NBA: The Modern Game Era

[RDT]

Game 1: #4 Portland Trail Blazers vs. #2 Dallas Mavericks

The Mavericks had no time to rest as the Trail Blazers gave them everything they could handle in Game 1. In a game where the biggest lead was 4 points each way, Portland held onto a two-point lead with a minute to go…when Bernard King stole a Brad Daugherty pass and hit a breakaway jam, deflating the crowd in Dallas. Dallas couldn’t find a basket at the end, and Portland took Game 1.

King didn’t shoot well, but his 30 points was enough to carry Portland to home court advantage.

Trail Blazers 110, MAVERICKS 107 (Trail Blazers lead 1-0)

Trail Blazers Stats
Bernard King: 30 PTS, 5 AST, 3 STL
Darrell Walker: 16 PTS, 7 REB, 6 AST, 2 STL
Chris Mullin: 24 PTS, 2 STL

Mavericks Stats
Isiah Thomas: 20 PTS, 5 REB, 10 AST
James Worthy: 18 PTS, 10 REB, 5 AST

***

Game 1: #2 New Orleans Jazz vs. #1 Miami Heat

In this highly anticipated Eastern Conference battle, defense won over offense as the Heat held the best offense in basketball to under 100 points. Michael Jordan kicked things off with a 34-7-7, and Sidney Moncrief caused Magic Johnson all kinds of problems. Squid ended up with 28 points, while Magic shot 3 for 15.

New Orleans will need to find a way to penetrate the best defensive guard tandem in the league.

HEAT 112, Jazz 99 (Heat lead 1-0)

Jazz Stats
Charles Barkley: 26 PTS, 14 REB, 4 BLK
Detlef Schrempf: 21 PTS, 9 REB

Miami Heat
Michael Jordan: 34 PTS, 7 REB, 7 AST, 4 STL
Sidney Moncrief: 28 PTS, 7 REB

***

Game 2: #4 Portland Trail Blazers vs. #2 Dallas Mavericks (Trail Blazers lead 1-0)

In a shocking development, the Trail Blazers overpowered the Mavericks in Dallas for the second straight game, putting Dallas in tons of trouble. Bernard King again led the way with 33 points, and no one for the Mavericks is able to explode to keep up.

The Mavericks have been met with so many disappointments over the past few seasons and it’s looking like that again. Portland can outright close the series without returning to Dallas.

Trail Blazers 121, MAVERICKS 112 (Trail Blazers lead 2-0)

Trail Blazers Stats
Bernard King: 33 PTS, 4 AST
Chris Mullin: 20 PTS, 5 REB, 7 AST, 3 STL

Mavericks Stats
Isiah Thomas: 28 PTS, 10 AST, 4 STL
James Worthy: 26 PTS, 7 REB, 4 AST

***

Game 2: #2 New Orleans Jazz vs. #1 Miami Heat (Heat lead 1-0)

Looks like the Jazz figured it out. Magic Johnson struck back from his poor opening game with an 18-13-16 to lead New Orleans to a huge Game 2 victory. Michael Jordan, while he played well, did not completely dominate, allowing New Orleans to pull away and win. Series moves onto New Orleans with the Jazz in control.

Jazz 118, HEAT 105 (Series tied 1-1)

Jazz Stats
Charles Barkley: 22 PTS, 7 REB
Magic Johnson: 18 PTS, 13 REB, 16 AST, 5 STL
Quintin Dailey: 18 PTS, 2 STL

Miami Heat
Michael Jordan: 26 PTS, 5 REB, 6 AST, 4 STL
Kevin Duckworth: 20 PTS, 7 REB
Sidney Moncrief: 18 PTS, 7 REB, 9 AST, 6 STL

***

Game 3: #2 Dallas Mavericks vs. #4 Portland Trail Blazers (Trail Blazers lead 2-0)

Off to Portland, where it was the Mavericks that finally found some life. Game 3 was all Isiah Thomas, as he completely controlled the game and led the pull away in the 4th quarter. Isiah had a 28-16 and was aided by James Worthy’s 24 and Dell Curry’s 20.

Portland still has control of the series, but this guarantees that we’ll return to Dallas at least.

