NBA: The Modern Game Era

[Bobby Barrows]

Lakers in 6 (Larry Bird)

MVP: Bernard King

 

[AlanSmithee1981]

Celtics in 7.
MVP: Larry Bird
Scoring: Bernard King

 

[Bobby Barrows]

Basically if I'm wrong on the Lakers, I lose this

 

[RDT]

(All Box Scores to be added after the end of the season)

Game 1 - #3 Los Angeles Lakers at #2 Boston Celtics

In a commanding start to the 1986 NBA Finals, the Boston Celtics dominated the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 1. Larry Bird was in top form, putting up 29 points, 17 rebounds, and 5 assists, leading the Celtics to a comfortable victory.

Despite a solid performance from Bernard King, who scored 25 points, the Lakers struggled to find their footing. Magic Johnson had a particularly tough game, managing just 6 points along with 8 rebounds and 8 assists.

This victory gives the Celtics a 1-0 series lead as they look to maintain their home court advantage in the upcoming games.

CELTICS 119, Lakers 94 (Celtics lead 1-0)

Lakers Stats
Bernard King: 25 PTS, 4 STL, 10/15 FG
Magic Johnson: 6 PTS, 8 REB, 8 AST, 5 STL

Celtics Stats
Larry Bird: 29 PTS, 17 REB, 5 AST, 8/15 FG, 3/3 3P, 10/12 FT
Larry Nance: 23 PTS, 5 REB, 6 AST, 2 STL, 2 BLK, 8/14 FG
Purvis Short: 19 PTS, 6 REB, 2 STL

***

Game 2 - #3 Los Angeles Lakers at #2 Boston Celtics (Celtics lead 1-0)

In Game 2 of the 1986 NBA Finals, the Boston Celtics delivered another commanding performance, defeating the Los Angeles Lakers to take a 2-0 series lead. Boston's Big 3 of Larry Bird, Larry Nance, and Purvis Short were the difference makers, amassing a combined 88 points to steer the Celtics to victory.

The Lakers, despite notable efforts from Bernard King, Magic Johnson, and Robert Parish, couldn't match the intensity and scoring prowess of the Celtics. King led the Lakers with 27 points, 6 rebounds, and 7 assists, Johnson contributed with a double-double of 13 points and 12 assists, while Parish added 23 points and 8 rebounds.

Nevertheless, the series is far from over. The action now shifts to Los Angeles for three consecutive games, providing the Lakers an opportunity to turn things around on their home court.

CELTICS 121, Lakers 106 (Celtics lead 2-0)

Lakers Stats
Bernard King: 27 PTS, 6 REB, 7 AST
Magic Johnson: 13 PTS, 6 REB, 12 AST
Robert Parish: 23 PTS, 8 REB, 2 STL

Celtics Stats
Larry Bird: 28 PTS, 7 REB, 9 AST, 4 STL, 11/15 FG
Larry Nance: 30 PTS, 10 REB, 5 AST, 4 BLK, 15/21 FG
Purvis Short: 30 PTS, 10 REB, 3/5 3P

***

Game 3 - #2 Boston Celtics at #3 Los Angeles Lakers (Celtics lead 2-0)

The Celtics looked to do everything they could to go up 3-0, but the Lakers did not roll over like they had in Games 1 and 2. The Celtics had a lead late, but LA kept fighting.

With 2:49 left though, Gus Williams hit a jumper to put Boston up 95-90. Bernard King failed to follow up and Larry Bird got to the free throw line. Bird pushed the lead to 97-90 as the LA Forum grew silent. Magic Johnson kept his cool though, finding Robert Parish to cut the lead to five. Purvis Short got to the line and hit one-of-two free throws, pushing the lead back to six. Magic tries to score himself, but Larry Smith draws the charge, leading to huge boos and an irate Pat Riley. Short would get to the free throw line again and it was Boston 100, LA 92 with just 1:30 left.

The Celtics make him work for it, but King scores to make it 100-94. Short gets to the line again, but he misses both! Magic brings it back down the court and hits a short jumper to make it 100-96 with 36 seconds left! Larry Nance turns the ball over to Robert Parish! The Lakers unfortunately waste a lot of time trying to get a good shot and Parish misses. King grabs the board and manages a layup…but the clock has trickled down to a second…and the Celtics run out the clock, surviving with a two-point victory.

This is obviously a devastating result for the Lakers, as Boston now leads 3-0.

Celtics 100, LAKERS 98 (Celtics lead 3-0)

Celtics Stats
Larry Bird: 15 PTS, 8 REB, 4 AST, 2 STL
Larry Nance: 23 PTS, 2 STL, 3 BLK, 9/13 FG
Purvis Short: 25 PTS, 4 REB, 5 AST

Lakers Stats
Bernard King: 40 PTS, 10 REB, 5 AST
Magic Johnson: 17 PTS, 9 REB, 13 AST, 2 STL
Robert Parish: 18 PTS, 7 REB, 4 STL, 2 BLK

***

Game 4 - #2 Boston Celtics at #3 Los Angeles Lakers (Celtics lead 3-0)

Game 4 of the 1986 NBA Finals saw the Lakers stave off a potential sweep, as they delivered a commanding victory over the Boston Celtics. An early surge of energy and Larry Bird's foul trouble proved beneficial for the Lakers, who managed to control the game from the outset.

Magic Johnson had a standout performance with 14 assists, facilitating for his teammates and contributing significantly to Bernard King's 31 points and Robert Parish's 26 points. The Celtics struggled in comparison, with their star player, Larry Bird, managing just 6 points due to his foul issues.

Despite this victory, the Lakers still face a significant challenge, being down 3-1 in the series. They'll need to win Game 5 to extend the series and return to Boston. For the Celtics, they are just one win away from securing the NBA Championship.

LAKERS 112, Celtics 89 (Celtics lead 3-1)

Celtics Stats
Larry Bird: 6 PTS, 7 REB, 6 AST
Larry Nance: 19 PTS, 11 REB, 4 AST
Purvis Short: 16 PTS

Lakers Stats
Bernard King: 31 PTS, 10 REB, 5 AST
Robert Parish: 26 PTS, 4 REB, 2 STL, 11/15 FG
Magic Johnson: 14 PTS, 8 REB, 14 AST

***

Game 5 - #2 Boston Celtics at #3 Los Angeles Lakers (Celtics lead 3-1)

In what was undoubtedly their most crucial game of the series so far, the Lakers came out with all guns blazing in Game 5 of the 1986 NBA Finals, pushing the series to a sixth game. They led the Celtics through three quarters, and then pulled away in the fourth to secure their survival.

Bernard King was the star of the show, utterly outplaying Larry Bird with a near triple-double performance of 35 points, 14 rebounds, and 9 assists. Bird, on the other hand, struggled to make his mark on the game. Magic Johnson also had a stellar game, recording a triple-double of his own with 23 points, 11 rebounds, and 15 assists.

Larry Nance tried his best to bring the title home for Boston, putting up a strong 35-point, 14-rebound performance, but it was not enough on the night. Despite the loss, Boston still holds the advantage with Games 6 and 7 in Boston. However, the Lakers have shown they're not going down without a fight.

LAKERS 120, Celtics 111 (Celtics lead 3-2)

Celtics Stats
Larry Bird: 10 PTS, 6 REB, 9 AST, 4 STL
Larry Nance: 35 PTS, 14 REB, 4 STL, 2 BLK, 16/25 FG
Purvis Short: 24 PTS
Gus Williams: 18 PTS

Lakers Stats
Bernard King: 35 PTS, 14 REB, 9 AST, 2 STL
Robert Parish: 25 PTS, 12 REB, 2 BLK, 12/23 FG
Magic Johnson: 23 PTS, 11 REB, 15 AST, 2 STL

***

Game 6 - #3 Los Angeles Lakers at #2 Boston Celtics (Celtics lead 3-2)

With the NBA Finals back in Boston, most expected the Celtics to finish off LA with ease, but shockingly the Lakers started hot with a 35-17 quarter. It didn’t quite finish off the Celtics though, as Boston spent the entire game crawling back. In fact, the Lakers began to fall completely apart in the fourth quarter. The Lakers led 85-76 heading into the fourth before Boston unleashed holy hell. In seven minutes, the Celtics went on a 35-18 run after a Purvis Short three. After leading the whole way, the Lakers had blown the lead and Boston was up 111-103 with 5:10 left.

The Lakers though did not give up. They went on a run of their own, scoring eight straight points capped by an Elvin Hayes tip in to tie the game at 111. Larry Bird, struggling for the third-straight game, hits a big shot to make it 113-111. Hayes, in the twilight of his career, responds to tie the game with just 3 minutes left. Boston and LA trade baskets a couple of times, leading to Magic Johnson tying the game at 117 with two free throws. 2:15 left.

The Lakers and Celtics get stops, but then Cliff Levingston fouls Gus Williams. Gus makes both free throws and Boston goes up 119-117 with just 1:12 left. The Lakers end up going to Robert Parish, their off-season trade acquisition, who draws a foul on a shot attempt. He only makes one, allowing Boston to hold a 119-118 lead with 48 seconds left. The Lakers make a huge stop, forcing a Larry Nance miss. 24 seconds left and Magic finds Bernard King, but King’s lay-up misses and there’s no foul call…but as time expires Magic grabs the rebounds and puts a shot up…AND IT GOES IN! Lakers win! Boston Garden is left in shock as the Lakers steal Game 6, and have brought back an 0-3 deficit to a 3-3 series tie! We’re going to Game 7!

Lakers 120, CELTICS 119 (Series tied 3-3)

Lakers Stats
Bernard King: 43 PTS, 10 REB, 3 STL
Magic Johnson: 24 PTS, 11 REB, 11 AST, 7/9 FG
Robert Parish: 20 PTS, 6 REB, 1 STL, 1 BLK, 7/13 FG

Celtics Stats
Larry Bird: 13 PTS, 8 REB, 6 AST
Larry Nance: 34 PTS, 13 REB, 4 AST, 14/20 FG
Purvis Short: 19 PTS, 9 REB, 5 AST, 1 STL, 1 BLK
Gus Williams: 22 PTS, 4 AST, 3 STL

***

Game 7 - #3 Los Angeles Lakers at #2 Boston Celtics (Series tied 3-3)

Game 7 of the NBA Finals. For the second season in a row the Lakers found themselves in a Game 7 for all the marbles. The Celtics though looked to shut down any Laker momentum early on as they poured in 80 first-half points and led 80-63. But the Lakers, who after a horrid start to the series have shown a historic level of resilience, came back with a big third. Heading into the fourth, the Lakers had all the momentum, down just two points after being down almost twenty.

But they never got closer.

After a three-game swoon MVP Larry Bird finished off the Lakers, tallying 35 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists with 4 threes. The Lakers finally couldn’t contain Bird anymore, and with Larry Nance going off for another 30 (and arguably being robbed for Finals MVP) the Lakers just couldn’t hang on for the second straight game in Boston. Magic Johnson had a triple-double, but Gus Williams dropped 26 on his end. It was an amazing effort from the Lakers to get back into the series, but their quest for a three-peat ends in the last game of the season as the Boston Celtics win their 15th NBA Championship. Bird was awarded his second Finals MVP.

For prediction purposes, Bernard King led the series with 236 points.

CELTICS 135, Lakers 118 (Celtics win 4-3)

Lakers Stats
Bernard King: 35 PTS, 7 REB, 4 AST
Magic Johnson: 17 PTS, 11 REB, 14 AST, 2 BLK
Robert Parish: 21 PTS, 5 REB

Celtics Stats
Larry Bird: 35 PTS, 9 REB, 5 AST, 4/7 3P, 14/24 FG
Larry Nance: 30 PTS, 14 REB, 4 AST, 14/20 FG
Gus Williams: 26 PTS, 4 REB, 6 AST

Prediction Contest – RESULTS

1st Round – Picking the Winning Team is worth 10 Points, Picking the Highest Point Scorer in the Series is worth 3 Points, Picking the Exact Amount of Games is worth 2 Points

Results

The winning picks are:

Mavericks, 4, Worthy
Spirits, 3, Ellis
Kings, 3, Tripucka
Lakers, 4, King
Cavaliers, 4, English
Nets, 4, D. Wilkins
Celtics, 3, Bird
Heat, 5, M. Jordan

Grim: Mavericks in 4 (12), Dale Ellis (3), Kings in 3 (12), Lakers (10), Cavs in 4 (12), Nets and Dominique Wilkins (13), Larry Bird (3), Heat and Michael Jordan (13): 78

Alan: Mavericks (10), Dale Ellis (3), Kings in 3 (12), Lakers and Bernard King (13), Cavs in 4 (12), Dominique Wilkins (3), Celtics and Larry Bird (13), Heat in 5 and Michael Jordan (15): 81

Dubb: Mavericks (10), Spirits and Dale Ellis (13), Kings (10), Lakers in 4 and Bernard King (15), Cavs (10), Nets and Dominique Wilkins (13), Celtics and Larry Bird (13), Heat and Michael Jordan (13): 97

Dubb leads with a strong 97 in the opening round!

Semi-Finals – Picking the Winning Team is worth 25 Points, , Picking the leading scorer of the series is worth 7 points, and Picking the Exact Amount of Games is worth 5 Points

The winning picks are:

Mavericks, 7, Ellis
Lakers, 7, King
Cavaliers, 7, McHale
Celtics, 7, Jordan

Grim: Mavericks (25), Lakers in 7 (30), Cavs and McHale (32), Jordan (7) = 94 + 78 = 172

Alan: Ellis (5), Cavs and McHale (32), Jordan (7) = 44 + 81 = 125

Dubb: Ellis (5), Cavs (25), Celtics in 7 (30) = 60 + 97 = 157

A big Semis from Grim takes the lead heading into the Conference Finals!

Conference Finals – Picking the Winning is worth 50 Points, Picking the leading scorer of the series is worth 15 points, Picking the Exact Amount of Games is worth 10 Points

The winning picks are:

Lakers, 6, King
Celtics, 6, Bird

Grim: Lakers (50), King (15), Celtics (50), Bird (15) = 130+172 = 302

Alan: Lakers (50), 6 (10), King (15), Celtics (50), Bird (15) = 140+125=265

Dubb: King (15), Bird (15) = 157+30 = 187

A rough Conference Finals for Dubb. Grim and Alan now look to capture their 2nd title, barring some miracle comeback from Dubb.

NBA Finals – Picking the Winning Team is Worth 100 Points, , Picking the leading scorer of the series is worth 25 Points, Picking the Exact Amount of Games is worth 20 Points

Guessing the Finals MVP: Worth 30 Points

The winning picks are:

Celtics, 7, Scorer: King, MVP: Bird

@Grim : 0+302 = 302

@AlanSmithee1981 : Celtics (100), 7 (20), Scorer King (25), MVP Bird (30) = 175 + 265 = 440

@Dubble J : Celtics (100), MVP Bird (30) = 130 +187 = 317

Winning the Competition Each Year: Worth +10%

Congratulations to @AlanSmithee1981 on putting together a PERFECT NBA Finals to win the 1986 Playoffs! With the 10% bonus you will receive 484 points!

@Dubble J : 2,216 Points (5x Champion (1x Season, 4x Playoffs): 1986 Season, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1985 Playoffs)
1981 Playoffs: 302 (Champion)
1982 Playoffs: 237 (Champion)
1983 Playoffs: 269 (Champion)
1984 Playoffs: 220
1985 Playoffs: 422 (Champion)
1986 Regular Season: 459 (Champion)
1986 Playoffs: 317

@Alansmithee: 1474 Points (2x Champion (2x Playoffs): 1984, 1986 Playoffs)
1983 Playoffs: 215
1984 Playoffs: 394 (Champion)
1985 Playoffs: 381
1986 Playoffs: 484 (Champion)

@BattleTank : 411 Points
1986 Regular Season: 411
@Grim : 447 Points (1x Champion (1x Playoffs): 1980 Playoffs)
1980 Playoffs: 55 (Champion)
1981 Playoffs: 90
1986 Playoffs: 302

@Joey Bananas : 55 Points
1981 Playoffs: 55

The goal for prediction results: when we get into the late 2020s and 2030s, to allow users to create their own rookies based on the prediction points they built up.

Stats Site

​

 

[Bobby Barrows]

 

[RDT]

All boxes updated for 1986! We'll take a small break before we get into 1987!

 

[RDT]

1986 NBA Off-Season

There is some big team news for the 1986 off-season. The San Diego Clippers move to Anaheim to become the Light. Next season, the Orlando Magic and Minnesota Timberwolves will join the NBA, bringing the amount of teams to 28. The NBA will stay with 28 teams for two years until the Charlotte Hornets and Las Vegas Enterprise join the league. The NBA salary cap rises again, this time to $8,000,000, as salaries continue to rise.

There were four significant retirements this off-season. Elvin Hayes retires from the Lakers as the 5th highest scorer in NBA/ABA history with 27,620 points. Dave Cowens, the Boston Celtic legend of the 70s who won a title and a MVP, called it a career after spending years on the Celtic bench. Cowens retires as a three-time NBA Champion. Dan Issel scored 23,636 points, mostly for the Denver Nuggets as he retired. Lastly, Swen Nater called it a career. Nater was an early top rebounder for the ABA and finished his career in the 10K-point, 10K-rebound club.

There were several coaching changes this off-season. Larry Brown bolted Phoenix to take a new job in Philadelphia once Matt Guokas was dismissed. Cotton Fitzsimmons replaced Brown for the Suns. Don Nelson is out in Indiana. Nelson had led the Pacers to the Eastern Conference Finals in 1983. Bob Hill will replace him. Hill was a New York Knicks assistant. Jack McKinney departs Denver and is replaced by Lakers assistant Dave Wohl. Lastly, Bill Musselman is gone in Milwaukee, replaced by Bullets assistant Bernie Bickerstaff.

The NBA Draft Lottery was next. There are several interesting talents in this year’s draft. The top 6, in some way, include centers Brad Daugherty, the mysterious Arvydas Sabonis, and Chris Washburn. Rounding out the list of top prospects are Len Bias, Chuck Person and Ron Harper.

Draft Lottery
1 – Philadelphia 76ers
2 – Denver Nuggets (from Seattle)
3 – Denver Nuggets
4 – Milwaukee Bucks
5 – Seattle Supersonics (from Indiana)
6 – New York Knicks
7 – Phoenix Suns
8 – Sacramento Kings (from San Antonio)
9 – New Orleans Jazz
10 – Anaheim Light

And here is how the Lottery played out:

#10 - Light
#9 – Jazz
#8 – Kings (from SAS)
#7 – Knicks (-1)

The Suns now have an opportunity to add a top prospect with Clyde Drexler.

#6 – Sonics (-1)
#5 – Bucks (-1)
#4 – Nuggets (From SEA) (-2)

The Nuggets lose one of their top 3 spots to Phoenix.

#3 – Suns (+4)
#2 – Nuggets (+1)

The worst team in the league, the Philadelphia 76ers, will have a chance to rebuild their franchise with the top selection.

#1 – Sixers

Draft Order

1 – Sixers
2 – Nuggets (+1)
3 – Suns (+4)
4 – Nuggets (From SEA) (-2)
5 – Bucks (-1)
6 – Sonics (From IND) (-1)
7 – Knicks (-1)
8 – Kings (From SAS)
9 – Jazz
10 – Light
11 – Bullets
12 – Stallions
13 – Sonics (From HOU)
14 – Nuggets (From GSW)
15 – Trail Blazers
16 – Spirits
17 – Sonics (From ATL)
18 – Heat
19 – Sixers (From LAL)
20 – Bulls
21 – Pistons
22 – Nets
23 – Kings
24 – Celtics
25 – Cavaliers
26 – Mavericks

#1 – 76ers – Len Bias
#2 – Nuggets – Chris Washburn
#3 – Suns – Arvydas Sabonis
#4 – Nuggets – Ron Harper
#5 Bucks – Chuck Person
#6 – Sonics – Brad Daugherty

Biggest surprise that of the top six prospects, Daugherty ends up going 6th. He was the favorite to go #1.

