Olden Polynice(re-signed)
Subtractions: Dikembe Mutumbo(Trade), Kevin Gamble(Bulls), Ken Norman(Nuggets),
Projected SL: PG - Spud Webb / SG - Scott Skiles / SF - Latrell Spreewell / PF - Karl Malone / C -Olden Polynice
The Hawks re-signed a most of their roster from last season. They did lose Ken Norman and Kevin Gamble which has weakened their bench considerably. To start the offseason, the Hawks traded their oft injured C Dikembe Mutombo to the Magic for the 3rd pick in the draft ( Latrell Spreewell) and their 94 1st rounder. Spreewell will
be expected to come in and contribute straight away. Replacing Mutumbo is Olden Polynice who is a big body that can score and bang the boards but is a lil suspect on the def end. Karl Malone will be the main man for Atlanta and will be supported by his small back court tandem Spud Webb and Scott Skiles. Also suiting up for the
Hawks this season will be Tim Perry, Kiki Vanderweighe and Grant Long down low with rookie Chris Smith and Jimmy Oliver helping out in the back court.
Charlotte Hornets:
Additions: Alonzo Mourning, Jamal Mashburn, David Wesley, Duane Cooper, Oliver Miller, Byron Houston( Draft) , Blue Edwards, Tyronne Hill ( Re-signed), Brian Shaw (FA)
Subtractions: Jud Buechler, Pat Cummings, Tom Tolbert ( FA), Adrian Dantley(Retired)
Projected SL: PG - Armstrong / SG - Mashburn / SF - Larry Johnson / PF - Sam Perkins / C - Alonzo Mourning
This team had prob the best ever offseason one could want. They jumped from projected 5th and 6th picks in the draft to 1 and 2!!! Immediately they drafted Alonzo Mourning and young talent Jamal Mashburn. They also picked up some solid players in Wesley, Miller, Cooper and Houston. They managed to steal Brian Shaw and
re-sign Blue Edwards and Tyronne Hill to their roster on day 1 of FA. Add these players to 2nd year stars Darrell Armstrong and Larry Johnson along with Sam Perkins and Ty Hill, you have the makings of some great young talent ready to show the UOSLR what they can do! If TCs hit these guys right then the Hornets are ready to contend, if not, give em a year. Whats scarier is that they have the Hawks and Grizzlies 1st round picks in the Shaquille Oneal draft, remember that it was the Grizz pick that netted them Mashburn!!
Chicago Bulls:
Additions: Malik Sealy, (Draft), Kevin Gamble (FA), Darrell Walker, Craig Ehlo(re-signed)
Subtractions: Kurt Rambis, Dan O`Sullivan, Frank Brickowski, Lorenzo Williams (FA), Danny Ainge(Magic)
Projected SL:PG - Muggsy Bogues / SG - Kevin Gamble / SF - Larry Bird / PF - Orlando Woolridge / C - Rik Smits
The Larry Bird Bulls will be once again knocking on the playoffs door this season, whether their offseason moves have been enough to get them deep into the playoffs is another question. The managed to sign Kevin Gamble from the Hawks and re-sign Darrell Walker and Craig Ehlo to help with their back court whilst Malik Sealy needs
another year or so before he can help out in any way. Orlando Woolridge and Rik Smits are the post options and will pose problems for opposing teams. Woolridge is really a SF and might get abused down low so the Bulls might be on the hunt for a PF before the season gets under way. You never know though, Orlandos ability to
score down low at will might offset his defensive liabilities. This team will go as far as Larry Bird can take them.
Cleveland Cavs
Additions: Laphonso Ellis , Anthony Cade (Draft), Jerry Reynolds (FA)
Subtractions: Kenny Battle(Bullets), Jim Les(Sonics), Anthony Mason (Knicks) , Walter Palmer(FA), Jayson Williams(Warriors)
Projected SL: PG - Kenny Anderson / SG - Rex Chapman / SF - Nick Anderson / PF - Laphonso Ellis / C - Shawn Kemp
The Cavs return with most of last years bench signed to other teams. They do however have their nucleus back for another year and rookie Laphonso Ellis providing an athletic player he can do a lil bit of everything. Shawn Kemp leads this team and is supported by Rex Chapman who had an awesome TC and looks like hes ready to
step up to the next level of stardom. These two will have Kenny Anderson and Nick Anderson in support who both had good TCs this off season and look to make their first trip to the post season. .