Mavericks 122, TRAIL BLAZERS 104 (Trail Blazers lead 2-1)

Mavericks Stats
Isiah Thomas: 28 PTS, 16 AST, 4 STL
Dell Curry: 20 PTS, 7 REB, 6 AST, 4 STL
James Worthy: 24 PTS, 12 REB, 5 AST

Trail Blazers Stats
Bernard King: 26 PTS, 5 REB, 5 AST
Chris Mullin: 20 PTS, 4 STL

***

Game 3: #1 Miami Heat vs. #2 New Orleans Jazz(Series tied 1-1)

Who’s game is it? It’s Michael Jordan’s game.

Jordan destroyed the Jazz for 50 points and 12 assists, completely destroying the New Orleans defense, to give control of the series back to the Heat. Strong games from Magic Johnson and Charles Barkley went for naught as Jordan continually drove to the basket and either scored or got to the line (hitting 14 of 16 there).

This was MJ’s first playoff game with more than 34 points in 1988. Good time for it.

Heat 131, JAZZ 115 (Heat lead 2-1)

Miami Heat
Michael Jordan: 50 PTS, 6 REB, 12 AST, 5 STL, 3 BLK
Sidney Moncrief: 17 PTS, 6 REB, 10 AST

Jazz Stats
Charles Barkley: 26 PTS, 13 REB, 4 AST, 3 STL
Magic Johnson: 23 PTS, 7 REB, 18 AST, 3 STL
Detlef Schrempf: 17 PTS, 3 REB, 3 AST, 7/11 FG

***

Game 4: #2 Dallas Mavericks vs. #4 Portland Trail Blazers (Trail Blazers lead 2-1)

Not to be outdone by others in the league, Bernard King went off for 47 to put the Trail Blazers on the brink of the NBA Finals. King was completely unstoppable, hitting jumpers all over the court, with James Worthy, Dell Curry, and Louis Orr having no answer for him whatsoever.

Portland is now one game away from returning to the NBA Finals, they last were there 11 years ago when they won the title behind Bill Walton. The Mavericks, a top 2 seed for five straight years, now stare at a fifth straight disappointing playoff exit.

TRAIL BLAZERS 124, Mavericks 106 (Trail Blazers lead 3-1)

Mavericks Stats
Isiah Thomas: 29 PTS, 6 REB, 12 AST, 3 STL
Brad Daugherty: 22 PTS, 9 REB

Trail Blazers Stats
Bernard King: 47 PTS, 4 REB
Darrell Walker: 14 PTS, 12 AST, 5 STL
Johnny Newman: 19 PTS

***

Game 4: #1 Miami Heat vs. #2 New Orleans Jazz (Heat lead 2-1)

The powerful Jazz offense overpowered Miami’s defense again, while a big game from Bill Cartwright helped New Orleans tie the series at two. The Jazz had four players score 19+ while Michael Jordan “only” went for 35.

We head back to Miami for a pivotable Game 5.

JAZZ 128, Heat 115 (Series tied 2-2)

Miami Heat
Michael Jordan: 35 PTS, 4 REB, 7 AST, 4 STL, 2 BLK
Sidney Moncrief: 17 PTS, 7 REB

Jazz Stats
Charles Barkley: 28 PTS, 18 REB, 8 AST
Bill Cartwright: 27 PTS, 4 REB, 5 AST, 3 BLK
Magic Johnson: 22 PTS, 6 REB, 11 AST, 4 STL
Detlef Schrempf: 19 PTS, 5 REB, 5 AST

***

Game 5: #4 Portland Trail Blazers vs. #2 Dallas Mavericks (Trail Blazers lead 3-1)

The Trail Blazers will have to wait. The Mavericks looked like an entirely different team in Game 5, hitting 57% of their shots and only committing 4 turnovers. No one on Portland could get going and Bernard King shot a dismal 9 for 24. Portland has a chance to finish Dallas at home still.

MAVERICKS 125, Trail Blazers 88 (Trail Blazers lead 3-2)

Trail Blazers Stats
Bernard King: 20 PTS
Michael Cage: 11 PTS, 11 REB

Mavericks Stats
James Worthy: 29 PTS, 10/16 FG, 9/10 FT
Isiah Thomas: 20 PTS, 13 AST, 5 STL
Jerome Kersey: 20 PTS, 9/11 FG

***

Game 5: #2 New Orleans Jazz vs. #1 Miami Heat (Series tied 2-2)

The Heat exploited the weak defense of the Jazz, pouring 137 points, to move Miami to within one game of the NBA Finals. Michael Jordan was dominant all over the court, scoring 40 with 13 assists and 7 steals. Most of those steals came from Magic Johnson, who turned the ball over 11 times. Charles Barkley tried to keep New Orleans in the game, but the Heat were too strong.