#7 – Knicks – Roy Tarpley
#8 – Kings – Kenny Walker
#9 – Jazz – John Salley
#10 – Light – William Bedford
#11 – Bullets – Jeff Hornacek
#12 – Stallions – Brad Sellers
#13 – Sonics – Dell Curry
#14 – Nuggets – Johnny Dawkins
#15 – Trail Blazers – Johnny Newman
#16 – Spirits – Walter Berry
#17 – Sonics – Scott Skiles
#18 – Heat – Kevin Duckworth
#19 – 76ers – Greg Dreiling
#20 – Bulls – Larry Krystkowiak
#21 – Pistons – Harold Pressley
#22 – Nets – David Wingate
#23 – Kings – Nate McMillan
#24 – Celtics – John Williams
#25 – Cavaliers – Pearl Washington
#26 – Mavericks – Mark Alarie

Free Agency

While not the strongest free agent class, there were still some moves that will make a big impact in the 1986-1987 season. Four players inked max contracts, crossing $20,000,000 total for the first time in league history. Here is a list of notable contracts signed this off-season, with players who switched teams in italics.

Dominique Wilkins – Bulls 7/$20,300,000
Terry Cummings – Bulls – 7/$20,300,000
Ricky Pierce – Rockets – 7/$20,300,000
James Worthy – Mavericks – 7/$20,300,000
Fat Lever – Pistons – 6/$15,600,000
Dennis Johnson – Pistons – 5/$11,340,000
Mark Eaton – Spirits – 5/$9,500,000
Brad Davis – Suns – 4/$4,800,000
Craig Hodges – Suns – 4/$4,441,254
Vinnie Johnson – Bulls – 3/$3,900,000
Paul Pressey – Pacers – 3/$3,900,000
Dudley Bradley – Warriors – 3/$3,900,000
LaSalle Thompson – 3/$3,300,000
Marques Johnson – Lakers – 3/$3,000,000
Gus Williams – Celtics – 2/$800,000
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar – Knicks – 1/$500,000

Two major trades took place after free agency.

Trade

Rockets get: 1987 Suns 1st Round Pick, 1988 Suns 1st Round Pick, Mike Woodson, Charles Oakley and Kevin Wiilis

Suns get: Ricky Pierce and Jack Sikma

The Rockets go younger as the Suns add a scoring All-Star to compliment Drexler, as well as solve the Sabonis-Willis issue.

Trade

Knicks get: Fat Lever, Earl Evans, Harold Pressley, and 1989 Pistons 1st Round Pick

Pistons get: Micheal Ray Richardson and David Thompson

Detroit goes all-in to try to win the NBA title as an era in New York officially comes to a close.

1986-1987 Preview is Next!

Stats Site​

 

[RDT]

1986-1987 Season Preview

Eastern Conference

Atlantic Division

Baltimore Bullets
1986 Record: 35-47 (4th in Atlantic, Lost to Cavs in Round 1)
Head Coach: Mike Fratello (4th Year)
Key Players: Sam Bowie (13 PPG, 10 RPG, 2.3 BPG), Alex English (24 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 4 APG, 1 SPG), Eddie Johnson (18.7 PPG, 7.4 RPG), Jeff Hornacek (#11 Draft Pick)

A small improvement and a mid-season trade got the Bullets back into the playoffs. Sam Bowie showed a lot of improvement, which has to be exciting for Baltimore fans.

Boston Celtics
1986 Record: 57-25 (1st in Atlantic, Won NBA Title)
Head Coach: K.C. Jones (6th Year)
Key Players: Larry Bird (30.5 PPG, 10.5 RPG, 6.5 APG, 1.7 SPG, 51.7% FG, 93.8% FT, 37.2% 3P, MVP), Larry Nance (18.9 PPG, 9.5 RPG, 1.8 BPG, 50.4% FG), Purvis Short (18.5 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 1.2 SPG)

Larry Bird won his 3rd MVP and the Celtics took down another NBA Championship. Bird, Purvis Short and Larry Nance are all in the prime of their careers, although Gus Williams is starting to show his age. Would not be a surprise to see Boston repeat nonetheless.

Miami Heat
1986 Record: 53-29 (3rd in Atlantic, Lost to Celtics in ECSF)
Head Coach: Chuck Daly (7th Year)
Key Players: Michael Jordan (31.4 PPG, 7.6 RPG, 6.4 APG, 2.5 SPG, 56% FG), Sam Perkins (15.9 PPG, 8.3 RPG), Xavier McDaniel (13.8 PPG, 7.1 RPG)

The Heat nearly knocked off the eventual NBA Champions in the Eastern Conference Semi-Finals. With Michael Jordan on the team, the sky is the limit. They could use some help from Derek Harper, who has disappointed so far.

New Jersey Nets
1986 Record: 56-26 (2nd in Atlantic, lost to Cavs in ECSF)
Head Coach: Phil Jackson (5th Year)
Key Players: Moses Malone (14.1 PPG, 11.1 RPG, 1.1 BPG), Cliff Robinson (18.2 PPG, 8.9 RPG, 1.3 SPG, 1.3 BPG), Calvin Natt (16.9 PPG, 5.2 RPG), Sidney Moncrief (20.5 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 5 APG, 3 SPG)

The pieces are there, but the Nets have struggled to get through the tough Eastern Conference each year. They had the Cavs on the ropes before Cleveland completed the 3-1 comeback. The Nets do lose some defense as Dudley Bradley left in free agency.

New York Knicks
1986 Record: 25-57 (5th in Atlantic, Missed Playoffs)
Head Coach: Jerry Sloan (5th Year)
Key Players: Fat Lever (11.4 PPG, 9.8 RPG, 10.2 APG, 2.1 SPG), Antoine Carr (15.5 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 49.9% FG), Roy Tarpley (#7 Overall Pick)

After a disastrous season an era in New York is over. With Micheal Ray and Skywalker off to Detroit, the Knicks will run through Fat Lever and look to rebuild.

Philadelphia 76ers
1986 Record: 20-62 (6th in Atlantic, Missed Playoffs)
Head Coach: Larry Brown (1st Year)
Key Players: Len Bias (#1 Overall Pick), Manute Bol (6.8 RPG, 4.6 BPG), Wayne Cooper (13 PPG, 11.3 RPG, 2.2 BPG), Maurice Cheeks (15.8 PPG, 6.2 APG, 1.9 SPG)

The Sixers parlayed the worst record in basketball into Len Bias. We will see if that turns out to be the correct choice. The Sixers have an interesting mix of young players and veterans from a championship era earlier this decade (Cheeks and Dr. J are still here). We’ll see if they can make their way back to the playoffs.

Eastern Conference

Central Division

Atlanta Hawks
1986 Record: 48-34 (4th in Central, Lost to Celtics in Round 1)
Head Coach: Phil Johnson (4th Year)
Key Players: Bill Laimbeer (16 PPG, 10.9 RPG, 2 BPG), Karl Malone (15 PPG, 7.6 RPG, 1.1 SPG, 52.2% FG), Mark Aguirre (16.5 PPG, 5.5 RPG)

The Hawks returned to the playoffs thanks to their veteran core and rookie Karl Malone. With Aguirre locked up for 6 more years this is the likely core that Atlanta will use to try to contend, and if Malone can take another step they’ll be on the right path.

Chicago Bulls
1986 Record: 54-28 (3rd in Central, Lost to Nets in Round 1)
Head Coach: Paul Westhead (5th Year)
Key Players: Dominique Wilkins (33.1 PPG, 7.7 RPG, 1.6 SPG, 54.2% FG), Terry Cummings (19.8 PPG, 8.5 RPG), Vinnie Johnson (15.6 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 3.8 APG), Johnny Moore (9 PPG, 9.3 APG, 1.9 SPG)

In a disappointing follow-up to the Finals appearance in 1985, the Bulls lost to the Nets in Round 1 of the playoffs. Nonetheless, but Bulls shelled out two max contracts, one to Dominique Wilkins and the other to Terry Cummings. The pressure to win the title is on.

Cleveland Cavaliers
1986 Record: 59-23 (1st in Central, Lost to Celtics in ECF)
Head Coach: Stan Albeck (8th Year)
Key Players: Kevin McHale (23.6 PPG, 11.5 RPG, 1.4 SPG, 50.4% FG), Rolando Blackman (19.5 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 3.4 APG), Orlando Woolridge (18.5 PPG, 8.5 RPG, 1.4 BPG, 54.1% FG), Jim Paxson (13.5 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 3.6 APG, 1.6 SPG)

Cleveland took the next step toward contention and had they not run into Bird and the Celtics they might have a NBA Title right now. They bring back the same trio in Kevin McHale, Rolando Blackman and Orlando Woolridge, we’ll see if they can take the next step and make it to the Finals.

Detroit Pistons
1986 Record: 56-26 (2nd in Central, Lost to Heat in Round 1)
Head Coach: Lenny Wilkens (3rd Year)
Key Players: Tom Chambers (33.2 PPG, 8.7 RPG, 49.8% FG), Michael Cooper (15.4 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 4.7 APG, 2.4 SPG, 1.2 BPG), Dennis Johnson (14.9 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 4.1 APG, 2 BPG), Micheal Ray Richardson (20.8 PPG, 10.1 RPG, 9.5 APG, 1.7 SPG), David Thompson (21 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 3.1 APG)

The Pistons ran into a buzzsaw named Michael Jordan in Round 1. They took their off-season seriously though, making a blockbuster trade with New York to land Micheal Ray Richardson and David Thompson.

Indiana Pacers
1986 Record: 23-59 (6th in Central, Missed Playoffs)
Head Coach: Bob Hill (1st Year)
Key Players: James Edwards (14.8 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 1.2 BPG), James Bailey (13.7 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 1.6 BPG)

It’s rebuilding time for the Pacers.

Milwaukee Bucks
1986 Record: 23-59 (7th in Central, Missed Playoffs)
Head Coach: Bernie Bickerstaff (1st Year)
Key Players: Chuck Person (#5 Overall Pick)

The Bucks usher in the Chuck Person era.

New Orleans Jazz
1986 Record: 32-50 (5th in Central)
Head Coach: Dick Motta (4th Year)
Key Players: Charles Barkley (16.8 PPG, 10.3 RPG, 1.5 SPG), Detlef Schrempf #15.5 PPG, 6.2 RPG), Jeff Malone (16.1 PPG), Bill Cartwright (13 PPG)

The Jazz nearly doubled their highest ever win count and flirted with the #8 seed. Charles Barkley and Detlef Schrempf look like real keepers. Jeff Malone has talent too, but needs to hit a higher % from the field. The Jazz also add Bill Cartwright, a veteran presence that may get them into the playoffs.

Western Conference

Midwest Division

Dallas Mavericks
1986 Record: 63-19 (1st in Midwest, Lost to Lakers in WCF)
Head Coach: Bill Fitch (2nd Year)
Key Players: Ralph Sampson (20.8 PPG, 9.1 RPG, 2 BPG, 54.8% FG), James Worthy (21.8 PPG, 8.3 RPG, 1.4 SPG, 1.2 BPG, 52.8% FG), Isiah Thomas (20.3 PPG, 12.7 APG, 2.7 SPG, 49.1% FG)

The Mavericks had title on their mind, but perhaps the playoff injury to Ralph Sampson opened the door enough for the Lakers to take them down. That’s two seasons in a row where an injury hurt Dallas’ chances to win the NBA Title but make no mistake, this is a championship level team.

Denver Nuggets
1986 Record: 22-60 (6th in Midwest, Missed Playoffs)
Head Coach: Dave Wohl (1st Year)
Key Players: Joe Barry Carroll (15.7 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 1 BPG), Chris Washburn (#2 Overall Pick), Ron Harper (#4 Overall Pick), John Drew (16.5 PPG, 6.4 RPG, 1.4 SPG)

The Nuggets added three top 15 picks to their roster this season. Chris Washburn, Ron Harper and Johnny Dawkins will all get minutes in what they hope is the start of a journey back to relevancy and contention.

Houston Rockets
1986 Record: 40-42 (3rd in Central, Lost to Kings in Round 1)
Head Coach: Jim Lynam (4th Year)
Key Players: Kevin Willis (12 PPG, 8.7 RPG), Kelly Tripucka (21.5 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 4.1 APG, 1.2 SPG), Mike Woodson (15 PPG, 4 RPG, 2.3 SPG), Darrell Griffith (18 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 1.8 SPG)

Houston zigged when perhaps some expected them to zag, trading All-Star Ricky Pierce to Phoenix. They received some interesting pieces in return and while they likely won’t return to contention this season, this feels like an acceptance that they needed to rebuild.

Salt Lake Stallions
1986 Record: 39-43 (4th in Midwest, Lost to Mavericks in Round 1)
Head Coach: John MacLeod (5th Year)
Key Players: Reggie Theus (20 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 5.5 APG, 49.8% FG, 83% FT), Adrian Dantley (27.9 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 3.3 APG, 1 SPG), Brad Sellers (#12 Overall Pick)

With Adrian Dantley’s contract expiring this season, don’t be surprised to see him finally move on from the Stallions.

San Antonio Spurs
1986 Record: 32-50 (5th in Midwest, Missed Playoffs)
Head Coach: Johnny Bach (2nd Year)
Key Players: LaSalle Thompson (7.4 PPG, 10.6 RPG, 1.1 SPG, 1.8 BPG), George Gervin (17.6 PPG, 4.9 RPG)

The door is closed for the Spurs. The next few years might just be seeing if the Iceman can reach 30K points as they rebuild. He’s at 27,962.

Spirits of St. Louis
1986 Record: 46-36 (2nd in Midwest, Lost to Mavericks in Round 2)
Head Coach: Donnie Walsh (4th Year)
Key Players: Buck Williams (19.5 PPG, 10.1 RPG, 56.4% FG), Dale Ellis (23 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 1.1 SPG, 48.8% FG, 38.9% 3P), Alvin Robertson (18.3 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 6.4 APG, 2 SPG), Mark Eaton (9.1 RPG, 3.7 BPG)

The Spirits built on a playoff appearance in 1985 with a 2nd round appearance in 1986. They almost beat Dallas too. It could be a huge year for St. Louis.

Western Conference

Pacific Division

Anaheim Light
1986 Record: 35-47 (5th in Pacific, Missed Playoffs)
Head Coach: Don Chaney (3rd Year)
Key Players: William Bedford (#10 Overall Pick), Jawann Oldham (10 PPG, 9.6 RPG, 1.6 BPG), Otis Birdsong (25.9 PPG, 5 RPG, 3.9 APG, 2 SPG), Doc Rivers (17 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 7.9 APG, 1.5 SPG)

The Anaheim Light era begins! It looks similar to the end of the Clipper era at the moment though.

Golden State Warriors
1986 Record: 42-40 (4th in the Pacific, Lost to Lakers in 1st Round)
Head Coach: George Karl (4th Year)
Key Players: Darryl Dawkins (15.4 PPG, 10.6 RPG, 1.4 BPG, 51.5% FG), Danny Schayes (9.4 PPG, 9.9 RPG, 1.4 BPG), Kiki Vandeweghe (26.1 PPG, 5.3 RPG), John Stockton (14.5 PPG, 9.2 APG, 2 SPG), Andrew Toney (22.1 PPG)

Despite the talent upgrades, the Warriors fell to the Lakers for the third straight years. The talent is here and they added some defense in Dudley Bradley. Is this the year the Warriors finally break out?

Los Angeles Lakers
1986 Record: 53-29 (2nd in Pacific, Lost to Boston in NBA Finals)
Head Coach: Pat Riley (6th Year)
Key Players: Magic Johnson (18.8 PPG, 9.2 RPG, 10.4 APG, 1.8 SPG, 51.2% FG, 85.9% FT), Robert Parish (18 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 1.1 SPG, 1.3 BPG), Bernard King (34.2 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 57.4% FG), Marques Johnson (17.6 PPG, 8.1 RPG, 1.5 SPG)

This is a big year for the Lakers as it is a Bernard King and Robert Parish contract year. The Lakers are taking another shot at it all as they added Marques Johnson in free agency, which should help their offense immensely.

Phoenix Suns
1986 Record: 29-53 (6th in Pacific, Missed Playoffs)
Head Coach: Cotton Fitzsimmons (1st Year)
Key Players: Arvydas Sabonis (#3 Overall Pick), Jack Sikma (13.6 PPG, 10.3 RPG, 1.5 BPG), Clyde Drexler (24.3 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 3.5 APG, 1.4 SPG, 48.9% FG), Ricky Pierce (23.4 PPG, 5.3 RPG), Brad Davis (15.5 PPG, 7.4 APG), Craig Hodges (14.4 PPG)

A disappointing season for the Suns may have worked out great as they landed the Lithuanian giant Sabonis. The Suns decided that this was the team they planned to go to war with and made a big trade for Ricky Pierce and Jack Sikma too.

Portland Trail Blazers
1986 Record: 45-37 (3rd in Pacific, Lost to Spirits in Round 1)
Head Coach: Rick Adelman (2nd Year)
Key Players: Otis Thorpe (12.4 PPG, 7.9 RPG, 54.9% FG), Chris Mullin 16.5 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 1.6 SPG), Byron Scott (16.4 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 3.7 APG, 1.9 SPG)

The young Trail Blazers returned to the playoffs behind Chris Mullin and Byron Scott. They have a lot of options who may either develop or serve as trade bait if they want to add a star.

Sacramento Kings
1986 Record: 57-25 (1st in Pacific, Lost to Lakers in WCSF)
Head Coach: Del Harris (3rd Year)
Key Players: Hakeem Olajuwon (19 PPG, 11.5 RPG, 2 SPG, 3.1 BPG, 53.2% FG), Patrick Ewing (21 PPG, 8.7 RPG, 1.9 BPG, 50.4% FG), Danny Ainge (13.1 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 3.8 APG, 1.4 SPG)

The Hakeem-Ewing tandem was a towering success as the Kings stormed to a 57-win season and a Pacific Division title. The Lakers got them in the Semis, but the Kings seemed destined to become champions sooner or later.

Seattle Supersonics
1986 Record: 22-60 (7th in Pacific, Missed Playoffs)
Head Coach: Hubie Brown (3rd Year)
Key Players: Brad Daughtery (#6 Overall Pick), Steve Stipanovich (13.1 PPG, 8.5 RPG), Ray Williams (14 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 5.8 APG, 1.7 SPG)

Still a lot of work to be done here.

***

REGULAR SEASON FANTASY CONTEST!

Rules are the same. Pick six players. One must be a rookie. Your team may not share more than three players with any other team (so, first come, first serve, but this is so someone can’t hog say, Magic or Bird for themselves).

Example

Team A picks: Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, Michael Jordan, Kevin McHale, Dominique Wilkins and Patrick Ewing

Team B picks: Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, Ralph Sampson, David Thompson, Isiah Thomas, Patrick Ewing

Team C picks: Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, Michael Jordan, Hakeem Olajuwon, Rolando Blackman, Benoit Benjamin

Team A shares only three players with Team B (Magic, Bird, Ewing) and Team C (Magic, Bird, Jordan). Team B shares only two with Team C (Magic, Bird). So all teams are legal. Again, it’s first come first serve.

Failing to field a legal team will result in non-entry.

1 Fantasy Point is Worth the Following (Each Stat is separate)

100 Points
50 Rebounds
25 Assists
10 Steals
10 Blocks

This is a full regular-season, roto style contest. Your six players will be added up and the winner will be who has the most total points (fractional points will be part of it).

10% Bonus to the winner as this will be added to your running totals.