Detroit Pistons
Additions: Gheorghe Muresan, Benny Maxwell (Draft),Winston Garland, Randolph Keys (FA)
Subtractions: Matt Bullard, A.J English, Jack Sikma, Rory Sparrow, Kelly Tripuka(FA), Scott Williams(Suns)
Projected SL : PG - Mark Price / SG - Jerry Reynolds / SF - Glen Rice / PF - Charles Oakley / Luke Longley
Glen Rice and Mark Price are the leaders of the Pistons and will hope to at least be competitive this season in UOSLR. Glen Rice was the only real mover in the Pistons Training Camps and will be the main source of offense this season. Look to Glen Rice averaging close to 30 pts a game this season with Mark Price helping him out along
the way. They still have a few roster spots to sign some players who will provide some relief for the starters.
Indiana Pacers:
Additions: B.J Armstrong, Mario Elie (Re-signed), Haywoode Workman, Greg Dreiling (FA)
Subtractions: Corey Scott, Terrance Harvey, Lasalle Thompson
Projected SL: PG - Joe Dumars / SG - Chris Mullin / SF - Mario Elie / PF - Otis Thorpe / C - Stanley Roberts
The Pacers will be looking at making another trip to the post season this year and look to have the goods!! Joe Dumars , Chris Mullin and Mario Elie provide a great trio who could prob be one of the leagues better trios this year. Otis Thorpe and Stanley Roberts make a nice PF / C combination down low and they have the depth should
anyone get hurt. The pacers managed to re-sign Armstrong and Elie and acquired Workman and Dreiling via FA period. Up front they have Laimbeer and Tom Chambers backing up their front court and providing scoring punch down low off the bench. This Pacers team has the fans looking forward to the upcoming season.
Milwaukee Bucks
Additions: PJ Brown, (draft)
Subtractions: Winston Garland(Pistons), Stuart Gray, Darrell Griffith(Clippers), Eddie Johnson(Clippers), Todd Murphy(FA)
Projected SL: Tim Hardaway / Willie Anderson / Sean Elliot / PJ Brown / James Donaldson.
The Milwaukee Bucks finished the 1991 season with a 35-47 record. In the offseason they released a host of players including their starting SG Eddie Johnson who had 17 pts and 5 brds last season. This year their lone new edition is their 1st round pick PF- PJ Brown (8th overall) out of Louisiana Tech. He will be expected to come in
and produce straight away at either C or PF. Tim Hardaway leads the team and will need help from Anderson and Elliot if they are to improve. Chances are they are looking at Shaq in the draft.
Toronto Raptors
Additions: Brent Price, (draft), Chuck Person, Elden Campbell (re-signed), Nate McMillan, Doug West, Don Maclean, Matt Geiger, John Salley,Michael Cage (FA)
Subtractions: Randolph Keys(Pistons), Eric Leckner(Spurs), Rod Higgins(Sonics), Haywoode Workman(Pacers), Scott Meents, Joe Barry Carroll, Vern Flemming (Clippers)
Projected SL: PG - Pooh Richardson / SG - Michael Jordan / SF - Chuck Person / PF - Horace Grant / C - Andrew Lang
The Raptors were pretty busy this offseason trying to find some weapons off the bench to get them back to the conference finals and maybe further. They have the same starting 5 whom had quiet TCs apart from Jordan and Ho Grant. They managed to sign Doug West, John Salley, Nate McMillan and Michael Cage from FA after losing
most of their bench players last year to better paying teams. Campbell returns and looks like he could compete for the starting C position and Brent Price was acquired via the draft. The Raptors will be looking to Jordan once again to show them the way and hope that he, Pooh and Person can find the same form that got them to the
conference finals.
Midwest Division
Dallas Mavericks
Additions: Doug Christie, Litterial Green (Draft)
Subtractions: Manute Bol(Warriors), Derrick Gervin, Alec Kessler(FA), John Salley(Raptors), Sedale Threatt(Warriors), Gerald Wilkins, Herb Williams(FA), Gerald Henderson(retired)
Prjected SL:PG - Rod Strickland / SG - Rolando Blackman / SF - Doug Christie / PF - Rick Fox / C - Mark West
The Mavericks are in a bit of strife here, they some talented SG / SFs but noone up front other than Mark West. This is very unfortunate because Strickland had a remarkable TC but has noone to pass the ball to. Im sure the Mavs will get busy picking up players off the waiver wire to bolster their roster. The only new additions to
the team are SG Doug Christie whos def will be a welcome asset and PG Litterial Green. Their Front court players were all wooed away from the team to franchise such as the Warriors and Raptors, prob looking at winning a UOSLR Title and helping those teams out.