The series moves back to New Orleans where the Jazz can force Game 7.

HEAT 137, Jazz 116 (Heat lead 3-2)

Jazz Stats
Charles Barkley: 39 PTS, 10 REB
Magic Johnson: 14 PTS, 7 REB, 17 AST, 11 TOs
Detlef Schrempf: 19 PTS, 7 REB, 10 AST, 9/12 FG

Miami Heat
Michael Jordan: 40 PTS, 6 REB, 13 AST, 7 STL
Sidney Moncrief: 21 PTS, 8 REB, 10 AST, 6 STL
Xavier McDaniel: 18 PTS

***

Game 6: #2 Dallas Mavericks vs. #4 Portland Trail Blazers (Trail Blazers lead 3-2)

In perhaps the most important game in Dallas Maverick history, the Mavericks came through in a nailbiter to beat the Trail Blazers in Portland and force a decisive Game 7. It wasn’t easy. Bernard King had 40 for the Trail Blazers, although he missed a key shit with 44 seconds left that would have given Portland the lead. Brad Daugherty would sink his 20th and 21st points on the next possession, pushing the lead to three. Portland couldn’t get off a three, and the Mavericks survived.

Isiah Thomas was great once again, leading Dallas with 29 points and 11 assists. Game 7 is back in Dallas. While it is on Dallas’ home floor, Portland did win Games 1 and 2 there.

Mavericks 112, TRAIL BLAZERS 109 (Series tied 3-3)

Mavericks Stats
Isiah Thomas: 29 PTS, 11 AST, 2 STL
Brad Daugherty: 21 PTS, 7 REB, 4 AST, 2 STL, 8/10 FG
James Worthy: 23 PTS, 5 Reb, 5 AST
Dell Curry: 17 PTS, 7 REB, 5 AST, 3 STL

Trail Blazers Stats
Bernard King: 40 PTS, 9 REB, 10 AST
Darrell Walker: 16 PTS, 8 REB, 4 AST

Game 6: #1 Miami Heat vs. #2 New Orleans Jazz (Heat lead 3-2)

The Jazz brought a 10-point lead into the 4th quarter…but then it was Michael Jordan time once again. Jordan and the Heat outscored the hometown Jazz 36-26 in the 4th, forcing overtime, then dominated the overtime period to earn the win and the franchise’s first trip to the NBA Finals.

The game was wild from the opening tip. New Orleans scored 72 first-half points. Miami’s comeback almost went for naught, but Kevin Duckworth hit two clutch free throws with 7 seconds left to force OT. Ron Brewer took a potential game winning three and had a great look as all attention was on Schrempf and Magic on the perimeter, but Brewer was way off.

Then there was Jordan, who once again decimated the Jazz defense to the tune of another 47 points. Magic was great too, but just not great enough.

The Heat will wait for the winner of Game 7 between Portland and Dallas.

New Orleans will likely run this back, once they lock-up Charles Barkley, who will definitely be getting the max.

Heat 151 JAZZ 143 (OT) (Heat win 4-2)


Miami Heat
Michael Jordan: 35 PTS, 4 REB, 7 AST, 4 STL, 2 BLK
Sidney Moncrief: 17 PTS, 7 REB

Jazz Stats
Charles Barkley: 28 PTS, 18 REB, 8 AST
Bill Cartwright: 27 PTS, 4 REB, 5 AST, 3 BLK
Magic Johnson: 22 PTS, 6 REB, 11 AST, 4 STL
Detlef Schrempf: 19 PTS, 5 REB, 5 AST

***

Game 7: #4 Portland Trail Blazers vs. #2 Dallas Mavericks (Series tied 3-3)

Both the Mavericks and Trail Blazers came out in full force in an epic Game 7 that came down to the wire. Portland was able to obtain a double-digit lead early, but Dallas put together a strong 4th quarter to bring it back. With 5 minutes to go Dallas took their first lead of the game off an Isiah Thomas lay-up, and after some back and forth held on to complete the 3-1 comeback and defeat the Trail Blazers.