1985-1986 Fantasy Stats

@Dubble J : 2,216 Points (5x Champion (1x Season, 4x Playoffs): 1986 Season, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1985 Playoffs)
1981 Playoffs: 302 (Champion)
1982 Playoffs: 237 (Champion)
1983 Playoffs: 269 (Champion)
1984 Playoffs: 220
1985 Playoffs: 422 (Champion)
1986 Regular Season: 459 (Champion)
1986 Playoffs: 317

@Alansmithee: 1474 Points (2x Champion (2x Playoffs): 1984, 1986 Playoffs)
1983 Playoffs: 215
1984 Playoffs: 394 (Champion)
1985 Playoffs: 381
1986 Playoffs: 484 (Champion)

@BattleTank : 411 Points
1986 Regular Season: 411

@Grim : 447 Points (1x Champion (1x Playoffs): 1980 Playoffs)
1980 Playoffs: 55 (Champion)
1981 Playoffs: 90
1986 Playoffs: 302

@Joey Bananas : 55 Points
1981 Playoffs: 55


Stats Site



​

 

[AlanSmithee1981]

My picks: Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, Dominique Wilkins, Tom Chambers, and Brad Daugherty...

 

[The ScapeDubb]

Michael Jordan, Larry Bird, Isiah Thomas, Kevin McHale, Hakeem Olajuwon and Len Bias

 

[RDT]

Through X-Mas (86-87 Season)

Eastern Conference

Atlantic Division

Miami Heat (2)
1986-1987 Record: 18-10
Key Players: Michael Jordan (32.6 PPG, 6.4 RPG, 5.9 APG, 2.8 SPG, 57.8% FG), Sam Perkins (14.5 PPG, 9 RPG, 1.1 BPG), Xavier McDaniel (13.4 PPG, 6.1 RPG)
Big Moves: None

Michael Jordan again has the Heat looking great so far this season. Is it enough this time around to get Miami past the Semis?

New Jersey Nets (5)
1986-1987 Record: 15-9
Key Players: Sidney Moncrief (19.7 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 3.9 APG, 1.9 SPG, 49.7% FG, 82.4% FT), Calvin Natt (18.8 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 51.8% FG), Cliff Robinson (18.5 PPG, 9 RPG, 1.2 SPG, 1.3 BPG), Moses Malone (13.3 PPG, 10.3 RPG, 1.1 BPG)
Big Moves: None

A solid start for the Nets, but there are some red flags. Moses Malone is shooting under 40% from the field, and the Nets are just a middling defensive team so far this year. They’ve mostly been successful with their defense for the past few years.

Boston Celtics (6)
1986-1987 Record: 14-11
Key Players: Larry Bird (25.2 PPG, 10.2 RPG, 5.4 APG, 1.9 SPG, 46.6% FG, 98.7% FT), Purvis Short (23.5 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 1.1 SPG), Larry Nance (22.2 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 1.7 BPG, 55.2% FG)
Big Moves: None

The Celtics have not started as hot as you’d expect defending their championship. Larry Bird, while still excellent, is scoring at a career low and Larry Nance is out for another six or seven weeks with a broken arm. Boston can’t be counted out though.

Philadelphia 76ers (7)
1986-1987 Record: 15-12
Key Players: Len Bias (24.8 PPG, 8.8 RPG, 3.6 APG, 1.9 SPG, 1 BPG, 49% FG, 89.3% FT), Maurice Cheeks (16.3 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 6.9 APG, 2.3 SPG), Manute Bol (4.1 BPG)

Len Bias has completely changed the culture in Philadelphia. The Sixers looked to be headed for years of rebuilding now have a true blue-chipper. It’s early, but they may return to the playoffs. Interestingly, the have the NBA’s best defense behind the 7’7” shot blocker Manute Bol.

Baltimore Bullets (8)
1986-1987 Record: 13-11
Key Players: Sam Bowie (18.5 PPG, 12.1 RPG, 2.2 BPG), Alex English (22.7 PPG, 6.9 RPG, 1.2 SPG), Adrian Dantley (24.7 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 50.6% FG)
Big Moves: Traded two first-round picks, Eddie Johnson and Wayman Tinsdale for Adrian Dantley

With Sam Bowie looking like a star, the Bullets have once again completely went all-in behind a trio of Bowie, Alex English and Adrian Dantley. We’ll see if that can make noise in the Eastern Conference.

New York Knicks
1986-1987 Record: 9-13
Key Players: Fat Lever (16.7 PPG, 10.7 RPG, 10.3 APG, 2.2 SPG), Tony Campbell (15 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 1.5 SPG), Antoine Carr (15.1 PPG, 52.5% FG)
Big Moves: None

Statistically, Fat Lever is having an incredible season…but it hasn’t led to victories.

Eastern Conference

Central Division

Cleveland Cavaliers (1)
1986-1987 Record: 23-5
Key Players: Kevin McHale (24.8 PPG, 12.4 RPG, 1.2 SPG, 4.1 BPG, 53.9% FG, 84% FT), Rolando Blackman (19.4 PPG, 5.1 RPG, 50.5% FG, 80% FT, 38.6% 3P), Orlando Woolridge (20 PPG, 8.6 RPG, 1.3 BPG, 56.3% FG)
Big Moves: None

Cleveland’s big three has the Cavs with the best record in basketball. Kevin McHale might be the MVP frontrunner.

Detroit Pistons (3)
1986-1987 Record: 18-6
Key Players: Tom Chambers (23.8 PPG, 9 RPG, 1.1 BPG, 56.6% FG), Micheal Ray Richardson (16.6 PPG, 8.9 RPG, 11 APG, 2.3 SPG), David Thompson (15.5 PPG, 48.3% FG)
Big Moves: None

Tom Chambers has continued his elite scoring and the additions of Micheal Ray and Skywalker have Detroit once again near the top of the Central Division. Unfortunately, Michael Cooper is out for another month at least, splitting the elite defensive wing pairing of he and Dennis Johnson in half for a little bit.

Chicago Bulls (4)
1986-1987 Record: 17-8
Key Players: Dominique Wilkins (35.4 PPG, 8.4 RPG, 1.6 SPG, 55.4% FG), Terry Cummings (20.5 PPG, 9.1 RPG, 1.2 SPG), Vinnie Johnson (13.4 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 3.6 APG, 1.6 SPG), Johnny Moore (8.4 PPG, 8.4 APG, 1.8 SPG)
Big Moves: None

Dominique Wilkins and Terry Cummings are powering the Bulls to another elite year. Detroit and Cleveland stand in their way for a division crown though.

New Orleans Jazz
1986-1987 Record: 10-15
Key Players: Charles Barkley (26.9 PPG, 13.4 RPG, 3.2 APG, 1.6 SPG, 54.2% FG), Jeff Malone (17.6 PPG)
Big Moves: None

Charles Barkley has made the leap and is on the verge of superstardom, but the Jazz need to find a true defensive rim protector. No team has allowed more points per game this year so far.

Atlanta Hawks
1986-1987 Record: 11-17
Key Players: Mark Aguirre (17.7 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 48.5% FG), Karl Malone (16.2 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 56.5% FG), Bill Laimbeer (15.6 PPG, 12 RPG, 1.7 BPG)
Big Moves: None

There’s just something missing with Atlanta. Eddie Johnson is declining and they need to upgrade their guard play.

Indiana Pacers
1986-1987 Record: 6-18
Key Players: James Edwards (14.2 PPG, 7.3 RPG)
Big Moves: None

The Pacers are in the rebuilding process. David Robinson would be a nice prize to get Indiana back to contention.

Milwaukee Bucks
1986-1987 Record: 5-22
Key Players: Chuck Person (15.8 PPG, 6.2 RPG)
Big Moves: None

Chuck Person has shown some promise, but there isn’t much else in Milwaukee to be excited about. Adding David Robinson to pair with Person would be huge.

Western Conference

Midwest Division

Dallas Mavericks (1)
1986-1987 Record: 20-6
Key Players: Isiah Thomas (18.7 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 13.7 APG, 2.7 SPG), James Worthy (23.5 PPG, 8.4 RPG, 1.6 SPG, 51.6% FG), Ralph Sampson (24 PPG, 9.9 RPG, 2.2 BPG, 49.3% FG)
Big Moves: None

Dallas is up top the West so far this season. With the Lakers looking as vulnerable as ever, this could be the year the Mavericks take the next step and make the NBA Finals.

San Antonio Spurs (7)
1986-1987 Record: 11-13
Key Players: Ron Anderson (16.4 PPG, 6.5 RPG, 54.1% FG), George Gervin (15.7 PPG, 5 RPG), LaSalle Thompson (9.3 PPG, 9.9 RPG, 1.1 SPG, 2.2 BPG
Big Moves: None

The Spurs once again are eyeing a playoff berth. The addition of LaSalle Thompson has given the Spurs a defensive boost that’s carried them so far.

Denver Nuggets (8)
1986-1987 Record: 12-16
Key Players: Ron Harper (14.9 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 4 APG, 1.8 SPG, 47.4% FG), Michael Wiley (14.1 PPG, 6.9 RPG, 49.2% FG), Joe Barry Carroll (13.1 PPG, 7.1 RPG)

The Nuggets have six players scoring in double digits, with rookie Ron Harper leading the way. This is the best they’ve looked in a while.

Spirits of St. Louis
1986-1987 Record: 11-15
Key Players: Buck Williams (20.9 PPG, 9.7 RPG, 54.7% FG), Otis Birdsong (20.5 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 1.3 SPG), Dale Ellis (18.8 PPG, 6.8 RPG, 1.7 SPG), Alvin Robertson (17 PPG, 7.2 RPG, 6.2 APG, 2 SPG), Mark Eaton (7.6 RPG, 3.4 BPG)
Big Moves: Traded Joe Dumars, Mario Elie and a future 1st round pick for Otis Birdsong

St. Louis has started off disappointing, but they’ve gambled by bringing in Otis Birdsong. The Spirits seemed like they were on the cusp challenging the Mavericks for the Midwest Division, but now they need to figure out what’s wrong. Mark Eaton is out a month too, which will only hurt the defense.

Houston Rockets
1986-1987 Record: 8-19
Key Players: Kelly Tripucka (26.6 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 3.8 APG, 1.4 SPG), Darrell Griffith (19.6 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 3.3 APG, 1.3 SPG), Mike Woodson (15 PPG, 1.3 SPG), Kevin Willis (8.8 PPG, 9.6 RPG), Charles Oakley (7.6 PPG, 9.7 RPG)
Big Moves: None

The Rockets look like they are on the rebuilding path, although they have a lot of interesting pieces that contenders could likely use.

Salt Lake Stallions
1986-1987 Record: 6-17
Key Players: Eddie Johnson (19.1 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 48.8% FG), Reggie Theus (15.6 PPG, 4.6 APG, 51% FG)
Big Moves: Traded away Adrian Dantley for Eddie Johnson, Wayman Tinsdale and two first round picks.

With Dantley gone, it feels like an end of an era in Salt Lake City. Eddie Johnson is in the prime of his career though, it’ll be interesting if the Stallions try to build around him or trade him.

Western Conference

Pacific Division

Sacramento Kings (2)
1986-1987 Record: 17-7
Key Players: Hakeem Olajuwon (29.8 PPG, 13.4 RPG, 1.9 SPG, 3.9 BPG, 54.8% FG), Patrick Ewing (5 Games, 22.6 PPG, 7.4 RPG, 2.2 BPG, 49.5% FG), Danny Ainge (17.1 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 3.8 APG, 1.7 SPG, 51.6% FG)
Big Moves: None

An early Patrick Ewing injury didn’t stop the Kings. Hakeem Olajuwon may be the MVP so far, and Danny Ainge has played great so far.

Golden State Warriors (3)
1986-1987 Record: 17-10
Key Players: Kiki Vandeweghe (27.7 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 38% 3P), Andrew Toney (21.9 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 3.9 APG, 1.2 SPG), John Stockton (16.5 PPG, 12.1 APG, 2.7 SPG, 47.6% FG, 40.2% 3P), Dudley Bradley (13.1 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 1.2 SPG), Darryl Dawkins (12.5 PPG, 9.4 RPG, 1.6 BPG, 52.2% FG)
Big Moves: None

This looks like the best Warrior team we’ve seen in years. The team no longer runs through Darryl Dawkins as John Stockton usually finds Kiki Vandeweghe or Andrew Toney as the top scoring options. Even though they added Dudley Bradley, the defense isn’t that good, but they have the second-best offense in the league. We’ll see how far that takes them.

Los Angeles Lakers (4)
1986-1987 Record: 17-11
Key Players: Magic Johnson (21.5 PPG, 8.1 RPG, 8.7 APG, 1.7 SPG, 51.1% FG, 90.1% FT), Marques Johnson (20.9 PPG, 8.5 RPG), Robert Parish (14.5 PPG, 8.6 RPG, 1.7 BPG), Bernard King (8 Games, 19.8 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 51.1% FG)
Big Moves: None

The Lakers looked good without Bernard King as Marques Johnson took up a lot of the scoring load. But now, Magic Johnson is out for two months. Can the Lakers survive that?

Portland Trail Blazers (5)
1986-1987 Record: 15-10
Key Players: Chris Mullin (19.5 PPG, 1.8 SPG, 47.1% FG, 87.9% FT, 38.3% 3P), Byron Scott (14.2 PPG, 1.7 SPG), Otis Thorpe (13 PPG, 7 RPG, 51.7% FG)
Big Moves: None

Chris Mullin looks like the real deal and has the Trail Blazers back in the playoff hunt. Portland will either need a few of their pieces to make a jump, or make a big trade to become a contender.

Phoenix Suns (6)
1986-1987 Record: 13-12
Key Players: Ricky Pierce (21.8 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 46.3% FG), Clyde Drexler (21.1 PPG, 6.6 RPG, 1.8 SPG, 53.3% FG), Arvydas Sabonis (18.2 PPG, 11 RPG), Jack Sikma (13.2 PPG, 10.6 RPG)
Big Moves: None

Oddly, it feels like the Suns should be better. Rookie Arvydas Sabonis has been great and Ricky Pierce and Clyde Drexler are both All-Star level wings. The Suns have been incredible at home at 9-1, but only 4-11 on the road.

Seattle Supersonics
1986-1987 Record: 7-15
Key Players: Brad Daugherty (16.5 PPG, 8.3 RPG)
Big Moves: None

The Sonics actually look like a coherent basketball team these days. So there’s that.

Anaheim Light
1986-1987 Record: 3-23
Key Players: Doc Rivers (13.8 PPG, 5.1 APG, 1.1 SPG), Jawann Oldham (8.5 PPG, 9.9 RPG, 1.4 BPG)
Big Moves: Traded away Otis Birdsong for Joe Dumars, Mario Elie and a 1st round pick

Unfortunately, the Clippers move to Anaheim has not led to exciting basketball as the Clippers are about to enter a deep rebuild. On the positive side, they are the favorites for David Robinson.

***

NOTABLE GAMES

11/4 – Heat 122, NETS 105 – Michael Jordan makes an opening day statement, dropping a 41-11 with 4 steals on Atlantic Division rival New Jersey

11/4 – KINGS 122, Spirits 84 – The Kings lose Patrick Ewing (19 points in 20 minutes), but Hakeem drops a 32-12 with 3 steals and 4 blocks to put St. Louis down anyway

11/4 – NUGGETS 127, Celtics 119 – Denver upsets defending NBA Champion Boston behind strong rookie performances from Chris Washburn (22 points) and Ron Harper (19 points)

11/5 – CAVALIERS 99, Pacers 79 – Kevin McHale destroys the Pacers with 33 points, 17 rebounds and 9 blocks

11/5 – PISTONS 127, Suns 100 – Tom Chambers welcomes Arvydas Sabonis to the NBA with 45 points and 13 boards

11/7 – SUNS 125, Kings 118 – Hakeem was amazing with 41 points and 18 rebounds, but the Suns got 66 combined points from Clyde Drexler and Ricky Pierce, while rookie Sabonis had a 22-10-8 with 3 steals

11/7 – 76ERS 85, Nets 69 – The Sixers shut down the Nets, and the #1 pick Len Bias drops a 27-9-6

11/8 – WARRIOS 118, Knicks 115 (OT) – John Stockton and Fat Lever put on a show in Golden State’s OT win. Stockton has 21 points, 17 assists and 6 steals against Lever’s 24 points, 17 rebounds and 14 assists

11/11 – KINGS 111, Hawks 86 – Hakeem drops 35 points, 13 rebounds, 5 steals and 4 blocks, overcoming Bill Laimbeer’s 22 rebounds

11/12 – HEAT 114, Nets 107 – Michael Jordan destroys the Nets again, this time with 52 points

11/18 – Kings 93, LIGHT 91 – Hakeem continues to put up insane lines, this time a 40-point, 22-rebound, 3-steal, 3-block demolishing of the Light

11/21 – MAVERICKS 122, Kings 117 – Isiah Thomas dishes out a NBA record 29 assists in a battle between the best two teams in the West

11/21 – Heat 117, LAKERS 104 – Michael Jordan makes a statement that it’s his league now as he drops 48 on the Lakers

11/22 – Pistons 115, MAVERICKS 114 (OT) – The Pistons win a thriller in OT in a battle of two of the top teams in the NBA. Micheal Ray put up a 24-14-12 with 5 steals, enough to offset Isiah’s 23 assists

11/28 – HEAT 133, Jazz 129 – MJ went nuts again, dropping 55 points

12/9 – BULLETS 132, Heat 124 – Sam Bowie puts up perhaps the best game of his career with a 34-18-5, as Alex English and Adrian Dantley added 57 combine points

12/16 – Pistons 109, KNICKS 97 – Micheal Ray outplays Fat Lever with a 25-17-10 against a 10-8-16-5

12/23 – Bulls 133, ROCKETS 120 – Dominique Wilkins drops 70, the second time in two seasons the Rockets allowed a player to hit that mark

Top 10 PPG
1. Dominique Wilkins, CHI, 35.4
2. Tom Chambers, DET, 32.8
3. Michael Jordan, MIA, 32.6
4. Hakeem Olajuwon, SAC, 29.8
5. Kiki Vandeweghe, DAL, 27.7
6. Charles Barkley, NOJ, 26.9
7. Kelly Tripucka, HOU, 26.6
8. Larry Bird, BOS, 25.2
9. Len Bias, PHI, 24.8
10. Kevin McHale, CLE, 24.8

Top 10 RPG
1. Hakeem Olajuwon, SAC, 13.4
2. Charles Barkley, NOJ, 13.4
3. Kevin McHale, CLE, 12.4
4. Sam Bowie, BAL, 12.1
5. Bill Laimbeer, ATL, 12.0
6. Danny Schayes, GSW, 11.0
7. Arvydas Sabonis, PHX, 11.0
8. Fat Lever, NYK, 10.7
9. Jack Sikma, PHX, 10.6
10. Moses Malone, 10.3

Top 10 APG
1. Isiah Thomas, DAL, 13.7
2. John Stockton, GSW, 12.1
3. Micheal Ray Richardson, DET, 11.0
4. Fat Lever, NYK, 10.3
5. Magic Johnson, LAL, 8.7
6. Johnny Moore, CHI, 8.4
7. Maurice Cheeks, PHI, 6.9
8. Alvin Robertson, STL, 6.2
9. Brad Davis, SAS, 6.0
10. Michael Jordan, MIA, 5.9

Top 5 SPG
1. Michael Jordan, MIA, 2.8
2. Isiah Thomas, DAL, 2.7
3. John Stockton, GSW, 2.7
4. Lester Conner, LAL, 2.5
5. Maurice Cheeks, PHI, 2.3

Top 5 BPG
1. Manute Bol, PHI, 4.1
2. Kevin McHale, CLE, 4.1
3. Hakeem Olajuwon, SAC, 3.9
4. Alton Lister, CHI, 3.8
5. Mark Eaton, STL, 3.4

Player of the Week (Listed By Week Ending)
11/9 – Magic Johnson, Lakers, Dominique Wilkins, Bulls
11/16 – Magic Johnson, Lakers, Len Bias, 76ers
11/23 – Hakeem Olajuwon, Kings, Michael Jordan, Heat
11/30 – Arvydas Sabonis, Suns, Michael Jordan, Heat
12/7 – Adrian Dantley, Stallions, Dominique Wilkins, Bulls
12/14 – Isiah Thomas, Mavericks, Michael Jordan, Heat
12/21 – Hakeem Olajuwon, Kings, Tom Chambers, Pistons

Player of the Month
November: Magic Johnson, Lakers, Michael Jordan, Heat

Rookie of the Month
November: Arvydas Sabonis, Suns, Len Bias, 76ers

Here is the current list of which draft picks are owned by whom.