Denver Nuggets
Additions: Terrell Brandon(draft), Reggie Smith, Dave Johnson (draft), Ken Norman(FA), Danny Ferry( re-signed)
Subtractions: Ken Bannister, Winston Bennett, Lafayette Lever, Jeff Malone, Alan Ogg, (FA) Brad Davis(retired)
Projected SL: PG - Sherman Douglas / SG - Jimmy Jackson / SF - Ken Norman / PF - Dennis Scott / C - Vlade Divac
The Denver Nuggets look stronger this season than in seasons gone by. They managed to sign Ken Norman and drafted Terrell Brandon at 4 in this years draft. Their only weakness by the looks of it is at PF where Dennis Scott and Danny Ferry could share time at that position. Both are very good scorers but look at bit shakey at the
def and could leave a whole lot of cleaning up for Vlade to do down low. Ken Norman provides the Nuggets with a very good defender and a good inside scorer. Sherman Douglas could be trade bait (if they are looking at getting a PF) should the Nuggets administrators want to start Brandon this season. Brandon had a good TC
and will provide great competition at the PG spot. Jimmy Jackson improved his outside shot and will be the go to go should Divac get double teamed down low. Nice looking offseason for thi Nuggets.
Houston Rockets
Additions: Todd Day, Bryant Stith(Draft)
Subtractions: Vincent Peters, Brad Lohaus, Tim McCormick, Kevin Edwards, Drazen Petrovic(Sonics) Larry Drew(Retired)
Projected SL:PG - Kevin Johnson / SG - Xavier Mcdaniel / SF - Deflef Schrempf / PF - Dale Davis / C - Kevin Duckworth
Kevin Johnson and his Rockets had an average TC at best. Most of their players either stayed the same or decreased. I think its safe to say that the Rockets will be fighing for the £1 pick in the 93 draft. Kevin Johnson is their only standout player and Dale Davis is a TC or two away from showing us what he can really do. Xavier Mcdaniel, Detlef and Duckworth can all score inside but their def is whats going to let them down. They lost Drazen to the Sonics and the two SGs they drafted did little or next to nothing in TCs.
Minnesota Timberwolves
Additions: Nick Van Exel, Tom Gugliotta, Sean Rooks, Adam Keefe(draft)
Subtractions: William Bedford, Bill Cartwright, Greg Foster, Jerrod Mustaf, Randy White. (FA), Mychal Thompson ,Dave Corzine (Retired)
Projected SL:NVE / Steve Smith / Hu Weidong / Tom Googliotta / Kevin Willis.
The Timberwolves let go of a lot players this off season but added a bit of talent to their roster from the draft. They had the 7th, 13th and 16th and 36th picks in the draft and picked up Van Exel, Gugliotta, Rooks and Keefe. Out of those 4, Van Exel and Googs could be getting some quality minutes out of the PF/SF and PG positions. They have a host of SF/SGs and could look at making a move to bolster their front court. Or they could be happy and take their chances at Shaq. Elliot Perry had a great rookie season and with the arrival of NVE could see his minutes diminish or might be playing a back up PG / SG role.
San Antonio Spurs
Additions: Hot Rod Williams , Danny Schayes, Otis Smith(re-signed), Darrick Martin (Draft), Eric Leckner (FA), Isaiah Thomas, Eddie Lee Wilkins, Antoine Carr (Trade)
Subtractions: Ron Anderson, Steve Johnson(FA), Moses Malone (Retired), Mike Smrek,Greg Kite , Craig Hodges, Larry Stewart (Trade)
Projected SL: Mark Jackson / SG -Reggie Lewis / SF -Hot Rod Williams / PF - Antoine Carr / C - Patrick Ewing
Solid off season for the SPurs, they managed to re-sign most of their players from last season and picked up Eric Leckner from the FA period to replace the retired Moses Malone. Patrick Ewing returns and has another season with Reggie Lewis and Hot Rod Williams to try for another shot at the title. Mark Jackson leads the way from
the PG spot and Otis Smith could start at SG should the Spurs choose to go in that direction. They have some good depth up front with Leckner and Schayes and have Dawkins along with Avent providing relief from the bench for Smith and Jackson. The trade they made with the Grizz makes them very strong and possibly 2 deep at every position!! Very prominsing season ahead for the Spurs and should find themselves in the playoffs once again.