The story of the game will likely be Bernard King and his high shot attempts. King scored 32 points, but took 38 shots and it may have been just a bit too much for the Trail Blazers to overcome on this night. To be fair, the end of the game was not without controversy as Portland had a chance to tie or even win, but Alton Lister was called for an illegal screen that ended the Portland possession. Obviously no one was happy on the Portland bench with that call, but that was that.

The Mavericks finally get the Finals monkey off their back, but life won’t get any easier as they’ll take on Michael Jordan, Sidney Moncrief and the Heat.

MAVERICKS 113, Trail Blazers 111 (MAVERICKS win 4-3)

Trail Blazers Stats
Bernard King: 32 PTS, 9 REB, 7 AST
Michael Cage: 19 PTS, 14 REB
Chris Mullin: 22 PTS, 4 REB, 4 AST

Mavericks Stats
James Worthy: 25 PTS, 11 REB, 2 BLK
Isiah Thomas: 24 PTS, 5 REB, 14 AST, 4 STL
Brad Daugherty: 15 PTS, 9 REB, 6 AST

***

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Playoff Preview
NBA Finals

Best of Seven (2-3-2 Format)
#2 Dallas Mavericks (55-27) vs. #1 Miami Heat (61-21)

Season Results – Heat win 2-0
1/4 – HEAT 118, Mavericks 89 (MIA: M. Jordan: 22 PTS, 8 REB, 8 AST)
4/16 – Heat 119, MAVERICKS 106 (MIA: M. Jordan: 32 PTS, 8 REB, 10 AST, S. Moncrief: 25 PTS, 10 REB, 4 AST, 4 STL, DAL: I. Thomas: 20 PTS, 8 AST)

Miami Heat (61-21)
PPG: 111.6 (4th)
oPPG: 98.1 (4th)
Offensive Eff: 108.1 (2nd)
Defensive Eff: 94.9 (1st)
eFG: 47.9% (10th)
Reb%: 53.9% (1st)

Starters/Key Players
C – Kevin Duckworth – 11.1 PPG, 6.4 RPG, 49.6% FG
PF – Xavier McDaniel – 11.5 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 48.7% FG
SF – Albert King – 9.6 PPG, 5 RPG, 1.1 SPG
SG – Michael Jordan – 30.3 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 6.2 APG, 2.7 SPG, 55.4% FG, 81.5% FT, NBA MVP, All-NBA 1st Team, All-Defense 1st Team, All-Star
PG – Sidney Moncrief – 18.3 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 5.2 APG, 3 SPG, All-Defense 1st Team

Key Injuries
None

Dallas Mavericks (55-27)
PPG: 111.3 (6th)
oPPG: 103.3 (15th)
Offensive Eff: 107.6 (5th)
Defensive Eff: 99.9 (8th)
eFG: 50% (2nd)
Reb%: 50% (14th)

Starters/Key Players
C – Brad Daugherty – 15.9 PPG, 9 RPG, 52.2% FG
PF – Jerome Kersey – 12.6 PPG, 6.5 RPG, 1.3 SPG, 55.9% FG
SF – James Worthy – 20.6 PPG, 7 RPG, 1.5 SPG, 49.8% FG
SG – Dell Curry – 12.4 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 1.6 SPG, 37.6% 3P
PG – Isiah Thomas – 25 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 11.3 APG, 2.6 SPG, All-NBA 2nd Team, All-Defense 2nd Team, All-Star

Key Injuries
Gerald Henderson – Day to day recovering from a broken arm.

Series Preview
It took eight full season for both the Miami Heat and Dallas Mavericks to get here. The Mavericks were the first to success, winning three straight lotteries to land two of their established building blocks: Isiah Thomas and James Worthy. Dallas had been knocking on the door of the NBA Finals for years before finally getting in this year. Miami on the other hand didn’t see much success for their first four seasons until they landed Michael Jordan in the NBA draft. Jordan turned Miami into a winner overnight, winning two MVPs along the way. Clint Richardson and Sylvester Norris, two bench players who were on the expansion Heat roster in their first season, often talk about how different things are in just eight seasons. Miami began playing in front of an empty arena, and now each game is standing room only because of Jordan. The Heat no doubt are the favorite here, but the Mavericks have scratched and clawed through two seven-game series in a row to finally get here and won’t roll over easily. Sidney Moncrief has had to guard Mo Cheeks, Micheal Ray Richardson. and Magic Johnson, so he’ll be ready for Isiah. There’s also the history between Jordan and Dallas’s James Worthy and Brad Daugherty, all former North Carolina Tar Heels who will now play on basketball’s biggest stage. The duel between Worthy and Jordan could determine the series entirely.