Here is a list of the top prospects for the next three drafts.

Fantasy Standings

@Dubble J – 157.8

Michael Jordan – 29.29
28 Games, 913 points, 180 rebounds, 164 assists, 78 steals, 22 blocks

Larry Bird – 22.82
25 Games, 630 points, 254 rebounds, 136 assists, 47 steals, 13 blocks

Isiah Thomas – 23.31
21 Games, 393 points, 95 rebounds, 287 assists, 56 steals, 4 blocks

Kevin McHale – 30.97
28 Games, 693 points, 348 rebounds, 57 assists, 34 steals, 114 blocks

Hakeem Olajuwon – 28.33
23 Games, 685 points, 309 rebounds, 50 assists, 44 steals, 89 blocks

Len Bias – 23.08
27 Games, 670 points, 237 rebounds, 96 assists, 52 steals, 26 blocks

@AlanSmithee1981 – 130.45

Michael Jordan – 29.29
28 Games, 913 points, 180 rebounds, 164 assists, 78 steals, 22 blocks

Magic Johnson – 23.96
26 Games, 558 points, 210 rebounds, 227 assists, 43 steals, 8 blocks

Larry Bird – 22.82
25 Games, 630 points, 254 rebounds, 136 assists, 47 steals, 13 blocks

Dominique Wilkins – 21.75
25 Games, 885 points, 211 rebounds, 62 assists, 40 steals, 22 blocks

Tom Chambers – 19.71
24 Games, 787 points, 216 rebounds, 68 assists, 21 steals, 27 blocks

Brad Daugherty – 12.92
22 Games, 362 points, 183 rebounds, 61 assists, 9 steals, 23 blocks

Stats Site​

 

[RDT]

Through All-Star Weekend (86-87 Season)

Eastern Conference

Atlantic Division

Miami Heat (2)
1986-1987 Record: 35-12 (18-10, 17-2)
Key Players: Michael Jordan (32.3 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 6.2 APG, 2.6 SPG, 55.1% FG), Sam Perkins (14.1 PPG, 8.7 RPG, 1.2 BPG), Xavier McDaniel (12.6 PPG, 6.5 RPG)
Big Moves: None

Miami was absolutely incredible after the holiday. The Heat only lost twice, although both were 20 point drubbings at the hands of Eastern Conference rivals (Detroit and Cleveland). Nonetheless the Heat ride a nine game winning streak coming into the All-Star Game, where of course Michael Jordan will be starting.

New Jersey Nets (5)
1986-1987 Record: 25-21 (15-9, 10-12)
Key Players: Sidney Moncrief (19.7 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 4.0 APG, 2.0 SPG), Calvin Natt (17.9 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 50.8% FG), Cliff Robinson (17.9 PPG, 9.3 RPG, 1.3 SPG, 1.5 BPG), Moses Malone (13.9 PPG, 11.2 RPG, 1.3 BPG)
Big Moves: None

The Nets stumbled after Christmas. The offense barely ranks in the top half of the league and the defense, once elite, ranks tenth. They’ll need to step up somewhere or it will be very unlikely the Nets will make the NBA Finals.

Baltimore Bullets (6)
1986-1987 Record: 22-23 (13-11, 9-12)
Key Players: Sam Bowie (16.5 PPG, 11.5 RPG, 2.2 BPG), Alex English (21.9 PPG, 7.4 RPG), Adrian Dantley (26.2 PPG, 6.6 RPG, 1.2 SPG, 52.0% FG, 82.3% FT)
Big Moves: None

Despite falling below .500, the Bullets moved up to the 6th seed. Despite the firepower on offense and the shot blocking from Sam Bowie, the Bullets can’t seem get on the positive side of their PPG to oPPG ratio.

Boston Celtics (8)
1986-1987 Record: 20-25 (14-11, 6-14)
Key Players: Larry Bird (28 G, 25.3 PPG, 9.9 RPG, 5.4 APG, 1.8 SPG, 98.3% FT), Purvis Short (25.6 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 1.2 SPG), Larry Nance (20 G, 22.2 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 1.7 BPG, 55.2% FG), Michael Wiley (14 PPG, 6.4 RPG, 1.1 SPG, 48.9% FG)
Big Moves: Traded a 1989 1st Round Pick to Denver for Michael Wiley

A broken arm for Larry Bird and a broken arm for Larry Nance has completely derailed the Celtics’ title defense. Bird will still miss three weeks, but Nance will be back at any time. Adding Michael Wiley didn’t stop the losses from piling up, but he will likely make a good bench piece when Bird returns.

Philadelphia 76ers
1986-1987 Record: 17-29 (15-12, 2-15)
Key Players: Len Bias (24.3 PPG, 8.8 RPG, 3.7 APG, 2.1 SPG, 48.4% FG, 86.7% FT), Maurice Cheeks (15.6 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 7.1 APG, 2.2 SPG), Manute Bol (4.2 BPG)

A top 5 defense has been offset by the 23rd ranked offense in the league. The Sixers have a blue chipper with Len Bias, but they’ll need another offensive weapon to get back to the glory days of the early 80s.

New York Knicks
1986-1987 Record: 16-29 (9-13, 7-16)
Key Players: Fat Lever (13.2 PPG, 10.0 RPG, 11.1 APG, 2.2 SPG), Tony Campbell (16.4 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 1.4 SPG), Antoine Carr (14.2 PPG, 50.8% FG)
Big Moves: None

Fat Lever continues to put up triple-doubles, but there’s not a whole lot else to be excited about in New York.

Eastern Conference

Central Division

Detroit Pistons (1)
1986-1987 Record: 36-9 (18-6, 18-3)
Key Players: Tom Chambers (32.0 PPG, 9.0 RPG, 56.3% FG), Micheal Ray Richardson (15.9 PPG, 9.0 RPG, 10.9 APG, 2.0 SPG), David Thompson (15.6 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 48.3% FG), Dennis Johnson (12.6 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 5.4 APG, 2.1 SPG), Michael Cooper (21 G, 12 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 1.5 SPG)
Big Moves: None

With Michael Cooper back the Pistons are now at full strength. With offensive and defensive weapons everywhere the Pistons are undoubtedly one of the best teams in the league, but Cleveland will likely not let them coast to an easy Central Division title.

Cleveland Cavaliers (3)
1986-1987 Record: 37-10 (23-5, 14-5)
Key Players: Kevin McHale (25.0 PPG, 12.6 RPG, 1.3 SPG, 3.9 BPG, 53.9% FG), Rolando Blackman (20.4 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 3.4 APG, 51.9% FG), Orlando Woolridge (19.9 PPG, 8.0 RPG, 1.2 BPG, 55.0% FG)
Big Moves: None

The Cavs slowed down a little bit, which was enough for the Pistons to catch up and pass them for the Central lead. Still, Kevin McHale has been incredible this season, as has Rolando Blackman and Orlando Woolridge. They rank 2nd in both offense AND defense so far this season.

Chicago Bulls (4)
1986-1987 Record: 31-14 (17-8, 14-6)
Key Players: Dominique Wilkins (35.8 PPG, 8.4 RPG, 1.8 SPG, 54.2% FG), Terry Cummings (20.8 PPG, 9.4 RPG, 1.3 SPG), Vinnie Johnson (13.2 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 3.8 APG, 1.5 SPG), Johnny Moore (8.7 PPG, 8.5 APG, 1.9 SPG), Alton Lister (7.0 PPG, 10.0 RPG, 3.6 BPG)
Big Moves: None

Chicago is has been good, very good, but haven’t been able to keep pace with Detroit and Cleveland. ‘Nique has been absolutely unstoppable for the third straight season and perhaps he can carry Chicago back to the NBA Finals regardless.

New Orleans Jazz (7)
1986-1987 Record: 21-25 (10-15, 11-10)
Key Players: Charles Barkley (24.5 PPG, 13.5 RPG, 3.2 APG, 1.5 SPG, 54.3% FG), Jeff Malone (16.3 PPG), Detlef Schrempf (12.5 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 3.9 APG)
Big Moves: None

This is the deepest in a season that the Jazz have been inside the playoff eight. With the way Charles Barkley is playing, it will be difficult. Barkley was awarded his first All-Star appearance due to his spectacular play this season.

Atlanta Hawks
1986-1987 Record: 20-26 (11-17, 9-9)
Key Players: Mark Aguirre (17.6 PPG, 5.5 RPG), Karl Malone (17.5 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 1.3 SPG, 59.7% FG), Bill Laimbeer (15.3 PPG, 12 RPG, 1.6 BPG)
Big Moves: None

Not a bad stretch for the Hawks, but they’re still missing something. Karl Malone hitting 60% of his shots is a good sign for his future.

Indiana Pacers
1986-1987 Record: 11-35 (6-18, 5-17)
Key Players: James Edwards (14.7 PPG, 7.4 RPG)
Big Moves: None

The rebuild continues.

Milwaukee Bucks
1986-1987 Record: 9-37 (5-22, 4-15)
Key Players: Chuck Person (16 PPG, 6.0 RPG)
Big Moves: None

It’s all about seeing how Chuck Person develops at the moment.

Western Conference

Midwest Division

Dallas Mavericks (2)
1986-1987 Record: 34-14 (20-6, 14-8)
Key Players: Isiah Thomas (19 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 12.6 APG, 2.9 SPG), James Worthy (24.5 PPG, 8.7 RPG, 1.3 SPG, 51.6% FG), Ralph Sampson (23.8 PPG, 10 RPG, 2.2 BPG, 50.7% FG)
Big Moves: None

As the Mavericks continue to roll, their health will be the key to breaking through and making their first NBA Finals.

San Antonio Spurs (6)
1986-1987 Record: 27-19 (11-13, 16-6)
Key Players: George Gervin (14.9 PPG, 4.7 RPG), A.C. Green (13.7 PPG, 7.7 RPG, 49.3% FG), Ron Anderson (13.4 PPG, 5.9 RPG), Anthony Bowie (13 PPG, 5 RPG), LaSalle Thompson (9.6 PPG, 10 RPG, 2.4 BPG)
Big Moves: None

Easily the biggest surprise in the NBA so far. The Spurs has played strong defensively all season, giving the Iceman one more shot at glory.

Spirits of St. Louis (8)
1986-1987 Record: 22-24 (11-15, 11-9)
Key Players: Buck Williams (20.7 PPG, 10.6 RPG, 54.4% FG), Otis Birdsong (20.0 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 3.4 APG, 1.4 SPG), Dale Ellis (19.3 PPG, 6.5 RPG, 1.6 SPG), Alvin Robertson (17.8 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 6.7 APG, 2 SPG), Mark Eaton (7.5 RPG, 3.5 BPG)
Big Moves: None

Unlike last season, the Spirits haven’t exploded towards the top of the standings after a tough start, but they’re still in the mix. We’ll see how the defense does with Mark Eaton back.

Houston Rockets
1986-1987 Record: 18-29 (8-19, 10-10)
Key Players: Kelly Tripucka (24.4 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 4.1 APG, 1.4 SPG, 47.7% FG), Darrell Griffith (19.4 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 3.1 APG, 1.4 SPG), Mike Woodson (15.1 PPG, 1.3 SPG), Kevin Willis (10.4 PPG, 9.7 RPG), Charles Oakley (7.8 PPG, 9.8 RPG)
Big Moves: None

Houston once again finds themselves in the middle. They have the talent to make a playoff run, but with little chance to make a Finals run is that the right way to go?

Salt Lake Stallions
1986-1987 Record: 14-30 (6-17, 8-13)
Key Players: Eddie Johnson (20.7 PPG, 6.8 RPG, 47.6% FG, 82.2% FT, 38.2% 3P), Reggie Theus (17.5 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 4.6 APG, 1.7 SPG, 49.8% FG)
Big Moves: None

Eddie Johnson has played well for the Stallions, we’ll see if he and Reggie Theus can once again bring the Stallions back to playoff contention next season.

Denver Nuggets
1986-1987 Record: 14-33 (12-16, 2-17)
Key Players: Ron Harper (14.7 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 4.1 APG, 1.7 SPG), Joe Barry Carroll (13.6 PPG, 7.7 RPG)
Big Moves: Traded away Michael Wiley for a 1989 1st Round Pick from Boston
The Nuggets completely fell apart after Christmas, but there’s a shot at David Robinson so we’re just back to the normal plan in Denver.

Western Conference

Pacific Division

Sacramento Kings (1)
1986-1987 Record: 34-12 (17-7, 17-5)
Key Players: Hakeem Olajuwon (27.4 PPG, 12.4 RPG, 1.7 SPG, 4.3 BPG, 54.6% FG), Patrick Ewing (27 G, 25.7 PPG, 8.9 RPG, 1.9 BOG, 52.5% FG), Danny Ainge (29 G, 15.8 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 3.9 APG, 1.6 SPG, 49.6% FG)
Big Moves: None

Despite injuries that have kept Patrick Ewing and Danny Ainge out at times, Hakeem Olajuwon has been incredible (averaging 6 stocks a game!) and the Kings have the #1 seed at the moment.

Golden State Warriors (3)
1986-1987 Record: 33-15 (17-10, 16-5)
Key Players: Kiki Vandeweghe (26.6 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 3.2 APG, 37.7% 3P), Andrew Toney (22.7 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 3.9 APG, 1.1 SPG, 49% FG), John Stockton (17.2 PPG, 11.6 APG, 3.0 SPG, 46.8% FG, 38.6% 3P), Darryl Dawkins (13 PPG, 9.7 RPG, 1.6 BPG, 52.1% FG), Danny Schayes (9.6 PPG, 10.5 RPG, 1.4 BPG)
Big Moves: None

The Warriors continued their excellent play and were awarded with three All-Stars: Kiki, Stockton and Toney. Those three have powered the best offense in basketball.

Portland Trail Blazers (4)
1986-1987 Record: 28-17 (15-10, 13-7)
Key Players: Chris Mullin (19.8 PPG, 1.6 SPG, 90.7% FT, 35.7% 3P), Byron Scott (14.6 PPG, 1.6 SPG), Otis Thorpe (13.4 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 53.4% FG), Darrell Walker (13.6 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 2.4 SPG, 47.5% FG)
Big Moves: None

Chris Mullin has the Trail Blazers playing great. They’re on track to have home court advantage for a playoff series.

Phoenix Suns (5)
1986-1987 Record: 28-19 (13-12, 15-7)
Key Players: Ricky Pierce (21.4 PPG, 4.9 RPG), Clyde Drexler (20.4 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 4.6 APG, 1.9 SPG, 49.8% FG), Arvydas Sabonis (19.6 PPG, 10.4 RPG, 47.1% FG, 88% FT, 35.9% 3P), Jack Sikma (13.5 PPG, 10.8 RPG)
Big Moves: None

A really good stretch for the Suns has them comfortably in the playoffs at the moment. Arvydas Sabonis is likely winning the Rookie of the Year race as Clyde Drexler and Ricky Pierce dominate the wings.

Los Angeles Lakers (7)
1986-1987 Record: 27-22 (17-11, 10-11)
Key Players: Magic Johnson (26 G, 21.5 PPG, 8.1 RPG, 8.7 APG, 1.7 SPG, 51.1% FG, 90.1% FT), Marques Johnson (19.6 PPG, 7.7 RPG, 3.1 APG, 1.1 SPG), Robert Parish (13.3 PPG, 8.6 RPG, 1.7 BPG), Bernard King (29 G, 29.5 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 3.3 APG, 1.4 SPG, 53.9% FG), Doc Rivers (15 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 5.7 APG, 1.4 SPG)
Big Moves: Traded a 1987 2nd Round Pick and a 1989 1st Round Pick to the Light for Doc Rivers

The Lakers traded with their cross-city “rival” to obtain Doc Rivers. While he’s no Magic, Doc’s play helped keep the Lakers afloat. Magic should be back in about two weeks.

Seattle Supersonics
1986-1987 Record: 12-31 (7-15, 5-16)
Key Players: Brad Daugherty (17.2 PPG, 8.4 RPG)
Big Moves: None

The Sonics have dreams of creating their own Hakeem-Ewing combo with Daughtery and David Robinson.

Anaheim Light
1986-1987 Record: 8-39 (3-23, 5-16)
Key Players: Jawann Oldham (9.4 PPG, 9.1 RPG, 1.4 BPG)
Big Moves: Traded away Doc Rivers for a 1987 2nd Round Pick and a 1989 1st Round Pick from the Lakers
Random stat about the Light, they are 0-21 on the road this season.

***

NOTABLE GAMES

11/4 – Heat 122, NETS 105 – Michael Jordan makes an opening day statement, dropping a 41-11 with 4 steals on Atlantic Division rival New Jersey

11/4 – KINGS 122, Spirits 84 – The Kings lose Patrick Ewing (19 points in 20 minutes), but Hakeem drops a 32-12 with 3 steals and 4 blocks to put St. Louis down anyway

11/4 – NUGGETS 127, Celtics 119 – Denver upsets defending NBA Champion Boston behind strong rookie performances from Chris Washburn (22 points) and Ron Harper (19 points)

11/5 – CAVALIERS 99, Pacers 79 – Kevin McHale destroys the Pacers with 33 points, 17 rebounds and 9 blocks

11/5 – PISTONS 127, Suns 100 – Tom Chambers welcomes Arvydas Sabonis to the NBA with 45 points and 13 boards

11/7 – SUNS 125, Kings 118 – Hakeem was amazing with 41 points and 18 rebounds, but the Suns got 66 combined points from Clyde Drexler and Ricky Pierce, while rookie Sabonis had a 22-10-8 with 3 steals

11/7 – 76ERS 85, Nets 69 – The Sixers shut down the Nets, and the #1 pick Len Bias drops a 27-9-6

11/8 – WARRIOS 118, Knicks 115 (OT) – John Stockton and Fat Lever put on a show in Golden State’s OT win. Stockton has 21 points, 17 assists and 6 steals against Lever’s 24 points, 17 rebounds and 14 assists

11/11 – KINGS 111, Hawks 86 – Hakeem drops 35 points, 13 rebounds, 5 steals and 4 blocks, overcoming Bill Laimbeer’s 22 rebounds

11/12 – HEAT 114, Nets 107 – Michael Jordan destroys the Nets again, this time with 52 points

11/18 – Kings 93, LIGHT 91 – Hakeem continues to put up insane lines, this time a 40-point, 22-rebound, 3-steal, 3-block demolishing of the Light

11/21 – MAVERICKS 122, Kings 117 – Isiah Thomas dishes out a NBA record 29 assists in a battle between the best two teams in the West

11/21 – Heat 117, LAKERS 104 – Michael Jordan makes a statement that it’s his league now as he drops 48 on the Lakers

11/22 – Pistons 115, MAVERICKS 114 (OT) – The Pistons win a thriller in OT in a battle of two of the top teams in the NBA. Micheal Ray put up a 24-14-12 with 5 steals, enough to offset Isiah’s 23 assists

11/28 – HEAT 133, Jazz 129 – MJ went nuts again, dropping 55 points

12/9 – BULLETS 132, Heat 124 – Sam Bowie puts up perhaps the best game of his career with a 34-18-5, as Alex English and Adrian Dantley added 57 combine points

12/16 – Pistons 109, KNICKS 97 – Micheal Ray outplays Fat Lever with a 25-17-10 against a 10-8-16-5

12/23 – Bulls 133, ROCKETS 120 – Dominique Wilkins drops 70, the second time in two seasons the Rockets allowed a player to hit that mark

12/28 - Kings 116, CAVALIERS 109 – In a battle of the two best centers in the league, Hakeem gets the better of McHale with a 33-17 with 3 steals and 4 blocks against a 36-14

12/29 – KINGS 115, Mavericks 103 – Hakeem again outplays one of the best centers in the league with a 29-12 with 4 steals and 6 blocks against Ralph Sampson’s 34-15

12/29 – CAVALIERS 114, Celtics 97 – Kevin McHale puts together an insane 47-point, 18-rebound, 7-block gem to take down the defending NBA Champs