Utah Jazz
Additions: Clarence Weatherspoon, Tracy Murray, Jon Barry, Jeff Theiler(draft) , Jack Haley, Rodney Mcray (Re-signed),Bill Wennington , (FA)
Subtractions: Rickey Green(retired), Jack Peterson,Gary Grant(FA), John Shasky(Sonics)
Projected SL: PG - Rodney McCray / SG = Steve Kerr / SF - bOBBY Phills / PF - Jack Haley / C - Arvydas Sabonis
The jazz have taken an experimental approach to their lineup and hope it comes off. Big time scorer Rodney Mcray starts at PG with Kerr at SG. Their Rookies all had sub par TCs and with that could be looking to the lottery after their 1st sim. Their star C Sabonis looks good once again and will lead this team again this season. Hes
prob not one for rebuilding and could be looking for another team before the season is up. Overall this is a young team and needs to develop, this is going to be one of those season where they will be under going a steep learning cuve.
Vancouver Grizzlies
Additions: Steve Rogers(Draft), Darrell Griffith, Ralph Sampson, Mike Smrek,Greg Kite , Craig Hodges, Larry Stewart (Trade)
Subtractions: Ledell Eckler, Tim Legler, Stojan Vrankovic, David Wood (FA), James Edwards(Retired), Isaiah Thomas, Antoine Carr, Eddie Lee Wilkins (Trade)
Projected SL: PG - Doc Rivers / SG - Rickey Pierce / SF - Nique / PF - Mike Smrek / C - Ralph Sampson
The Grizzlies are currently going through a transition period with a their GM being fired and a new GM try to familiarise himself with his surroundings. The Grizzlies need to win or at least try and get their picks back. They missed out on the playoffs last season and their pick ended up being the 2nd pick in the draft and Jamal Mashburn. I dont think they have their picks for a few years yet so they need to win and keep on winning. Nique is their star and will need help from Pierce and the newly acquired Sampson to do that. They have also added Mike Smrek,Greg Kite , Craig Hodges, Larry Stewart in exchange for Thomas, Wilkins and Carr. The Grizzlies stated they mainly did it for the pick but they also receive some good depth. They have an aging line up and that could go against them if they look to trade some of their pieces away, This season should be an exciting one with a new GM and new direction.
Pacific Division
Golden State Warriors
Additions: Reggie Slater, Randy Woods (Draft), , Dale Ellis (FA), Lester Conner,Mark Eaton (Re-signed), Herb Williams , Sedale Threatt , Mark Aguirre , Kenny Gattison ,Manute Bol, Jayson Williams (FA)
Subtractions: Anthony Frederick(Clippers), Roy Hinson, J.R. Reid, Kenny Walker(FA),Jerry Reynolds( Pistons), Eddie Lee Wilkins(Clippers) Alton Lister(Retired)
Projected SL:[/u]PG - John Stockton / SG - Dale Ellis / SF -Dennis Rodman / PF - Brad Daugherty / C - Manute Bol
The Warriors had a busy FA period signing a host of players who can provide alot of depth and relief from the bench for the players. Dennis Rodman, Brad and Stockton are their key players this season. The signing of Manute Bol and Mark Eaton gives the Warriors a very big lineup should they both end up on the court at the same time. Dont waste your time goin down low with those two there. You wont come out alive lol. Dale Ellis provides an outside threat along with Del Curry. Dont be surpised if the Warriors are there in the post season once again.
Los Angeles Clippers
Additions: Mike Giminski , John Williams, Leron Ellis(re-signed), Eddie Johnson ,Danny Young, Vern Fleming , Bryan Croshere ,Anthony Frederick (FA), Kevin Mchale(Trade)
Subtractions: Alvaro Teheran, Gerald Glass, AC Green(Knicks), Jeff Martin, Nate McMillan(Raptors), Ed Pinkney(Sonics), Larry Smith (FA)
Projected SL: PG - Terry Porter / SG - Eddie Johnson / SF - David Benoit / PF - Wayman Tisdale / C - Kevin Mchale
The Clippers had a nice offseason and have just acquired Mchale in a trade with the Grizzlies. This gives them a very good post player along with Tisdale down low. They also have John Williams off the bench who will provide the spark and give no less than the two starters. David Benoit, Eddie Johnson and Terry Porter round out
the rest of the SL. They lost some key players such as AC Green and Nate Mcmillan but managed to get Vern Flemming , Travis Mays and Danny Young. Exciting times for the Clippers orgainsation.