***

Prediction Contest – Only Predict The NBA Finals For Now

Round 1 Results

@AlanSmithee1981: Ewing (5), Trail Blazers (10), King (5), Mavericks (10), Kiki (4), Spirits in 5 (12), Ellis (7), Heat in 4 (12), Jordan (8), Pistons (10), Chambers (5), Jazz in 3 (12), Barkley (6), McHale (9) = 115

@Dubble J: Sonics (10), Ewing (5), Trail Blazers in 3 (12), King (5), Mavericks (10), Isiah (9), Ellis (7), Heat (10), Jordan (8), Pistons (10), Chambers (5), Jazz in 3 (12), Magic (7), Pacers in 4 (12), Woolridge (7) = 129

Round 2 Results

@AlanSmithee1981: Trail Blazers (15), Sampson (16), Mavericks (15), Thomas (25), Heat in 5 (18), Jordan (18), Jazz (15), Barkley (20) = 142 + 115 = 257

@Dubble J: King (11), Mavericks (15), Thomas (25), Heat (15), Jordan (18), Jazz in 6 (18), Robinson (24) = 126 + 129 = 255

Conference Finals Results

@AlanSmithee1981 : Mavericks in 7 (24), Thomas (33), Heat (20), Jordan (35) = 112+257=369

@Dubble J : Mavericks in 7 (24), King (24), Jordan (35) = 83+255=338

Pick the Winning Team (30 Points) and the Amount of Games that Team Wins in (5)

As a bonus, pick a player for each series. You will receive their fantasy points (same system as regular season) (rounded up, then 5x).

Another bonus, pick the Playoff MVP (20 Points)

***

Stats Site​

 

[AlanSmithee1981]

My pick: Heat in 7 (Michael Jordan)
Finals MVP: Michael Jordan

 

[The ScapeDubb]

Mavs in 7
Michael Jordan
MVP: Isiah Thomas

 

[RDT]

NBA Finals

Game 1: #2 Dallas Mavericks vs. #1 Miami Heat

The Miami Heat came out firing in Game 1, while the Dallas Mavericks looked exhausted from their second straight seven game series. Michael Jordan only scored 22, but that led all scorers and the Heat won Game 1 easily. Isiah Thomas put up a dud in Game 1, only managing a 4 point performance on 2/13 shooting with Sidney Moncrief (18-5-5-5) all over him.

We’ll see if Dallas can get things together. If not, this will be a short Finals.

HEAT 112, Mavericks 89 (Heat lead 1-0)

Mavericks Stats
James Worthy: 15 PTS, 6 REB

Heat Stats
Michael Jordan: 22 PTS, 8 REB, 6 AST, 3 STL
Sidney Moncrief: 18 PTS, 5 REB, 5 AST, 5 STL
Robert Parish: 16 PTS, 6 REB, 5 BLK

***

Game 2: #2 Dallas Mavericks vs. #1 Miami Heat (Heat lead 1-0)

Despite an incredible performance from Brad Daugherty the Heat defeated the Mavericks once again to take a 2-0 lead in the NBA Finals. While Isiah Thomas was better than he was in Game 1, he still shot poorly (5/17) and Sidney Moncrief showed to be the best point guard on the floor once again. Moncrief led all scorers with 28 on 13/17 shooting. Daugherty’s 38 point performance ended up being all for naught.

Michael Jordan added 25 and Xavier McDaniel added 26 for Miami. Dallas’ James Worthy had 25. The series now moves to Dallas for 3 straight games. Dallas needs to win two to get back to Miami.

HEAT 135, Mavericks 124 (Heat lead 2-0)

Mavericks Stats
Brad Daugherty: 38 PTS, 9 REB, 5 AST, 17/20 FG
James Worthy: 25 PTS, 11 REB, 4 AST
Isiah Thomas: 17 PTS, 9 REB, 15 AST, 4 STL

Heat Stats
Sidney Moncrief: 28 PTS, 8 REB, 5 STL, 13/17 FG
Xavier McDaniel: 26 PTS, 5 REB, 3 AST
Michael Jordan: 25 PTS, 6 REB, 6 AST, 2 STL, 12/16 FG

***

Game 3: #1 Miami Heat vs. #2 Dallas Mavericks (Heat lead 2-0)

While still struggling from the field (12/31 FG), Isiah Thomas led the Mavericks to a nail-biter victory in Game 3, basically keeping their NBA Championship hopes alive. Isiah scored 30 and helped slow down Sidney Moncrief (6/22 FG). Michael Jordan went off for 38, but it just fell short.