1/7 – PISTONS 133, Warriors 127 (OT) – In a classic OT battle, Tom Chambers drops 53 to beat the Warriors

1/11 – BULLS 118, Bucks 97 – ‘Nique drops 59, destroying the Bucks

1/17 – Pistons 126, LAKERS 115 – Tom Chambers once again has a monster game, dropping 54 on the Lakers

1/28 – KINGS 104, Nuggets 97 – Hakeem goes wild on the Nuggets with 28 points, 13 rebounds and 11 blocked shots

1/30 – JAZZ 124, Spirits 100 – Charles Barkley continues his rampage on the league with 44 points and 24 rebounds, completely dominating Buck Williams

1/31 – Bulls 108, CAVALIERS 104 – Chicago defeats division rival Cleveland thanks to ‘Nique’s 50

***

Top 10 PPG
1. Dominique Wilkins, CHI, 35.8
2. Michael Jordan, MIA, 32.3
3. Tom Chambers, DET, 32.0
4. Hakeem Olajuwon, SAC, 27.4
5. Kiki Vandeweghe, GSW, 26.6
6. Adrian Dantley, BAL, 26.2
7. Purvis Short, BOS, 25.6
8. Larry Bird, BOS, 25.3
9. Kevin McHale, CLE, 25.0
10. Charles Barkley, NOJ, 24.5

Top 10 RPG
1. Charles Barkley, NOJ, 13.5
2. Kevin McHale, CLE, 12.6
3. Hakeem Olajuwon, SAC, 12.4
4. Bill Laimbeer, ATL, 12.0
5. Sam Bowie, BAL, 11.5
6. Moses Malone, NJN, 11.2
7. Jack Sikma, PHX, 10.8
8. Buck Williams, STL, 10.6
9. Danny Schayes, GSW, 10.5
10. Arvydas Sabonis, PHX, 10.4

Top 10 APG
1. Isiah Thomas, DAL, 12.6
2. John Stockton, GSW, 11.6
3. Fat Lever, NYK, 11.1
4. Micheal Ray Richardson, DET, 10.9
5. Johnny Moore, CHI, 8.5
6. Maurice Cheeks, PHI, 7.1
7. Alvin Robertson, STL, 6.7
8. Michael Jordan, MIA, 6.2
9. Brad Davis, SAS, 5.9
10. Doc Rivers, ANA/LAL, 5.7

Top 5 SPG
1. John Stockton, GSW, 3.0
2. Isiah Thomas, DAL, 2.9
3. Michael Jordan, MIA, 2.6
4. Lester Conner, LAL, 2.5
5. Darrell Walker, POR, 2.4

Top 5 BPG
1. Hakeem Olajuwon, SAC, 4.3
2. Manute Bol, PHI, 4.2
3. Kevin McHale, CLE, 3.9
4. Alton Lister, CHI, 3.6
5. Mark Eaton, STL, 3.5

Player of the Week (Listed By Week Ending)
11/9 – Magic Johnson, Lakers, Dominique Wilkins, Bulls
11/16 – Magic Johnson, Lakers, Len Bias, 76ers
11/23 – Hakeem Olajuwon, Kings, Michael Jordan, Heat
11/30 – Arvydas Sabonis, Suns, Michael Jordan, Heat
12/7 – Adrian Dantley, Stallions, Dominique Wilkins, Bulls
12/14 – Isiah Thomas, Mavericks, Michael Jordan, Heat
12/21 – Hakeem Olajuwon, Kings, Tom Chambers, Pistons
12/28 – Bernard King, Lakers, Dominique Wilkins, Bulls
1/4 – Bernard King, Lakers, Charles Barkley, Jazz
1/11 – Bernard King, Lakers, Michael Jordan, Heat
1/18 – Bernard King, Lakers, Tom Chambers, Pistons
1/25 – Hakeem Olajuwon, Kings, Len Bias, 76ers
2/1 – Eddie Johnson, Stallions, Adrian Dantley, Bullets
2/8 – Hakeem Olajuwon, Kings, Michael Jordan, Heat

Player of the Month
November: Magic Johnson, Lakers, Michael Jordan, Heat
December: Hakeem Olajuwon, Kings, Michael Jordan, Heat
January: Bernard King, Lakers, Tom Chambers, Pistons

Rookie of the Month
November: Arvydas Sabonis, Suns, Len Bias, 76ers
December: Arvydas Sabonis, Suns, Len Bias, 76ers
January: Arvydas Sabonis, Suns, Len Bias, 76ers

Here is the current list of which draft picks are owned by whom.

Here is a list of the top prospects for the next three drafts.

***

Fantasy Standings

@Dubble J – 268.64

Michael Jordan – 49.53
47 Games, 1517 points, 327 rebounds, 293 assists, 122 steals, 39 blocks

Larry Bird – 25.07
28 Games, 707 points, 276 rebounds, 152 assists, 51 steals, 13 blocks

Isiah Thomas – 47.52
43 Games, 816 points, 209 rebounds, 542 assists, 126 steals, 9 blocks

Kevin McHale – 51.67
47 Games, 1175 points, 593 rebounds, 84 assists, 62 steals, 185 blocks

Hakeem Olajuwon – 54.35
45 Games, 1235 points, 559 rebounds, 88 assists, 78 steals, 195 blocks

Len Bias – 40.50
46 Games, 1120 points, 406 rebounds, 172 assists, 95 steals, 48 blocks

@AlanSmithee1981 – 198.49

Michael Jordan – 49.53
47 Games, 1517 points, 327 rebounds, 293 assists, 122 steals, 39 blocks

Magic Johnson – 23.96
26 Games, 558 points, 210 rebounds, 227 assists, 43 steals, 8 blocks

Larry Bird – 25.07
28 Games, 707 points, 276 rebounds, 152 assists, 51 steals, 13 blocks

Dominique Wilkins – 39.60
45 Games, 1612 points, 379 rebounds, 100 assists, 83 steals, 36 blocks

Tom Chambers – 35.59
45 Games, 1439 points, 407 rebounds, 119 assists, 40 steals, 43 blocks

Brad Daugherty – 24.74
43 Games, 740 points, 360 rebounds, 126 assists, 15 steals, 36 blocks

***

Rookie-Sophomore Game

Rookie Starters: Arvydas Sabonis (Suns), Chris Washburn (Nuggets), Len Bias (76ers), Ron Harper (Nuggets), Johnny Dawkins (Nuggets)

Rookie Bench: Brad Daughtery (Supersonics), Dennis Rodman (Rockets), Chuck Person (Bucks), Anthony Bowie (Spurs), Jeff Hornacek (Bullets), Roy Tarpley (Knicks), Dell Curry (Supersonics)

Sophomore Starters: Tyrone Corbin (Warriors), Patrick Ewing (Kings), Detlef Schrempf (Jazz), Chris Mullin (Trail Blazers), Terry Porter (Kings)

Sophomore Bench: Benoit Benjamin (Pistons), Karl Malone (Hawks), Jerry Reynolds (Supersonics), Gerald Wilkins (Cavaliers), Dexter Shouse (Celtics), A.C. Green (Spurs), Xavier McDaniel (Heat)

The Rookies defeated the Sophomores 118-110, led by Arvydas Sabonis, who put up a 27-10-3.

Rookies
Arvydas Sabonis: 27 PTS, 10 REB, 1 STL, 1 BLK, 11/18 FG, MVP
Johnny Dawkins: 17 PTS, 8 AST, 8/11 FG
Chuck Person: 13 PTS, 8 REB, 4 AST, 2 STL

Sophomores
Patrick Ewing: 18 PTS, 4 REB, 3 AST, 8/11 FG
Terry Porter: 17 PTS, 4 AST, 5 STL, 7/10 FG, 3/3 3P
Detlef Schrempf: 16 PTS, 6 REB, 6 AST, 5/9 FG, 4/7 3P

***

Andrew Toney won the Three-Point Shootout, winning a wild three-way battle against Dale Ellis and John Stockton.

Round One

1. Dale Ellis, STL: 18
2. Andrew Toney, GSW: 17
3. John Stockton, GSW: 14
4. Kiki Vandeweghe, GSW: 10 (ELIM)
5. Chris Mullin, POR: 8 (ELIM)
6. Byron Scott, POR: 5 (ELIM)

Round Two

1. Andrew Toney, GSW: 18 (Winner)
2. Dale Ellis: STL: 17
3. John Stockton: 17

***

Adrian Dantley avenged last season’s runner-up in the Dunk Contest, defeating rookie Len Bias in the final.

Round One

1. Adrian Dantley, BAL: 49.2
2. Len Bias, PHI: 46.8
3. Calvin Natt, NJN: 46.3 (ELIM)
4. Charles Barkley, NOJ: 45.4 (ELIM)
5. Buck Williams, STL: 45.0 (ELIM)
6. Bernard King, LAL: 42.9 (ELIM)

Round Two

1. Adrian Dantley, BAL: 60.7% (WINNER)
2. Len Bias, PHI: 39.3%

***

ALL-STAR GAME

Michael Jordan was the star of stars, leading the Eastern All-Stars over the Western All-Stars 157-143. MJ won MVP with 30 points.

Western Conference Starters
C – Hakeem Olajuwon, Kings (3rd Appearance)
PF – James Worthy, Mavericks (5th Appearance)
SF – Bernard King, Lakers (4th Appearance)
SG – Andrew Toney, Warriors (1st Appearance)
PG – Isiah Thomas, Mavericks (5th Appearance)

Western Conference Bench
Ralph Sampson, Mavericks (3rd Appearance)
Chris Mullin, Trail Blazers (1st Appearance)
John Stockton, Warriors (1st Appearance)
Patrick Ewing, Kings (2nd Appearance)
Kiki Vandeweghe, Warriors (3rd Appearance)
Kelly Tripucka, Rockets (2nd Appearance)
Clyde Drexler, Suns (3rd Appearance)

Eastern Conference Starters
C – Kevin McHale, Cavaliers (5th Appearance)
PF – Tom Chambers, Pistons (6th Appearance)
SF – Dominique Wilkins, Bulls (5th Appearance)
SG – Michael Jordan, Heat (3rd Appearance)
PG – Micheal Ray Richardson, Pistons (7th Appearance)

Eastern Conference Bench
Charles Barkley, Jazz (1st Appearance)
Len Bias, 76ers (1st Appearance)
Purvis Short, Celtics (2nd Appearance)
Bill Laimbeer, Hawks (3rd Appearance)
Orlando Woolridge, Cavaliers (2nd Appearance)
Fat Lever, Knicks (2nd Appearance)
Adrian Dantley, Bullets (8th Appearance)

West Best Performers
Hakeem Olajuwon: 21 PTS, 11 REB, 4 AST, 9/16 FG
Ralph Sampson: 25 PTS, 13 REB, 12/23 FG
Patrick Ewing: 23 PTS, 11/18 FG
Bernard King: 17 PTS, 6 REB, 5 AST
Andrew Toney: 16 PTS

East Best Performers
Michael Jordan: 30 PTS, 9 REB, 5 AST, 2 STL, 11/14 FG, MVP
Kevin McHale: 26 PTS, 7 REB, 3 BLK
Tom Chambers; 19 PTS, 7 REB
Purvis Short: 17 PTS, 6 REB
Orlando Woolridge: 15 PTS, 5 REB

Stats Site
​

 

[RDT]

End of the Season (86-87 Season)

Eastern Conference

Atlantic Division

Miami Heat (2)
1986-1987 Record: 61-21 (18-10, 17-2, 26-9)
Key Players: Michael Jordan (33.3 PPG, 6.8 RPG, 6.1 APG, 2.6 SPG, 57.8% FG, 82.4% FT, MVP), Sam Perkins (14.5 PPG, 8.6 RPG, 1.2 BPG), Xavier McDaniel (12.7 PPG, 6.2 RPG)
Big Moves: None

Michael Jordan continued his dominance of the league for the third straight season, this time leading Miami to a 61-win season (which included a 21-game winning streak). MJ was awarded the MVP as a result. The Heat won’t get much of a break as they look to make their first Finals…they’ll face Larry Bird and the Celtics…the team that knocked them out of the playoffs last season.

New Jersey Nets (4)
1986-1987 Record: 55-27 (15-9, 10-12, 30-6)
Key Players: Sidney Moncrief (20.2 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 4.4 APG, 2.4 SPG, 46.5% FG, 84.1% FT), Calvin Natt (17.4 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 50.4% FG), Cliff Robinson (17.5 PPG, 9.2 RPG, 1.5 SPG, 1.4 BPG), Moses Malone (14.8 PPG, 11.3 RPG, 1.4 BPG)
Big Moves: None

New Jersey turned it up to another level after the All-Star Break, going 30-6 and showing that they belong with the top tier teams in the East. They’ll be tested right away in a first round rematch against the Bulls.

Boston Celtics (7)
1986-1987 Record: 42-20 (14-11, 6-14, 22-15)
Key Players: Larry Bird (59 G, 24.3 PPG, 9.4 RPG, 6.2 APG, 1.8 SPG, 46.8% FG, 95.4% FT), Purvis Short (23.5 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 3.2 APG, 1.2 SPG), Larry Nance (52 G, 21.4 PPG, 8.1 RPG, 2.1 BPG, 53% FG), Michael Wiley (13.6 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 1.1 SPG, 49.5% FG)
Big Moves: None

With Larry Bird and Larry Nance back in the lineup, the Celtics got back to their winning ways and ended up finishing above .500. Boston has a tough first match-up in their quest to defend the NBA Title: MVP Michael Jordan and the Miami Heat.

Baltimore Bullets (8)
1986-1987 Record: 41-41 (13-11, 9-12, 19-18)
Key Players: Sam Bowie (16.5 PPG, 11.2 RPG, 2.4 BPG), Alex English (21.9 PPG, 7.3 RPG, 3.1 APG), Adrian Dantley (26 PPG, 7 RPG, 1.2 SPG, 50.% FG, 81.8% FT)
Big Moves: None

The Bullets improved overall from last season to finish .500 and nab the 8th seed. While the Bullets have a strong trio in Bowie, Dantley, and English, their first round opponent, the Pistons match-up well. One of Bowie, Dantley, or English will have to have a huge series for Baltimore to have a chance.

Philadelphia 76ers
1986-1987 Record: 34-48 (15-12, 2-17, 17-19)
Key Players: Len Bias (24.4 PPG, 8.5 RPG, 4 APG, 1.9 SPG, 49.6% FG, 84.9% FT, ROTY), Maurice Cheeks (15.0 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 7.0 APG, 2.3 SPG), Manute Bol (3.8 BPG)
Len Bias has already shown that he’s the real deal after a fantastic rookie season. The Sixers will need to add offense as they finished 23rd in offense, offsetting their 6th ranked defense.

New York Knicks
1986-1987 Record: 23-59 (9-13, 7-16, 7-30)
Key Players: Fat Lever (12.6 PPG, 9.1 RPG, 9.6 APG, 2 SPG), Tony Campbell (15 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 1.4 SPG), Antoine Carr (13.6 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 48.1% FG)
Big Moves: None

Fat Lever will need some scorers if the Knicks want to get out of the cellar and back to contention. The right luck could bring David Robinson in the draft.

Eastern Conference

Central Division

Detroit Pistons (1)
1986-1987 Record: 67-15 (18-6, 18-3, 31-6)
Key Players: Tom Chambers (32.3 PPG, 9.3 RPG, 55% FG, 81% FT, 34.4% 3P), Micheal Ray Richardson (15.8 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 10.7 APG, 1.6 SPG), David Thompson (14 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 46% FG, 80.8% FT), Dennis Johnson (11.9 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 5 APG, 2 SPG, 88.8% FT), Michael Cooper (58 G, 13.4 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 4.1 APG, 1.9 SPG, 1.2 BPG, 48.7% FG, 83% FT), Steve Johnson (10.2 PPG, 8.3 RPG, 2.1 BPG), Benoit Benjamin (3 BPG)
Big Moves: None

Detroit finishes with the 4th best NBA regular season record of all-time. With the league’s best defense combined with one of the best two-man offensive combos in the game, and players with deep playoff and even championship experience, it’s hard to bet against Detroit getting over the hump. They start off against Baltimore.

Cleveland Cavaliers (3)
1986-1987 Record: 60-22 (23-5, 14-5, 23-12)
Key Players: Kevin McHale (25.3 PPG, 12.4 RPG, 1.5 SPG, 3.9 BPG, 52.7% FG, 83.4% FT), Rolando Blackman (20.4 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 3.4 APG, 49.4% FG, 80.4% FT), Orlando Woolridge (19.1 PPG, 7.6 RPG, 1.2 BPG, 54.0% FG)
Big Moves: None

As good as Detroit is, the second best team in the league may be Cleveland. Cleveland ended up with the 4th ranked defense and offense and has one of the most versatile players in the league: Kevin McHale. They made the Conference Finals last season…there’s only one way to go up.

Chicago Bulls (5)
1986-1987 Record: 51-31 (17-8, 14-6, 20-17)
Key Players: Dominique Wilkins (35.3 PPG, 7.7 RPG, 1.8 SPG, 53.8% FG), Terry Cummings (20.1 PPG, 9.5 RPG, 1.2 SPG), Vinnie Johnson (13.4 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 3.7 APG, 1.4 SPG), Johnny Moore (8.9 PPG, 9.3 APG, 2 SPG), Alton Lister (7.5 PPG, 9.9 RPG, 3.9 BPG)
Big Moves: None

The Bulls did not finish strong after the All-Star Break, but they were still able to finish with over 50 wins. The Bulls will face the team in Round 1 that knocked them out in Round 1 last season, the Nets.

New Orleans Jazz (6)
1986-1987 Record: 42-40 (10-15, 11-10, 21-15)
Key Players: Charles Barkley (24.3 PPG, 13.9 RPG, 3.1 APG, 1.6 SPG, 54.1% FG), Jeff Malone (16.5 PPG), Detlef Schrempf (13.3 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 3.7 APG, 47.1% FG)
Big Moves: None

Charles Barkley went on a rampage in 1987, winning Most Improved Player of the Year and leading the Jazz to their first playoff berth. He’ll have his work cut out for him with Kevin McHale’s Cavs on the other end of the court.

Atlanta Hawks
1986-1987 Record: 36-46 (11-17, 9-9, 16-20)
Key Players: Mark Aguirre (18.1 PPG, 5.4 RPG), Karl Malone (17.0 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 1.3 SPG, 56.1% FG), Bill Laimbeer (14.9 PPG, 11.8 RPG, 1.5 BPG)
Big Moves: None

This season has to be considered a disappointment for the Hawks. With playoff expectations the Hawks never quite got going this season. With Aguirre locked up for five more seasons, the Hawks will likely continue to find a way to make the playoffs.

Indiana Pacers
1986-1987 Record: 16-66 (6-18, 5-17, 5-31)
Key Players: James Edwards (13.8 PPG, 7.5 RPG)
Big Moves: None

The hope for David Robinson begins.

Milwaukee Bucks
1986-1987 Record: 16-66 (5-22, 4-15, 7-29)
Key Players: Chuck Person (16.2 PPG, 6.3 RPG)
Big Moves: None

Chuck Person had a decent year, and the Bucks are hoping to pair him with David Robinson, if they are lucky enough.

Western Conference

Midwest Division

Dallas Mavericks (1)
1986-1987 Record: 64-18 (20-6, 14-8, 30-4)
Key Players: Isiah Thomas (19.8 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 11.7 APG, 3.0 SPG), James Worthy (23 PPG, 8.7 RPG, 1.2 SPG, 51.3% FG), Ralph Sampson (24 PPG, 10.2 RPG, 2 BPG, 51.9% FG)
Big Moves: None

The Mavericks remained healthy all season and as a result put together a 64-win campaign, dominating the Western Conference. Isiah, Worthy, and Ralph Sampson may be the best big three in the league. They’ll open the playoffs against their old cross-state rival, the Spurs.