Los Angeles Lakers
Additions: Harold Miner, Marcus Webb,(Draft), Johnny Newman(re-signed)
Subtractions: Jon Koncak, Ala Abdulnaby, Mahmoud Abdul Rauf(Heat), Todd Lichti(Celtics)
Projected SL: PG - Michael Adams / SG - Harold Miner / SF - Johnny Newman / PF - Mark Bryant / C - Pervis Ellison
Lakers like the look of Harold Miner, Lakers GM did not like the drops for Adams in outside scoring and handling but was pleased with Newmans scoring burst. Could this be the year the Lakers make a run for the playoffs? They have some decent depth with Anthony, Green and Ansley coming off the bench. They could eagerly be
awaiting 1 pm to sign a few more players to bolster their roster. Pervis Ellison still looks like a very good post player defensively, dont look to the PF or C for offense although rookie Marcus Webb looks like an above average inside scorer.
Phoenix Suns
Additions: Walt Williams, Christian Laettner, Elmore Spencer (Draft), Duanne Causwell, Buck Williams,Alvin Robertson. ,George McCloud (re-signed), Scott Williams(FA)
Subtractions: Milos Babic, Terry Catledge, Sydney Green
Projected SL: PG- Mookie Blaylock / SG- Hersey Hawkins / SF - George MCloud / PF - Christian Laettner / C - Derrick Coleman
Phoenix had a solid draft this year, they managed to get some solid team players in Walt Williams and Christian Laettner and space eater Elmore Spencer. They were happy to welcome back 6th man of the year Buck Williams and Alvin Robertson during FA and have a very nice looking line - up for the beginning of the season. If any of the starters lose form, then their understudies will be more than capable to step in. The PG and SG look to be their strongest position this season.
Portland Trailblazers
Additions: Thurl Bailey,Andre Turner (re-signed), Mark Strickland(Draft), Liam Polynice, Tyler Gomelsky (FA)
Subtractions: Justin Fox, Darren Loefler, Byron Irvin, Henry James(FA)
Projected SL: PG -Dee Brown / SG - Clyde Drexler / SF - Thurl Bailey / PF - Cadillac Anderson / C - Benoit Benjamin
The Blazers have some good depth and will be looking at the playoffs again this season. The players didnt do too well in training camps, with most of the players either staying the same or having minor changes in their ratings. Drexler and Benjamin will be the key players this season and will have help from Dee Brown, Ty Corbin and Thurl Bailey. Benjamin is one of the better Cs in this league and could challenge for def player of the year with the A+ def rating he has.. If Ty Corbins starts over Bailey, the Blazers starting lineup will have A- or better def ratings and that can cause major problems for opposing teams. Offense wins games , but def wins championships,
maybe the Blazers have that Defense.
Sacramento Kings
Additions: Sleepy Floyd(Re-signed), Matt Steigenga (Draft)
Subtractions: Tanner Mickael, Michael Cage(Raptors), Adrian Caldwell, Terry Davis(FA), Kenny Gattison(Warriors), Robert Parish(retired)
Projected SL: PG - Magic Johnson / SG - Reggie Theus / SF - Ron Harper / PF - Matt Steigenga / C - Danny Manning
With the retirement of Robert Parrish, the Kings needed to find a C to replace him. They lost most of their front court players to FA and have still no C to start for them. They have a 7 man roster and will be looking at when the FA period opens for them to sign some players. Magic Johnson, Derek Harper and Danny Manning are their
teams focus and if they can get a decent C and some depth, the Kings could be very dangerous. Their main focus is their front court, if this is addressed then they should do well this season.
Seattle Supersonics
Additions: Will Purdue (re-signed), Drazen Petrovic, , Rod Higgins, John Shasky, Jim Les, Ed Pinckney (FA)
Subtractions: Tyler Gomeski(Blazers), Dale Ellis (Warriors) , Duane Schnitzius, Irving Thomas, Trent Tucker,(FA) Danny Young (Clippers)
Projected SL:: [/i]PG - Gary Payton / SG - Drazen Petrovic / SF -Ed Pinkney / PF - Roy Tarpley / C - Brian Williams
Best pick up of FA was the signing of Drazen Petrovic from the Rockets. He had a very good TC along with the rest of the team. After missing out on bidding on day 1, the sonics recovered to sign some key players in FA and have a nice looking roster going into the 1st sim of the season. Coming off the bench will be John Starks, Derrick Mckey, John Shasky and Rod Higgins. The Sonics could be a dark horse to come out of the West. Gary Payton looks like a star for the future and with Drazen, makes a great combo. The Fans in Seattle are very excited.
Thank you for reading once again, hope you enjoyed it, saga etc.. signing out for UOSLR
, updated with the Grizz and Spurs trade