Isiah got help from Jerome Kersey (21 points) and James Worthy (23) points. Dallas had a chance to tie the series in Game 4.

MAVERICKS 124, Heat 121 (Heat lead 2-1)

Heat Stats
Michael Jordan: 38 PTS, 5 REB, 6 AST, 2 STL, 18/27 FG
Xavier McDaniel: 20 PTS, 2 STL, 10/11 FG

Mavericks Stats
Isiah Thomas: 30 PTS, 4 REB, 10 AST, 2 STL
Jerome Kersey: 21 PTS, 8/12 FG
James Worthy: 23 PTS, 7 REB, 2 STL, 2 BLK

***

Game 4: #1 Miami Heat vs. #2 Dallas Mavericks (Heat lead 2-1)

Game 4 was perhaps Michael Jordan’s greatest game. 46 points, 7 rebounds, and 8 assists to give the Heat a 3-1 series lead, putting them one game away from a NBA Championship.

But it was also Sidney Moncrief’s greatest game, while it was Isiah Thomas’ nightmare. Moncrief recorded a triple double: 22 points, 11 assists and 12 steals…with most of those steals coming at the expense of Isiah (10 turnovers). With Isiah shooting horribly in these Finals so far (26/83, about 31.3%) and James Worthy not breaking out, the Mavericks just haven’t been able to keep up with the Heat. They’ll need to figure out something just to get the series to Miami.

Heat 129, MAVERICKS118 (Heat lead 3-1)

Heat Stats
Sidney Moncrief: 22 PTS, 5 REB, 11 AST, 12 STL
Michael Jordan: 46 PTS, 7 REB, 8 AST, 19/26 FG

Mavericks Stats
James Worthy: 24 PTS, 6 REB
Isiah Thomas: 17 PTS, 9 AST, 4 STL, 10 TO

***

Game 5: #1 Miami Heat vs. #2 Dallas Mavericks (Heat lead 3-1)

The Mavericks took a small first quarter lead, but overall it was too little, too late as the Heat dominated the rest of the game to take down the franchise’s first NBA Championship.

Michael Jordan and Sidney Moncrief both scored 30 as Isiah Thomas again shot horribly (8/22 FG) and James Worthy had another solid but not spectacular game (21 points). The Mavericks just had nothing for the Heat all series.

Jordan was named Finals MVP, although Moncrief really had a good case for it.

Heat 108, MAVERICKS94 (Heat win 4-1)

Heat Stats
Sidney Moncrief: 30 PTS, 7 REB, 5 AST, 6 STL
Michael Jordan: 30 PTS, 5 REB, 9 AST, 3 STL

Mavericks Stats
James Worthy: 21 PTS, 4 REB, 5 AST
Isiah Thomas: 23 PTS, 6 REB, 11 AST, 4 STL

***

***

Prediction Contest – Only Predict The NBA Finals For Now

Round 1 Results

@AlanSmithee1981: Ewing (5), Trail Blazers (10), King (5), Mavericks (10), Kiki (4), Spirits in 5 (12), Ellis (7), Heat in 4 (12), Jordan (8), Pistons (10), Chambers (5), Jazz in 3 (12), Barkley (6), McHale (9) = 115

@Dubble J: Sonics (10), Ewing (5), Trail Blazers in 3 (12), King (5), Mavericks (10), Isiah (9), Ellis (7), Heat (10), Jordan (8), Pistons (10), Chambers (5), Jazz in 3 (12), Magic (7), Pacers in 4 (12), Woolridge (7) = 129

Round 2 Results

@AlanSmithee1981: Trail Blazers (15), Sampson (16), Mavericks (15), Thomas (25), Heat in 5 (18), Jordan (18), Jazz (15), Barkley (20) = 142 + 115 = 257

@Dubble J: King (11), Mavericks (15), Thomas (25), Heat (15), Jordan (18), Jazz in 6 (18), Robinson (24) = 126 + 129 = 255

Conference Finals Results

@AlanSmithee1981: Mavericks in 7 (24), Thomas (33), Heat (20), Jordan (35) = 112+257=369

@Dubble J: Mavericks in 7 (24), King (24), Jordan (35) = 83+255=338

Pick the Winning Team (30 Points) and the Amount of Games that Team Wins in (5)

NBA Finals Results

@AlanSmithee1981 : Heat (30), Jordan (25), MVP Jordan (20) = 75+369=444

@Dubble J : Jordan (25) = 25+338=363

Congratulations to @AlanSmithee1981 for winning the 1988 Playoff Prediction Contest! With the 10% bonus, Alan will get 488 points for the playoffs!