Spirits of St. Louis (7)
1986-1987 Record: 45-37 (11-15, 11-9, 23-13)
Key Players: Buck Williams (20.4 PPG, 10.2 RPG, 56.3% FG), Otis Birdsong (19.9 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 3.5 APG, 1.8 SPG), Dale Ellis (19.6 PPG, 6.6 RPG, 1.4 SPG), Alvin Robertson (17.9 PPG, 6.9 RPG, 7.3 APG, 2.2 SPG), Mark Eaton (8.2 RPG, 3.8 BPG)
Big Moves: None

St. Louis has had another strong post All-Star Weekend run, pushing them to a 45-win seasons and the #7 seed. The Spirits have the firepower to hang with anyone in the league, and they’ll need every bit of it against the Kings. Mark Eaton will be put to the test handling Hakeem Olajuwon and Patrick Ewing.

San Antonio Spurs (8)
1986-1987 Record: 37-45 (11-13, 16-6, 10-26)
Key Players: George Gervin (13.8 PPG, 4.7 RPG), A.C. Green (13.3 PPG, 7.6 RPG, 49.2% FG), Ron Anderson (13.1 PPG, 5.7 RPG), Anthony Bowie (12.5 PPG, 4.7 RPG), LaSalle Thompson (9.1 PPG, 9.9 RPG, 2.5 BPG)
Big Moves: None

The Spurs came crashing down to earth after the All-Star Break, but it was enough to hold off the Rockets and lock up the last spot in the playoffs. They’re definitely a longshot, but the Iceman has one more chance to make a run.

Houston Rockets
1986-1987 Record: 34-48 (8-19, 10-10, 16-19)
Key Players: Kelly Tripucka (25.6 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 3.9 APG, 1.4 SPG, 49.3% FG), Darrell Griffith (18.9 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 3.3 APG, 1.4 SPG), Mike Woodson (15.3 PPG, 1.4 SPG), Kevin Willis (10.3 PPG, 9.1 RPG, 1.4 BPG), Charles Oakley (8.1 PPG, 9.6 RPG)
Big Moves: None

Houston right now is like a jigsaw puzzle with pieces that don’t fit with one another. They’ll have to make some moves to figure it all out.

Salt Lake Stallions
1986-1987 Record: 26-56 (6-17, 8-13, 12-26)
Key Players: Eddie Johnson (20.4 PPG, 6.6 RPG), Reggie Theus (18.3 PPG, 4 RPG, 4.8 APG, 1.6 SPG, 50.2% FG)
Big Moves: None

We’ll see if the Stallions can add useful pieces to Eddie Johnson and Reggie Theus…or if they’ll move on from them overall.

Denver Nuggets
1986-1987 Record: 26-56 (12-16, 2-17, 12-23)
Key Players: Ron Harper (15 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 4.3 APG, 1.6 SPG), Joe Barry Carroll (15.1 PPG, 7.7 RPG)
Big Moves: None

There’s some interesting talent in Denver. Ron Harper, Chris Washburn and Johnny Dawkins all had their moments. We’ll see if Denver can build on that, or add a blue chipper in the draft.

Western Conference

Pacific Division

Sacramento Kings (2)
1986-1987 Record: 58-24 (17-7, 17-5, 24-12)
Key Players: Hakeem Olajuwon (26.6 PPG, 12.3 RPG, 1.9 SPG, 4.4 BPG, 54.1% FG, DPOTY), Patrick Ewing (23 PPG, 9.4 RPG, 1.1 SPG, 2.1 BPG, 49.8% FG), Danny Ainge (14 PPG, 4 RPG, 3.6 APG, 1.5 SPG, 47.1% FG)

Big Moves: None

The Kings locked up a second straight Pacific Division title despite a spirited chase by the Warriors. Hakeem Olajuwon won his 2nd straight Defensive Player of the Year, and Patrick Ewing had an excellent sophomore season. The Kings will take on the Spirits in Round 1.

Golden State Warriors (3)
1986-1987 Record: 56-26 (17-10, 16-5, 23-11)
Key Players: Kiki Vandeweghe (25.6 PPG, 5 RPG, 3.1 APG, 37% 3P), Andrew Toney (21.3 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 3.5 APG, 1.1 SPG, 48.7% FG), John Stockton (16.7 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 11.6 APG, 2.7 SPG, 47.1% FG, 80.8% FT, 38.9% 3P), Darryl Dawkins (12.9 PPG, 9.9 RPG, 1.5 BPG, 50.9% FG), Danny Schayes (10.3 PPG, 10.5 RPG, 1.4 BPG)
Big Moves: None

Golden State’s years of team-building looked to pay off this season, as they nearly took down the Pacific Division crown and locked up the #3 seed. Andrew Toney, years after being drafted as the face of the Miami Heat, finally had a breakout season, starting for the Western All-Stars and winning the 6th Man of the Year award. John Stockton was so good in his third year he was awarded with All-NBA 2nd Team honors. The acquisition of Kiki Vandeweghe has paid off too as he once again was one of the best scorers in basketball. But now the real test for the Warriors is in front of them: they will face the Lakers in the playoffs for the 4th year in a row. Golden State has lost each of those series.

Portland Trail Blazers (4)
1986-1987 Record: 53-29 (15-10, 13-7, 25-12)
Key Players: Chris Mullin (18.5 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 1.8 SPG, 91.2% FT, 36% 3P), Byron Scott (15.8 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 3.8 APG, 1.6 SPG), Otis Thorpe (12.9 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 51.9% FG), Darrell Walker (13.0 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 4.8 APG, 2.6 SPG), Oscar Schmidt (13 PPG, 5 RPG, 44.1% FG, 90% FT, 40.1% 3P)
Big Moves: None

The Trail Blazers are perhaps the most well-rounded team in the Western Conference. The key to Portland’s success is how well they played at home, putting together a 35-6 record in the Memorial Coliseum. They open the playoff against the Suns, which should be a fun one.

Phoenix Suns (5)
1986-1987 Record: 28-19 (13-12, 15-7, 19-16)
Key Players: Ricky Pierce (21.2 PPG, 4.5 RPG), Clyde Drexler (21.3 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 4.5 APG, 2 SPG, 49.2% FG), Arvydas Sabonis (19.7 PPG, 10.1 RPG, 46% FG, 91.1% FT, 38.5% 3P), Jack Sikma (13.3 PPG, 10.9 RPG)
Big Moves: None

The Suns return to the playoffs after a missed year. Like their playoff opponent in the 1st Round, Portland, the Suns played much better at home as opposed to on the road. Drexler, Pierce, and Sabonis represent a top heavy team as opposed to Portland’s well-rounded approach, and they’ll need those three to have a great playoffs to advance.

Los Angeles Lakers (6)
1986-1987 Record: 46-36 (17-11, 10-11, 19-14)
Key Players: Magic Johnson (56 G, 21.3 PPG, 9.1 RPG, 10.1 APG, 1.8 SPG, 52.6% FG, 91.2% FT), Marques Johnson (17.8 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 1.1 SPG), Robert Parish (12.9 PPG, 8.6 RPG), Bernard King (28.9 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 3.1 APG, 1.2 SPG, 53.4% FG), Doc Rivers (14.2 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 5.5 APG, 1.4 SPG)
Big Moves: None

The good news for the Lakers is that Magic Johnson started looking like Magic Johnson again once he returned from his injury. There’s a lot of questions surrounding contractual statuses in LA, and how this playoff run goes may answer a lot of them. The Lakers will face the Warriors in the playoffs for the 4th consecutive season, a rivalry LA has won each time so far.

Seattle Supersonics
1986-1987 Record: 22-60 (7-15, 5-16, 10-19)
Key Players: Brad Daugherty (17 PPG, 8 RPG)
Big Moves: None

Brad Daughtery has proven to be a bright spot for the Sonics. They’ll look to add another top rookie prospect in this off-season’s draft, and if they’re lucky, they could pair Daughtery with David Robinson.

Anaheim Light
1986-1987 Record: 8-39 (3-23, 5-16, 0-35)
Key Players: Jawann Oldham (9.2 PPG, 8.7 RPG, 1.4 BPG), Joe Dumars (11.2 PPG)
Big Moves: None

The Light finished their first season in Anaheim as the worst team in NBA history. At least they are position to completely rebuild.

***

NOTABLE GAMES

11/4 – Heat 122, NETS 105 – Michael Jordan makes an opening day statement, dropping a 41-11 with 4 steals on Atlantic Division rival New Jersey

11/4 – KINGS 122, Spirits 84 – The Kings lose Patrick Ewing (19 points in 20 minutes), but Hakeem drops a 32-12 with 3 steals and 4 blocks to put St. Louis down anyway

11/4 – NUGGETS 127, Celtics 119 – Denver upsets defending NBA Champion Boston behind strong rookie performances from Chris Washburn (22 points) and Ron Harper (19 points)

11/5 – CAVALIERS 99, Pacers 79 – Kevin McHale destroys the Pacers with 33 points, 17 rebounds and 9 blocks

11/5 – PISTONS 127, Suns 100 – Tom Chambers welcomes Arvydas Sabonis to the NBA with 45 points and 13 boards

11/7 – SUNS 125, Kings 118 – Hakeem was amazing with 41 points and 18 rebounds, but the Suns got 66 combined points from Clyde Drexler and Ricky Pierce, while rookie Sabonis had a 22-10-8 with 3 steals

11/7 – 76ERS 85, Nets 69 – The Sixers shut down the Nets, and the #1 pick Len Bias drops a 27-9-6

11/8 – WARRIOS 118, Knicks 115 (OT) – John Stockton and Fat Lever put on a show in Golden State’s OT win. Stockton has 21 points, 17 assists and 6 steals against Lever’s 24 points, 17 rebounds and 14 assists

11/11 – KINGS 111, Hawks 86 – Hakeem drops 35 points, 13 rebounds, 5 steals and 4 blocks, overcoming Bill Laimbeer’s 22 rebounds

11/12 – HEAT 114, Nets 107 – Michael Jordan destroys the Nets again, this time with 52 points

11/18 – Kings 93, LIGHT 91 – Hakeem continues to put up insane lines, this time a 40-point, 22-rebound, 3-steal, 3-block demolishing of the Light

11/21 – MAVERICKS 122, Kings 117 – Isiah Thomas dishes out a NBA record 29 assists in a battle between the best two teams in the West

11/21 – Heat 117, LAKERS 104 – Michael Jordan makes a statement that it’s his league now as he drops 48 on the Lakers

11/22 – Pistons 115, MAVERICKS 114 (OT) – The Pistons win a thriller in OT in a battle of two of the top teams in the NBA. Micheal Ray put up a 24-14-12 with 5 steals, enough to offset Isiah’s 23 assists

11/28 – HEAT 133, Jazz 129 – MJ went nuts again, dropping 55 points

12/9 – BULLETS 132, Heat 124 – Sam Bowie puts up perhaps the best game of his career with a 34-18-5, as Alex English and Adrian Dantley added 57 combine points

12/16 – Pistons 109, KNICKS 97 – Micheal Ray outplays Fat Lever with a 25-17-10 against a 10-8-16-5

12/23 – Bulls 133, ROCKETS 120 – Dominique Wilkins drops 70, the second time in two seasons the Rockets allowed a player to hit that mark

12/28 - Kings 116, CAVALIERS 109 – In a battle of the two best centers in the league, Hakeem gets the better of McHale with a 33-17 with 3 steals and 4 blocks against a 36-14

12/29 – KINGS 115, Mavericks 103 – Hakeem again outplays one of the best centers in the league with a 29-12 with 4 steals and 6 blocks against Ralph Sampson’s 34-15

12/29 – CAVALIERS 114, Celtics 97 – Kevin McHale puts together an insane 47-point, 18-rebound, 7-block gem to take down the defending NBA Champs

1/7 – PISTONS 133, Warriors 127 (OT) – In a classic OT battle, Tom Chambers drops 53 to beat the Warriors

1/11 – BULLS 118, Bucks 97 – ‘Nique drops 59, destroying the Bucks

1/17 – Pistons 126, LAKERS 115 – Tom Chambers once again has a monster game, dropping 54 on the Lakers

1/28 – KINGS 104, Nuggets 97 – Hakeem goes wild on the Nuggets with 28 points, 13 rebounds and 11 blocked shots

1/30 – JAZZ 124, Spirits 100 – Charles Barkley continues his rampage on the league with 44 points and 24 rebounds, completely dominating Buck Williams

1/31 – Bulls 108, CAVALIERS 104 – Chicago defeats division rival Cleveland thanks to ‘Nique’s 50

2/11 – Pistons 125, BULLETS 101 – Tom Chambers continues his dominance with another 50-point performance, adding 14 boards and 6 assists. Micheal Ray helped for most of his baskets, handing out 20 assists

2/15 – BULLS 134, Warriors 129 – Dominique drops 57 in a statement game against the powerful Warriors

2/18 – HEAT 130, Rockets 116 – Michael Jordan drops a 50-6-8-6 against the Rockets

3/2 – JAZZ 119, Bulls 111 – Charles Barkley powers his way to 30 rebounds, 12 of them on the offensive end, to help the Jazz upset the Bulls

3/9 – BULLETS 148, Heat 122 – The Bullets end the 21 game win streak of the Heat thanks to big games from Alex English (29-7-5), Adrian Dantley (27-5-4) and Sam Bowie (18-10-5-2-2). They overcame Michael Jordan’s 41-8-9 too

3/10 – MAVERICKS 121, Kings 106 – Despite Hakeem (26-19, 11 blocks) and Ewing (39 points) going off, Dallas wins this battle of two of the best teams in the west behind Isiah’s 27-17 with 7 steals

3/22 – KINGS 116, Cavaliers 113 (OT) – Hakeem and Ewing’s all-around brilliance (29-12 with 9 blocks and 27-13-5-5 respectively) helps overcome Kevin McHale’s 42 points

3/28 – CELTICS 129, Heat 121 – Larry Bird regains his MVP form, leading the Celtics with a 37-13-11 over Michael Jordan (43-7-7) and the Heat

4/4 – 76ERS 116, Bulls 112 – Len Bias shows off his superstar potential with a 34-10-10 and 6 steals to overcome ‘Nique’s 47

4/9 – LAKERS 122, Mavericks 118 (OT) – Magic goes for a 28-19-14, overcoming Isiah’s near quadruple-double (27-8-16-8) to lead the Lakers to a big win over the top ranked Mavericks

4/13 – HEAT 132, Lakers 122 – Michael Jordan show’s Magic who’s league it is with 54 points, 12 rebounds and 8 assists

4/17 – MAVERICKS 142, Lakers 127 – James Worthy’s 56 bests Bernard King’s 48 as the Mavericks get revenge from the prior week

4/18 – Pistons 125, SPIRITS 114 – Tom Chambers makes his MVP case with a 56-19

4/20 – JAZZ 126, Celtics 118 – Charles Barkley guarantees the Jazz a winning season and a playoff berth with 42 points

***

AWARDS

Most Valuable Player
Michael Jordan (1), Heat: 82 G, 33.3 PPG, 6.8 RPG, 6.1 APG, 2.6 SPG, 57.8% FG, 82.4% FT

Rookie of the Year
Len Bias, 76ers: 82 G, 24.4 PPG, 8.5 RPG, 4.0 APG, 1.9 SPG, 49.6% FG, 84.9% FT

Defensive Player of the Year
Hakeem Olajuwon (2), Kings: 81 G, 1.9 SPG, 4.4 BPG, 95.2 DEF EFF (2nd)

6th Man of the Year
Andrew Toney (1), Warriors: 82 G, 13 GS, 21.3 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 3.5 APG, 1.1 SPG, 48.7% FG, 80.1% FT

Most Improved Player
Charles Barkley (1), Jazz: 82 G, 24.3 PPG, 13.9 RPG, 3.1 APG, 1.6 SPG, 54.1% FG

Coach of the Year
Lenny Wilkens (2), Pistons: 67-15 (4th All-Time), 11 Game Improvement, #1 in Central Division, #1 Seed in Eastern Conference

NBA 1st Team
Hakeem Olajuwon, Kings (2nd: 1/1/0)
Dominique Wilkins, Bulls (5th: 3/0/2)
Tom Chambers, Pistons (3rd: 1/2/0)
Michael Jordan, Heat (3rd: 2/1/0)
Isiah Thomas, Mavericks (4th: 2/2/0)

NBA 2nd Team
Kevin McHale, Cavaliers (5th: 3/2/0)
Charles Barkley, Jazz (1st: 0/1/0)
Len Bias, 76ers (1st: 0/1/0)
Adrian Dantley, Stallions (7th: 1/4/2)
John Stockton, Warriors (1st: 0/1/0)

NBA 3rd Team
Ralph Sampson, Mavericks (3rd: 0/1/2)
Clyde Drexler, Suns (2nd: 0/0/3)
Kelly Tripucka, Rockets (2nd: 0/0/2)
Sidney Moncrief, Nets (6th: 1/2/3)
Micheal Ray Richardson, Pistons (7th: 3/2/2)

All-Defense 1st Team
Hakeem Olajuwon, Kings (2nd: 2/0)
Len Bias, 76ers (1st: 1/0)
Cliff Robinson, Nets (1st: 1/0)
Isiah Thomas, Mavericks (2nd: 2/0)
Michael Jordan, Heat (2nd: 1/1)

All-Defense 2nd Team
Kevin McHale, Cavaliers (4th: 0/4)
Clyde Drexler, Suns (1st: 0/1)
Dominique Wilkins, Bulls (1st: 0/1)
John Stockton, Warriors (1st: 0/1)
Darrell Walker, Trail Blazers (1st: 0/1)

All-Rookie 1st Team
Arvydas Sabonis, Suns
Len Bias, 76ers
Chuck Person, Bucks
Ron Harper, Nuggets
Johnny Dawkins, Nuggets

All-Rookie 2nd Team
Brad Daugherty, Supersonics
Chris Washburn, Nuggets
Dennis Rodman, Rockets
Anthony Bowie, Spurs
Jeff Hornacek, Bullets

***

Top 10 PPG
1. Dominique Wilkins (2), CHI, 35.3 (Champion)
2. Michael Jordan, MIA, 33.3
3. Tom Chambers, DET, 32.3
4. Bernard King, LAL, 28.9
5. Hakeem Olajuwon, SAC, 26.6
6. Adrian Dantley, BAL, 26.0
7. Kiki Vandeweghe, GSW, 25.6
8. Kelly Tripucka, HOU, 25.6
9. Kevin McHale, CLE, 25.3
10. Len Bias, PHI, 24.4

Top 10 RPG
1. Charles Barkley (1), NOJ, 13.9 (Champion)
2. Kevin McHale, CLE, 12.4
3. Hakeem Olajuwon, SAC, 12.3
4. Bill Laimbeer, ATL, 11.8
5. Moses Malone, NJN, 11.3
6. Sam Bowie, BAL, 11.2
7. Jack Sikma, PHX, 10.9
8. Danny Schayes, GSW, 10.5
9. Buck Williams, STL, 10.2
10. Ralph Sampson, DAL, 10.2

Top 10 APG
1. Isiah Thomas (2), DAL, 11.7 (Champion)
2. John Stockton, GSW, 11.6
3. Micheal Ray Richardson, DET, 10.7
4. Magic Johnson, LAL, 10.1
5. Fat Lever, NYK, 9.6
6. Johnny Moore, CHI, 9.3
7. Alvin Robertson, STL, 7.3
8. Maurice Cheeks, PHI, 7.0
9. Brad Davis, SAS, 6.2
10. Larry Bird, BOS, 6.2

Top 5 SPG
1. Isiah Thomas (1), DAL, 3.0 (Champion)
2. John Stockton, GSW, 2.7
3. Michael Jordan, MIA, 2.6
4. Darrell Walker, POR, 2.6
5. Sidney Moncrief, NJN, 2.4

Top 5 BPG
1. Hakeem Olajuwon (1), SAC, 4.4 (Champion)
2. Kevin McHale, CLE, 3.9
3. Alton Lister, CHI, 3.9
4. Mark Eaton, STL, 3.8
5. Manute Bol, PHI, 3.8

***

Player of the Week (Listed By Week Ending)
11/9 – Magic Johnson, Lakers, Dominique Wilkins, Bulls
11/16 – Magic Johnson, Lakers, Len Bias, 76ers
11/23 – Hakeem Olajuwon, Kings, Michael Jordan, Heat
11/30 – Arvydas Sabonis, Suns, Michael Jordan, Heat
12/7 – Adrian Dantley, Stallions, Dominique Wilkins, Bulls
12/14 – Isiah Thomas, Mavericks, Michael Jordan, Heat
12/21 – Hakeem Olajuwon, Kings, Tom Chambers, Pistons
12/28 – Bernard King, Lakers, Dominique Wilkins, Bulls
1/4 – Bernard King, Lakers, Charles Barkley, Jazz
1/11 – Bernard King, Lakers, Michael Jordan, Heat
1/18 – Bernard King, Lakers, Tom Chambers, Pistons
1/25 – Hakeem Olajuwon, Kings, Len Bias, 76ers
2/1 – Eddie Johnson, Stallions, Adrian Dantley, Bullets
2/8 – Hakeem Olajuwon, Kings, Michael Jordan, Heat
2/15 – Hakeem Olajuwon, Kings, Dominique Wilkins, Bulls
2/22 – Hakeem Olajuwon, Kings, Michael Jordan, Heat
3/1 – Isiah Thomas, Mavericks, Michael Jordan, Heat
3/8 – John Stockton, Warriors, Dominique Wilkins, Bulls
3/15 – John Stockton, Warriors, Michael Jordan, Heat
3/22 – Magic Johnson, Lakers, Charles Barkley, Jazz
3/29 – Arvydas Sabonis, Suns, Michael Jordan, Heat
4/5 – Ralph Sampson, Mavericks, Michael Jordan, Heat
4/12 – Magic Johnson, Lakers, Larry Bird, Celtics
4/19 – Magic Johnson, Lakers, Michael Jordan, Heat

Player of the Month
November: Magic Johnson, Lakers, Michael Jordan, Heat
December: Hakeem Olajuwon, Kings, Michael Jordan, Heat
January: Bernard King, Lakers, Tom Chambers, Pistons
February: Hakeem Olajuwon, Kings, Michael Jordan, Heat
March: Hakeem Olajuwon, Kings, Michael Jordan, Heat
April: Magic Johnson, Lakers, Michael Jordan, Heat

Rookie of the Month
November: Arvydas Sabonis, Suns, Len Bias, 76ers
December: Arvydas Sabonis, Suns, Len Bias, 76ers
January: Arvydas Sabonis, Suns, Len Bias, 76ers
February: Brad Daugherty, Sonics, Len Bias, 76ers
March: Arvydas Sabonis, Suns, Len Bias, 76ers
April: Arvydas Sabonis, Suns, Len Bias, 76ers

Here is the current list of which draft picks are owned by whom.