Past Prediction Results

@Dubble J : 4,129 Points (7x Champion (2x Season, 5x 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)
1987 Playoffs: 447 (Champion)
1988 Regular Season: 517 (Champion)
1988 Playoffs: 363

@AlanSmithee1981 : 2,670 Points (3x Champion (3x Playoffs): 1984, 1986, 1988 Playoffs)
1983 Playoffs: 215
1984 Playoffs: 394 (Champion)
1985 Playoffs: 381
1986 Playoffs: 484 (Champion)
1987 Regular Season: 372
1987 Playoffs: 389
1988 Regular Season: 336
1988 Playoffs: 488 (Champion)

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

@BattleTank : 411 Points
1986 Regular Season: 411

@Joey Bananas : 55 Points
1981 Playoffs: 55

***

Stats Site​

 

[RDT]

Opening Almanac is updated also with a list of notable games.

There will be a break before 88-89, but we will return!

 

[RDT]

EDIT: Dubb pointed out that I forgot to do an off-season post! Here are some off-season highlights.

Notable Retirements
Bob Lanier, Spurs

Coach Changes
Bullets: Wes Unseld replaces Mike Fratello
Nuggets: Doug Moe replaces Dave Wohl
Cavaliers: Doug Collins replaces Stan Albeck
Bulls: Paul Silas replaces Paul Westhead

Draft
1. Rik Smits, Light, 2. Danny Manning, Lakers (via Magic), 3. Charles Smith, Nuggets, 4. Rex Chapman, Timberwolves, 5. Hersey Hawkins, Spurs, 6. Mitch Richmond, Knicks, 7. Chris Morris, Stallions, 8. Will Perdue, Bucks, 9. Dan Majerle, Pacers, 10. Harvey Grant, Nets, 11. Rony Seikaly, Magic, 12. Gary Grant, Bulls, 13. Rod Strickland, 76ers, 14. Brian Shaw, Celtics
15. Willie Anderson, Pacers, 16. Jeff Grayer, Hawks, 17. Randolph Keys, Sonics, 18. Benji Wilson, Warriors, 19. Tim Perry, Rockets, 20. David Rivers, Pistons, 21. Kevin Edwards, Rockets, 22. Grant Long, Knicks, 23. Andrew Lang, Magic, 24. Ricky Berry, Cavs, 25. Mark Bryant, Mavericks, 26. Vinny Del Negro, Lakers, 27. Tom Tolbert, Heat, 28. Micheal Williams, Kings

Notable Signings (New Team in Italics)

Charles Barkley, Jazz, 7 Years, $25,375,000
Anthony Bowie, Nets, 3 Years, $5,062,500
Sam Bowie, Bullets, 7 Years, $25,375,000
Michael Cage, Trail Blazers, 4 Years, $6,900,000
Tony Campbell, Supersonics, 3 Years, $3,000,000
Mo Cheeks, Sixers, 3 Years, $3,000,000
Julius Erving, Sixers, 1 Year, $238,000
Michael Jordan, Heat, 7 Years, $25,375,000
Jerome Kersey, Nuggets, 2 Years, $3,455,250
Hakeem Olajuwon, Kings, 7 Years, $25,375,000
Sam Perkins, Nets, 5 Years, $11,050,000
Drazen Petrovic, Magic, 3 Years, $1,300,000
Mark Price, Pacers, 5 Years, $13,000,000
Alvin Robertson, Spirits, 7 Years, $25,375,000
Cliff Robinson, T-Wolves, 6 Years, $20,475,000
Dennis Rodman, 76ers, 3 Years, $5,062,500
Jack Sikma, Knicks, 2 Years, $3,000,000
John Stockton, Warriors, 6 Years, $18,750,000
Reggie Theus, Bullets, 5 Years, $11,250,000
Otis Thorpe, Lakers, 3 Years, $5,175,000
Andrew Toney, Kings, 3 Years, $1,800,000
Kevin Willis, Rockets, 2 Years, $3,370,486