Here is a list of the top prospects for the next three drafts.

***

Fantasy Standings

1986-1987 Fantasy Stats

@Dubble J – 532.47

Michael Jordan – 85.97 (3rd)
82 Games, 2729 Points, 558 Rebounds, 503 Assists, 215 Steals, 59 Blocks

Larry Bird – 53.12 (31st)
59 Games, 1432 Points, 555 Rebounds, 365 Assists, 105 Steals, 26 Blocks

Isiah Thomas – 83.75 (4th)
77 Games, 1527 Points, 380 Rebounds, 902 Assists, 233 Steals, 15 Blocks

Kevin McHale – 91.92 (2nd)
82 Games, 2076 Points, 1020 Rebounds, 149 Assists, 125 Steals, 323 Blocks

Hakeem Olajuwon – 98.21 (1st)
81 Games, 2157 Points, 1000 Rebounds, 151 Assists, 153 Steals, 353 Blocks

Len Bias – 69.97 (10th, 1st Rookie)
82 Games, 1997 Points, 695 Rebounds, 330 Assists, 152 Steals, 77 Blocks

@AlanSmithee1981 – 372.31

Michael Jordan – 85.97 (3rd)
82 Games, 2729 Points, 558 Rebounds, 503 Assists, 215 Steals, 59 Blocks

Magic Johnson – 56.86 (23rd)
56 Games, 1192 Points, 512 Rebounds, 565 Assists, 100 Steals, 21 Blocks

Larry Bird – 53.12 (31st)
59 Games, 1432 Points, 555 Rebounds, 365 Assists, 105 Steals, 26 Blocks

Dominique Wilkins – 69.8 (11th)
82 Games, 2898 Points, 631 Rebounds, 190 Assists, 148 Steals, 58 Blocks

Tom Chambers – 66.57 (13th)
82 Games, 2647 Points, 763 Rebounds, 226 Assists, 76 Steals, 82 Blocks

Brad Daugherty – 39.99 (91st, 6th Rookie)[/B]
71 Games, 1209 Points, 568 Rebounds, 196 Assists, 32 Steals, 55 Blocks

Congratulations to @Dubble J on winning his 2nd straight Regular Season Fantasy Title! With the 10% bonus, he’ll score 586 points!

@Dubble J : 2,802 Points (6x Champion (2x Season, 4x Playoffs): 1986, 1987 Season, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1985 Playoffs)
1981 Playoffs: 302 (Champion)
1982 Playoffs: 237 (Champion)
1983 Playoffs: 269 (Champion)
1984 Playoffs: 220
1985 Playoffs: 422 (Champion)
1986 Regular Season: 459 (Champion)
1986 Playoffs: 317
1987 Regular Season: 586 (Champion)

@Alansmithee: 1,846 Points (2x Champion (2x Playoffs): 1984, 1986 Playoffs)
1983 Playoffs: 215
1984 Playoffs: 394 (Champion)
1985 Playoffs: 381
1986 Playoffs: 484 (Champion)
1987 Regular Season: 372

@BattleTank : 411 Points
1986 Regular Season: 411

@Grim : 447 Points (1x Champion (1x Playoffs): 1980 Playoffs)
1980 Playoffs: 55 (Champion)
1981 Playoffs: 90
1986 Playoffs: 302

@Joey Bananas : 55 Points
1981 Playoffs: 55

The goal for prediction results: when we get into the late 2020s and 2030s, to allow users to create their own rookies based on the prediction points they built up.

***

Stats Site​

​

 

[RDT]

Playoff Preview
Western Conference Round 1

Best of Five
#8 San Antonio Spurs (37-45) vs. #1 Dallas Mavericks (64-18)

Season Results – Mavericks Win 4-1
1/17 – MAVERICKS 115, Spurs 91 (DAL: J.Worthy: 32 PTS, 10 REB, I. Thomas: 10 PTS, 16 AST, SAS: A. Bowie: 15 PTS, 8 REB)
1/26 – Mavericks 103, SPURS 90 (DAL: R. Sampson: 30 PTS, 8 REB, J. Worthy: 27 PTS, 8 REB, SAS: G. Gervin: 25 PTS, 8 REB, 5 AST)
1/9 – SPURS 124, Mavericks 118 (SAS: A. Green: 26 PTS, 9 REB, A. Bowie: 21 PTS, 9 REB, 5 AST, DAL: I. Thomas: 26 PTS, 12 AST, R. Sampson: 21 PTS, 8 REB)
2/16 – MAVERICKS 104, Spurs 68 (DAL: R. Sampson: 15 PTS, 17 REB, 3 BLK, I. Thomas: 16 PTS, 6 REB, 7 AST, 4 STL, SAS: R. Anderson: 15 PTS, 6 REB)
3/15 – MAVERICKS 112, Spurs 106 (DAL: J. Worthy: 26 PTS, 11 REB, I. Thomas: 19 PTS, 6 REB, 7 AST, R. Sampson: 23 PTS, 8 REB, 5 AST)

Series Preview
The Mavericks-Spurs rivalry begun when Dallas, in their third season of existence, made the playoffs for the first time. The defending NBA Champion Spurs made quick work of the young Mavericks, but the rivalry was born. The Mavericks got revenge the very next season in 1984, defeating the Spurs in an epic seven-game series to reach their first Conference Finals. In 1985 the Spurs pushed Dallas to the full five games in the first round before Dallas prevailed. Two years later, the Mavericks meet the Spurs once again, although each team are in very different positions. The Spurs are hanging onto the Iceman era, almost accidentally falling into a playoff spot this season. Isiah, Sampson, and Worthy all have championship aspirations this season, and as the #1 seed are the Western Conference favorites.

San Antonio Spurs
Record: 37-45
PPG: 95.1 (19th)
oPPG: 97.9 (6th)
Offensive Eff: 98.5 (19th)
Defensive Eff: 101.4 (10th)
eFG: 44.0% (21st)
Reb%: 49.3% (17th)

Starters/Key Players
C – LaSalle Thompson – 9.1 PPG, 9.9 RPG, 1.1 SPG, 2.5 BPG
PF – A.C. Green – 13.3 PPG, 7.6 RPG
SF – George Gervin – 13.8 PPG, 4.7 RPG
SG – Ron Anderson – 13.1 PPG, 5.7 RPG
PG – Frank Johnson – 8.5 PPG, 4.5 APG, 1.4 SPG
6th Man – Anthony Bowie – 12.5 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 1.9 SPG

Key Injuries
None

Dallas Mavericks
Record: 64-18
PPG: 113.1 (3rd)
oPPG: 101.2 (10th)
Offensive Eff: 107.7 (3rd)
Defensive Eff: 96.3 (3rd)
eFG: 50.2% (2nd)
Reb%: 49.7% (15th)

Starters/Key Players
C – Ralph Sampson – 24 PPG, 10.2 RPG, 2 BPG, 51.9% FG, All-NBA 3rd Team, All-Star
PF – James Worthy – 23 PPG, 8.7 RPG, 1.2 SPG, 51.3% FG, All-Star
SF – Jerome Kersey – 11 PPG, 7.3 RPG, 2.2 SPG, 55.8% FG
SG – Gerald Henderson – 9.8 PPG, 3.4 APG, 1.8 SPG
PG – Isiah Thomas – 19.8 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 11.7 APG, 3 SPG, All-NBA 1st Team, All-Defense 1st Team, All-Star

Key Injuries
Mike McGee – 22 MPG, 7.7 PPG, May return near the end of the series is it goes four or five games.

Best of Five
#5 Phoenix Suns (47-35) vs. #4 Portland Trail Blazers (53-29)

Season Results – Trail Blazers win 3-2
12/11 – TRAIL BLAZERS 112, Suns 79 (POR: D. Walker: 21 PTS, 5 REB, 4 AST, O. Thorpe: 20 PTS, 12 REB, PHO: C. Drexler: 17 PTS, 3 STL, A. Sabonis: 13 PTS, 10 REB)
12/17 – TRAIL BLAZERS 118, Suns 98 (POR: B. Scott: 25 PTS, 4 REB, 3 AST, 3 STL, O. Schmidt: 26 PTS, PHO: C. Drexler: 23 PTS, 6 REB, 5 STL)
12/29 – TRAIL BLAZERS 100, Suns 82 (POR: C. Mullin: 28 PTS, 5 REB, PHO: A. Sabonis: 21 PTS, 9 REB)
1/29 – SUNS 115, Trail Blazers 100 (PHO: C. Drexler: 33 PTS, 9 REB, 9 AST, R. Pierce: 27 PTS, 6 REB, POR: C. Mullin: 33 PTS, 4 REB, 4 AST)
3/14 – SUNS 101, Trail Blazers 99 (PHO: C. Drexler: 26 PTS, 5 REB, POR: O. Thorpe: 21 PTS, 9 REB)

Series Preview
The Portland Trail Blazers put together their best regular season since the Bill Walton era, winning 53 games and securing home court advantage for at least the opening series. This is the accumulation of a three year rebuilding period. Portland returned to the playoffs last year but failed to win a game. Chris Mullin has been a diamond for the Trail Blazers, but the team is well rounded, featuring youngsters Otis Thorpe, Michael Cage, Oscar Schmidt, Byron Scott and Darrell Walker. The Suns have taken a different journey to return to the playoffs. Two seasons ago, Clyde Drexler led the Suns to a surprising berth in the Western Conference Finals, but then surprisingly missed the playoffs outright last season. Now reformed with rookie Arvydas Sabonis and former All-Star Ricky Pierce, the Suns have returned to the playoffs.

Phoenix Suns
Record: 47-35
PPG: 105.7 (10th)
oPPG: 102.5 (14th)
Offensive Eff: 107.5 (5th)
Defensive Eff: 104.3 (17th)
eFG: 48.4% (5th)
Reb%: 50.4% (13th)

Starters/Key Players
C – Arvydas Sabonis – 19.7 PPG, 10.1 RPG, 3.6 APG, 46% FG, 91.1% FT, 38.5% 3P
PF – Jack Sikma – 13.3 PPG, 10.9 RPG
SF – Clyde Drexler – 21.3 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 4.5 APG, 2 SPG, 49.2% FG, All-NBA 3rd Team, All-Defense 2nd Team, All-Star
SG – Ricky Pierce – 21.2 PPG, 4.5 RPG
PG – Brad Davis – 11.9 PPG, 3.1 RBG, 6.2 APG, 1.5 SPG
6th Man – Craig Hodges – 9.1 PPG

Key Injuries
None

Portland Trail Blazers
Record: 53-29
PPG: 104.6 (13th)
oPPG: 97.8 (5th)
Offensive Eff: 105.1 (8th)
Defensive Eff: 98.5 (7th)
eFG: 48% (8th)
Reb%: 51% (10th)

Starters/Key Players
C- Otis Thorpe – 12.9 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 51.9% FG
PF- Michael Cage – 10.1 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 1.1 SPG, 1.3 BPG, 49.9% FG
SF – Oscar Schmidt – 13 PPG, 5 RPG, 44.1% FG, 90% FT, 40.1% 3P
SG – Chris Mullin – 18.5 PPG, 1.8 SPG, 46.3% FG, 91.2% FT, 36% 3P
PG – Byron Scott – 15.8 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 3.8 APG, 1.6 SPG
6th Man – Darrell Walker – 13 PPG, 4 RPG, 4.8 APG, 2.6 SPG

Key Injuries
None

Best of Five
#7 Spirits of St. Louis (45-37) vs. #2 Sacramento Kings (58-24)

Season Results – Kings win 3-2
11/4 – KINGS 112, Spirits 84 (SAC: H. Olajuwon: 32 PTS, 12 REB, 3 STL, 4 BLK, STL: B. Williams: 20 PTS, 8 REB)
11/14 – SPIRITS 128, Kings 120 (STL: D. Ellis: 29 PTS, 2 STL, B. Williams: 26 PTS, 15 REB, SAC: H. Olajuwon: 39 PTS, 15 REB, 3 STL, 2 BLK)
12/12 – Kings 93, SPIRITS 79 (SAC: D. Ainge: 30 PTS, 8 REB, H. Olajuwon: 16 PTS, 8 REB, 4 AST, 4 STL, 6 BLK, STL: A. Robertson: 17 PTS, 8 REB, 11 AST, B. Williams: 15 PTS, 17 REB)
2/14 – KINGS 129, Spirits 94 (SAC: H. Olajuwon: 35 PTS, 11 REB, 6 STL, 3 BLK, P. Ewing: 31 PTS, 9 REB, 3 BLK, STL: D. Ellis: 20 PTS, 7 REB)
3/13 – SPIRITS 96, Kings 81 (STL: O. Birdsong: 23 PTS, 6 REB, 4 AST, A. Robertson: 21 PTS, 9 REB, 5 AST, SAC: H. Olajuwon: 21 PTS, 17 REB, 3 STL, 9 BLK)

Series Preview
The Kings took down a second straight Pacific Division title behind the twin monsters Hakeem Olajuwon and Patrick Ewing. Hakeem especially dominated the Spirits throughout the season. Mark Eaton and Buck Williams have shown little success in trying to stop Hakeem. Still, the Spirits have a way to win the series. Dale Ellis, Otis Birdsong, and Danny Ainge at anytime can go off and win the series if need be. In their fourth year, the Spirits have made the playoffs in three of them, and each year they’ve made it a little farther than the year before. They’ll have to find a way to get by the mighty Kings if they want to continue that streak. It won’t be easy.

Spirits of St. Louis
Record: 45-37
PPG: 106.7 (8th)
oPPG: 104.8 (19th)
Offensive Eff: 103.3 (13th)
Defensive Eff: 101.7 (11th)
eFG: 46.8% (11th)
Reb%: 52.4% (2nd)

Starters/Key Players
C – Mark Eaton – 4.3 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 3.8 BPG
PF – Buck Williams – 19.6 PPG, 6.6 RPG, 1.4 SPG, 56.3% FG
SF – Dale Ellis – 19.6 PPG, 6.6 RPG, 1.4 SPG, 48.5% FG, 34.8% 3P
SG – Otis Birdsong – 19.9 PPG, 4.5 RPG
PG – Alvin Robertson – 17.9 PPG, 6.9 RPG, 7.3 APG, 2.2 SPG

Key Injuries
None

Sacramento Kings
Record: 58-24
PPG: 105.1 (12th)
oPPG: 95.6 (4th)
Offensive Eff: 104.6 (10th)
Defensive Eff: 95.2 (2nd)
eFG: 46.8% (10th)
Reb%: 51.2% (7th)

Starters/Key Players
C – Hakeem Olajuwon – 26.6 PPG, 12.3 RPG, 1.9 SPG, 4.4 BPG, 54.1% FG, Defensive Player of the Year, All-NBA 1st Team, All-Defense 1st Team, All-Star
PF – Patrick Ewing – 23 PPG, 9.4 RPG, 1.1 SPG, 2.1 BPG, 49.8% FG
SF – Mike O’Koren – 7.5 PPG, 4.1 RPG
SG – Danny Ainge – 14 PPG, 4 RPG, 3.6 APG, 1.5 SPG, 47.1% FG
PG – Terry Porter – 10.3 PPG, 3.9 APG, 1.8 SPG
6th Man – Sedale Threatt – 10.0 PPG

Key Injuries
None

Best of Five
#6 Los Angeles Lakers (46-36) vs. #3 Golden State Warriors (56-26)

Season Results – Warriors win 3-2
11/11 – LAKERS 132, Warriors 123 (LAL: Magic Johnson: 31 PTS, 8 REB, 14 AST, Marques Johnson: 30 PTS, 8 REB, 7 AST, GSW: D. Bradley: 36 PTS, K. Vandeweghe: 30 PTS, 6 REB, J. Stockton: 13 PTS, 5 REB, 16 AST)
1/18 – WARRIORS 123, Lakers 87 (GSW: J. Stockton: 23 PTS, 5 REB, 6 AST, D. Dawkins: 18 PTS, 14 REB, LAL: B. King: 22 PTS, 4 REB, 4 AST, 4 STL)
1/28 – WARRIORS 122, Lakers 120 (GSW: J. Stockton: 25 PTS, 6 REB, 14 AST, D. Dawkins: 23 PTS, 10 REB, 5 AST, 2 BLK, LAL: B. King: 39 PTS, 6 REB)
2/20 – WARRIORS 144, Lakers 106 (GSW: A. Toney: 27 PTS, 6 AST, T. Corbin: 26 PTS, LAL: Magic Johnson: 8 PTS, 11 REB, 10 AST, B. King: 23 PTS, 8 REB, 5 AST)
3/2 – LAKERS 121, Warriors 97 (B. King: 42 PTS, Magic Johnson: 13 PTS, 11 REB, 20 AST)

Series Preview
Lakers vs. Warriors IV. For the fourth straight year the Lakers and Warriors meet in the playoffs. In 1984 the Lakers wiped out the Warriors in five in a Semi-Final battle in route to the Lakers’ first title in the ‘80s. They meant again in the Semis in 1985, and this time the series went the distance but the Lakers once again prevailed, and once again won the NBA title. Last season’s battle was in the first round, where the Lakers dispatched the Warriors in four games. For the first time though, it’s the Warriors with home court advantage and the higher seed. Veterans Kiki Vandeweghe, Andrew Toney, and Darryl Dawkins join third year star John Stockton in perhaps the most exciting offense in the NBA. But the Lakers, who have represented the Western Conference in the NBA Finals for four straight years, are healthy and looking for five. Magic Johnson played well down the stretch, Bernard King, in a contract year, is looking to play great and big men Robert Parish and Marques Johnson provide a strong front loaded roster. Can the Warriors get by the Lakers?

Los Angeles Lakers
Record: 46-36
PPG: 108.7 (6th)
oPPG: 106.7 (24th)
Offensive Eff: 105.1 (9th)
Defensive Eff: 103.1 (12th)
eFG: 47% (9th)
Reb%: 51.1% (8th)​

Starters/Key Players
C – Robert Parish: 12.9 PPG, 8.6 RPG, 1.7 BPG
PF – Marques Johnson: 17.8 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 1.1 SPG
SF – Bernard King – 28.9 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 1.2 SPG, 53.4% FG, All-Star
SG – Doc Rivers: 14.2 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 5.5 APG, 1.4 SPG
PG – Magic Johnson – 21.3 PPG, 9.1 RPG, 10.1 APG, 1.8 SPG, 52.6% FG, 91.2% FT
6th Man – Cliff Levingston – 7.4 PPG, 5.8 RPG

Key Injuries
None

Golden State Warriors
Record: 56-26
PPG: 114.6 (1st)
oPPG: 109.4 (26th)
Offensive Eff: 108.6 (2nd)
Defensive Eff: 103.5 (13th)
eFG: 50.9% (1st)
Reb%: 48.2% (22nd)​

Starters/Key Players
C- Darryl Dawkins – 12.9 PPG, 9.9 RPG, 1.5 BPG, 50.9% FG
PF- Danny Schayes – 10.3 PPG, 10.5 RPG, 3.1 APG, 1.4 BPG, 49.2% FG
SF – Kiki Vandeweghe – 25.6 PPG, 5 RPG, 3.1 APG, 37% 3P, All-Star
SG – Dudley Bradley – 12.5 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 1.7 SPG
PG – John Stockton – 16.7 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 11.6 APG, 2.7 SPG, 47.1% FG, 80.8% FT, 38.9% 3P, All-NBA 2nd Team, All-Defense 2nd Team, All-Star
6th Man – Andrew Toney – 21.3 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 3.5 APG, 1.1 SPG, 48.7% FG, 80.1% FT, 6th Man of the Year, All-Star​

Key Injuries
Al Wood – Bench player who averaged 7 PPG in 15 MPG, started last season

Eastern Conference Round 1

Best of Five

#8 Baltimore Bullets (41-41) vs. #1 Detroit Pistons (67-15)

Season Results – Pistons win 5-0
11/11 – Pistons 121, BULLETS 109 (DET: T. Chambers: 31 PTS, 9 REB, M. Richardson: 19 PTS, 7 REB, 12 AST, BAL: A. English: 27 PTS, 10 REB, 7 AST, S. Bowie: 22 PTS, 15 REB, 4 AST)
12/15 – PISTONS 124, Bullets 98 (DET: T. Chambers: 28 PTS, 10 REB, M. Richardson: 22 PTS, 10 REB, 10 AST, D. Johnson: 22 PTS, 6 REB, 5 AST, BAL: A. English: 24 PTS)
2/11 – Pistons 125, BULLETS 101 (DET: T. Chambers: 50 PTS, 14 REB, 6 AST, 2 BLK, M. Richardson: 4 PTS, 7 REB, 20 AST, BAL: S. Bowie: 22 PTS, 11 REB, 4 AST, A. Dantley: 23 PTS)
4/10 – PISTONS 102, Bullets 93 (DET: T. Chambers: 26 PTS, 12 REB, 5 AST, BAL: A. English: 27 PTS, 7 REB)
4/14 – Pistons 118, BULLETS 102 (DET: T. Chambers: 47 PTS, 15 REB, 3 STL, M. Cooper: 23 PTS, 6 REB, 5 AST, 3 STL, 2 BLK, BAL: A. English: 30 PTS, 12 REB, A. Dantley: 27 PTS, 12 REB)​

Series Preview
The Pistons are out for revenge. Despite a big season in ’86 Detroit was sent packing in the first round. They came back by upgrading Fat Lever into Micheal Ray Richardson and Skywalker David Thompson, and behind perhaps the most talented team in the league won 67 games. Tom Chambers and Micheal Ray engineered the offense while Benoit Benjamin, Michael Cooper, and Dennis Johnson locked up opposing offenses. The Bullets have some formidable weapons on offense: scorers Alex English and Adrian Dantley as well as emerging big man Sam Bowie. This is Baltimore’s second straight playoff appearance and last year they gave the Cavs a little scare. They’ll need to do more to serve Detroit a second straight playoff disappointment.

Baltimore Bullets (41-41)
Record: 41-41
PPG: 106.5 (9th)
oPPG: 108.2 (25th)
Offensive Eff: 102.2 (15th)
Defensive Eff: 103.9 (14th)
eFG: 44.3% (18th)
Reb%: 48.3% (21st)​

Starters/Key Players
C – Sam Bowie – 16.5 PPG, 11.2 RPG, 2.4 BPG
PF – Alex English – 21.9 PPG, 7.3 RPG
SF – Sonny Parker: 7.5 PPG, 5.4 RPG
SG – Adrian Dantley: 26 PPG, 7 RPG, 1.2 SPG, 50.6% FG, All-NBA 2nd Team, All-Star
PG – Kelvin Ransey: 10.3 PPG, 4.3 ASG
6th Man – Jeff Hornacek: 8.8 PPG, 3.9 RPG​

Key Injuries
None

Detroit Pistons (67-15)
Record: 67-15
PPG: 112.5 (4th)
oPPG: 99.3 (7th)
Offensive Eff: 107.5 (6th)
Defensive Eff: 94.9 (1st)
eFG: 49.5% (3rd)
Reb%: 52.1% (4th)​

Starters/Key Players
C – Benoit Benjamin – 6.1 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 3 BPG, 55% FG
PF – Tom Chambers – 32.3 PPG, 9.3 RPG, 55% FG, 81% FT, 34.4% 3P, All-NBA 1st Team, All-Star
SF – Michael Cooper – 13.4 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 4.1 APG, 1.9 SPG, 1.2 BPG, 48.7% FG
SG – Dennis Johnson: 11.9 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 5 APG, 2 SPG
PG – Micheal Ray Richardson: 15.8 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 10.7 APG, 1.6 SPG, All-NBA 3rd Team, All-Star
6th Man – David Thompson: 14 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 46% FG, 80.8% FT​

Key Injuries
None​

Best of Five
#5 Chicago Bulls (51-31) vs. #4 New Jersey Nets (55-27)

Season Results – Bulls win 3-2
11/9 – Bulls 129, NETS 105 (D. Wilkins: 38 PTS, 10 REB, T. Cummings: 27 PTS, NJN: S. Moncrief: 36 PTS)
11/13 – BULLS 110, Nets 92 (CHI: D. Wilkins: 32 PTS, 4 REB, 3 STL, NJN: S. Moncrief: 19 PTS, 8 REB, 8 AST)
12/13 – NETS 114, Bulls 113 (NJN: C. Natt: 28 PTS, 6 REB, 7 AST, CHI: D. Wilkins: 51 PTS, 10 REB)
1/29 – BULLS 96, Nets 92 (CHI: D. Wilkins: 38 PTS, 10 REB, NJN: S. Moncrief: 24 PTS, 6 AST)
4/7 – NETS 119, Bulls 117 (C. Natt: 27 PTS, 8 REB, 5 AST, S. Moncrief: 22 PTS, 5 REB, 6 AST, CHI: D. Wilkins: 42 PTS, 6 AST, 3 STL)​

Series Preview
It’s rematch time! The Nets took out the Bulls in four games in the first round last season. The season prior the Bulls got as close to winning the NBA Title as you can without actually winning it: losing a seven-game series to the Lakers. The Bulls still have those title aspirations as Dominique Wilkins continues his run as a completely unstoppable scorer. The Nets, despite having perhaps the best top 4 in the league (Moses Malone, Sidney Moncrief, Cliff Robinson, and Calvin Natt), have failed to advance past the second round each of the last three seasons. Both of these teams have the goal of winning the NBA title, and once again one of them will end up horribly disappointed with a first round exit.

Chicago Bulls
Record: 51-31
PPG: 109.7 (5th)
oPPG: 102.6 (15th)
Offensive Eff: 106.8 (7th)
Defensive Eff: 99.9 (9th)
eFG: 48.3% (6th)
Reb%: 52.3% (3rd)​

Starters/Key Players
C – Alton Lister – 7.5 PPG, 9.9 RPG, 3.9 BPG, 50.7% FG
PF – Terry Cummings – 20.1 PPG, 9.5 RPG, 1.2 SPG
SF – Dominique Wilkins – 35.3 PPG, 7.7 RPG, 1.8 SPG, 53.8% FG, Scoring Champion, All-NBA 1st Team, All-Defense 2nd Team, All-Star
SG – Vinnie Johnson – 13.4 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 3.7 APG, 1.4 SPG
PG – Johnny Moore – 8.9 PPG, 9.3 APG, 2 SPG
6th Man – Craig Ehlo – 8.4 PPG​

Key Injuries
None

New Jersey Nets
Record: 55-27
PPG: 100.5 (16th)
oPPG: 94.6 (2nd)
Offensive Eff: 103.5 (12th)
Defensive Eff: 97.4 (5th)
eFG%: 44.9% (16th)
Reb%: 54% (1st)​

Starters/Key Players
C – Moses Malone – 14.8 PPG, 11.3 RPG, 1.4 BPG
PF – Cliff Robinson – 17.5 PPG, 9.2 RPG, 1.5 SPG, 1.4 BPG, All-Defense 1st Team
SF – Terry Catledge – 9.2 PPG, 5.5 RPG
SG – Calvin Natt – 17.4 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 50.4% FG
PG – Sidney Moncrief – 20.2 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 4.4 APG, 2.4 SPG, All-NBA 3rd Team​

Key Injuries
None​

Best of Five
#7 Boston Celtics (42-40) vs. #2 Miami Heat (61-21)

Season Results – Heat win 3-2
11/27 – HEAT 118, Celtics 111 (MIA: M. Jordan: 35 PTS, 6 REB, 6 AST, 5 STL, S. Perkins: 21 PTS, 13 REB, 5 AST, BOS: L. Bird: 28 PTS, 10 REB, 6 AST, L. Nance: 21 PTS, 11 REB, 3 STL, P. Short: 26 PTS)
2/10 – Heat 113, CELTICS 104 (MIA: M. Jordan: 35 PTS, 7 REB, 4 AST, BOS: M. Wiley: 31 PTS, 8 REB)
3/28 – CELTICS 129, Heat 121 (BOS: L. Bird: 37 PTS, 13 REB, 11 AST, 3 STL, P. Short: 29 PTS, 4 REB, 5 AST, 6 STL, L. Nance: 26 PTS, MIA: M. Jordan: 43 PTS, 7 REB, 7 AST, S. Perkins: 27 PTS, 8 REB)
4/4 – HEAT 113, Celtics 101 (MIA: M. Jordan: 35 PTS, 15 REB, 10 AST, 5 STL, BOS: L. Nance: 30 PTS, 7 REB)
4/6 – Celtics 115, HEAT 106 (BOS: L. Bird: 31 PTS, 9 AST, P. Short: 29 PTS, 8 REB, L. Smith: 20 REB, MIA: M. Jordan: 29 PTS, 6 REB, 8 AST, S. Perkins: 23. PTS, 12 REB, 6 AST)​

Series Preview​

Another Eastern Conference rematch, this time of the Semi-Finals last season. Larry Bird powered the Celtics past MJ and Miami in 7 games in route to the NBA title. The defending NBA Champion Celtics have struggled this year, mainly due to injuries to Bird and Nance. But they are healthy now, and will pose a serious first round challenge to the Heat. The Heat though, have the league’s MVP in Michael Jordan. MJ has arguably been the best player in basketball since the moment he debuted in the league, leading Miami to a playoff appearance each year. This year the expectations are higher.

Boston Celtics
Record: 42-40
PPG: 102.5 (15th)
oPPG: 104 (18th)
Offensive Eff: 102.7 (14th)
Defensive Eff: 104.2 (16th)
eFG%: 45.2% (15th)
Reb%: 50.6% (12th)​

Starters/Key Players
C – Larry Smith – 5.8 PPG, 9 RPG
PF – Larry Nance – 52 G, 21.4 PPG, 8.1 RPG, 2.1 BPG, 53% FG
SF – Larry Bird – 59 G, 24.3 PPG, 9.4 RPG, 6.2 APG, 1.8 SPG, 46.8% FG, 95.4% FT
SG – Purvis Short – 23.5 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 1.2 SPG, All-Star
PG – Gus Williams – 10.1 PPG, 4.9 APG, 1.8 SPG
6th Man – Michael Wiley: 13.6 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 1.1 SPG​

Key Injuries
None

Miami Heat
Record: 61-21
PPG: 113.8 (2nd)
oPPG: 103.5 (17th)
Offensive Eff: 109.6 (1st)
Defensive Eff: 99.6 (8th)
eFG%: 48.8% (4th)
Reb%: 51.7% (5th)​

Starters/Key Players
C – Sam Perkins – 14.5 PPG, 8.6 RPG, 1.2 BPG
PF – Xavier McDaniel – 12.7 PPG, 6.2 RPG
SF – Albert King – 8.6 PPG, 4.2 RPG
SG – Michael Jordan – 33.3 PPG, 6.8 RPG, 6.1 APG, 2.6 SPG, 57.8% FG, 82.4% FT
PG – Derek Harper – 10.8 PPG, 5.7 APG, 1.5 SPG
6th Man – Clark Kellogg – 11.3 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 1.4 SPG​

Key Injuries
None

Best of Five
#6 New Orleans Jazz (42-40) vs. #3 Cleveland Cavaliers (60-22)

Season Results – Cavs win 4-1
11/18 – Cavaliers 111, JAZZ 97 (CLE: K. McHale: 23 PTS, 15 REB, 3 BLK, O. Woolridge: 23 PTS, 9 REB, 6 AST, NOJ: C. Barkley: 15 PTS, 17 REB, 3 STL, D. Schrempf: 19 PTS, 9 REB)
12/5 – Jazz 99, CAVALIERS 98 (NOJ: C. Barkley: 19 PTS, 14 REB, CLE: K. McHale: 25 PTS, 18 REB, 2 BLK)
12/6 – Cavaliers 112, JAZZ 103 (CLE: O. Woolridge: 28 PTS, 8 REB, 6 AST, K. McHale: 21 PTS, 12 REB, NOJ: C. Barkley: 13 PTS, 16 REB, 8 AST)
1/7 – CAVALIERS 111, Jazz 97 (CLE: K. McHale: 26 PTS, 10 REB, 3 STL, O. Woolridge: 25 PTS, 5 REB, NOJ: C. Barkley: 18 PTS, 7 REB, 6 AST)
4/23 – CAVALIERS 105, Jazz 99 (CLE: K. McHale: 34 PTS, 15 REB, 6 BLK, O. Woolridge: 18 PTS, 17 REB, NOJ: D. Schrempf: 22 PTS, 11 REB)

Series Preview
This is the first playoffs for the new New Orleans Jazz. Led by the Most Improved Player in the NBA Charles Barkley, New Orleans bulldozed their way to a playoff berth. Unfortunately, the Cavs are well equipped to handle the Jazz, with Kevin McHale and Orlando Woolridge able to bang with Barkley. Rolando Blackman didn’t shine against the Jazz in the regular season, but he’s still a weapon that New Orleans needs to deal with. The Cavs went to the Eastern Conference Finals last season and will certainly be eyeing the NBA Finals. We’ll see if the Jazz can find an upset.

New Orleans Jazz
Record: 42-40
PPG: 107.0 (7th)
oPPG: 106.6 (23rd)
Offensive Eff: 104.3 (11th)
Defensive Eff: 104 (15th)
eFG%: 45.9% (12th)
Reb%: 51.3% (6th)​

Starters/Key Players
C – Bill Cartwright – 13.4 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 1.1 BPG
PF – Charles Barkley – 24.3 PPG, 13.9 RPG, 3.1 APG, 1.6 SPG, 54.1% FG, Most Improved Player, Rebounding Champion, All-NBA 2nd Team, All-Star
SF – Detlef Schrempf – 13.3 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 3.7 APG, 47.1% FG, 82.2% FT
SG – Jamaal Wilkes – 6.8 PPG, 3.5 RPG
PG – Jeff Malone – 16.5 PPG, 3.1 RPG, 3.3 APG
6th Man – Quintin Dailey – 9.4 PPG​

Key Injuries
None

Cleveland Cavaliers
Record: 60-22
PPG: 105.6 (11th)
oPPG: 95.4 (3rd)
Offensive Eff: 107.6 (4th)
Defensive Eff: 97.2 (4th)
eFG%: 48.3% (7th)
Reb%: 48.8% (18th)​

Starters/Key Players
C – Kevin McHale – 25.3 PPG, 12.4 RPG, 1.5 SPG, 3.9 BPG, 52.7% FG, 83.4% FT, All-NBA 2nd Team, All-Defense 2nd Team, All-Star
PF – Orlando Woolridge – 19.1 PPG, 7.6 RPG, 1.2 BPG, 54% FG
SF – Rolando Blackman – 20.4 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 3.4 APG, 49.4% FG, 80.4% FT
SG – Gerald Wilkins – 10.2 PPG, 4.1 RPG
PG – Jim Paxson – 11 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 3.1 APG, 1.6 SPG​

Key Injuries
None

***
Prediction Contest – Only Predict Round 1 For Now​

1st Round – Picking the Winning Team is worth 10 Points, Picking the Highest Point Scorer in the Series is worth 3 Points, Picking the Exact Amount of Games is worth 2 Points​

Semi-Finals – Picking the Winning Team is worth 25 Points, Picking the Exact Amount of Games is worth 5 Points​

Conference Finals – Picking the Winning is worth 50 Points, Picking the Exact Amount of Games is worth 10 Points​

NBA Finals – Picking the Winning Team is Worth 100 Points, Picking the Exact Amount of Games is worth 20 Points​

Guessing the Finals MVP: Worth 20 Points​

Winning the Competition Each Year: Worth +10%​

The goal for prediction results: when we get into the late 2020s and 2030s, to allow users to create their own rookies based on the prediction points they built up.​

Past Prediction Results​

@Dubble J : 2,802 Points (6x Champion (2x Season, 4x Playoffs): 1986, 1987 Season, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1985 Playoffs)
1981 Playoffs: 302 (Champion)
1982 Playoffs: 237 (Champion)
1983 Playoffs: 269 (Champion)
1984 Playoffs: 220
1985 Playoffs: 422 (Champion)
1986 Regular Season: 459 (Champion)
1986 Playoffs: 317
1987 Regular Season: 586 (Champion)​

@Alansmithee: 1,846 Points (2x Champion (2x Playoffs): 1984, 1986 Playoffs)
1983 Playoffs: 215
1984 Playoffs: 394 (Champion)
1985 Playoffs: 381
1986 Playoffs: 484 (Champion)
1987 Regular Season: 372​

@BattleTank : 411 Points
1986 Regular Season: 411​

@Grim : 447 Points (1x Champion (1x Playoffs): 1980 Playoffs)
1980 Playoffs: 55 (Champion)
1981 Playoffs: 90
1986 Playoffs: 302​

@Joey Bananas : 55 Points
1981 Playoffs: 55​

The goal for prediction results: when we get into the late 2020s and 2030s, to allow users to create their own rookies based on the prediction points they built up.

Stats Site​

 

[AlanSmithee1981]

My picks: Mavericks in 4 (Isiah Thomas), Suns in 5 (Clyde Drexler), Kings in 3 (Hakeem Olajuwon), Lakers in 5 (Bernard King), Pistons in 3 (Tom Chambers), Bulls in 5 (Dominique Wilkins), Heat in 4 (Michael Jordan), and Cavs in 4 (Kevin McHale)...