***

1988-1989 Season Preview

1988-1989 Team Information

Eastern Conference

Atlantic Division

Baltimore Bullets
1988 Record: 32-50 (5th in Atlantic, Missed Playoffs)
Head Coach: Wes Unseld (1st Year)
Key Players: Sam Bowie (22 PPG, 10.3 RPG, 2.7 APG, 3.1 BPG), Alex English (15.5 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 3.7 APG), Reggie Theus (17.4 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 5.3 APG, 1.5 SPG), Adrian Dantley (22.5 PPG, 6 RPG, 3.1 APG, 1.3 SPG)

Baltimore looks again to win now, adding Reggie Theus to their core of Sam Bowie, Alex English and Adrian Dantley. Bowie has shown promise, making his first All-Star team last season, but the others are aging. Still, they could mean a return to the playoffs, which would be great for legendary player and 1st Year Coach Wes Unseld.

Boston Celtics
1988 Record: 44-38 (2nd in Atlantic, Lost to Jazz in Round 1)
Head Coach: K.C. Jones (8th Year)
Key Players: Larry Bird (25.4 PPG, 10.2 RPG, 7.5 APG, 2.1 SPG, 94% FT, 42% 3P), Larry Nance (20.8 PPG, 9.4 RPG, 2.8 APG, 1.2 SPG, 1.9 BPG, 55.9% FG), Purvis Short (23.3 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 3.3 APG), Joe Barry Carroll (13.7PPG, 7.4 RPG)

For the second straight season, the Celtics were knocked out of the playoffs in Round 1, this time by the Magic Johnson-led Jazz. Boston is front loaded with Larry Bird, Purvis Short, and Larry Nance, but Joe Barry Carroll needs to live up to his talent for Boston to return to contention. Notably, rookie point guard Brian Shaw starts over Gus Williams, a sign of their aging pieces.

Miami Heat
1988 Record: 61-21 (1st in Atlantic, Won NBA Championship)
Head Coach: Chuck Daly (9th Year)
Key Players: Michael Jordan (30.3 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 6.2 APG, 2.7 SPG, 55.4% FG, MVP), Sidney Moncrief (18.3 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 5.2 APG, 3 SPG)

Four years, two MVPs and a NBA Championship. Michael Jordan led the Miami Heat to their first NBA Championship. With the Heat returning the same core, led by MJ and defensive specialist Sidney Moncrief, there’s no reason the Heat can’t repeat in 1989.

New Jersey Nets
1988 Record: 34-48 (4th in the Atlantic, Missed Playoffs)
Head Coach: Jimmy Rodgers (2nd Year)
Key Players: Moses Malone (12.6 PPG, 9.2 RPG, 1.1 BPG), Sam Perkins (20.2 PPG, 8.4 RPG, 1.1 SPG, 1 BPG, 42.2% 3P), Anthony Bowie (15.7 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 1.6 SPG), Derek Harper (13.1 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 5.5 APG, 1.4 SPG), Harvey Grant (#10 Overall Pick)

The Nets continue to rebuild, and this may be the season they are able to get Moses Malone’s contract off the books. Sam Perkins had a huge breakout season last year, and Anthony Bowie is an interesting player from the Spurs.

New York Knicks
1988 Record: 27-55 (6th in Atlantic, Missed Playoffs)
Head Coach: Don Nelson (2nd Year)
Key Players: Jack Sikma (11.7 PPG, 10.2 RPG), Roy Tarpley (12.8 PPG, 10 RPG), Mitch Richmond (#6 Overall Pick)

We’ll see what the young Knicks can do this year. All eyes are on 1st Round Pick Mitch Richmond.

Orlando Magic
1988 Record: 17-65
Head Coach: Jerry Sloan (2nd Year)
Key Players: Drazen Petrovic (14.1 PPG), Kenny Smith (13.2 PPG, 4.1 APG), Michael Adams (11.4 PPG, 5.8 APG)

The second year Magic still have a lot of work to do, but Drazen Petrovic and Kenny Smith both looked like keepers last season.

Philadelphia 76ers
1988 Record: 43-39 (3rd in Atlantic, Lost to Heat in Round 1)
Head Coach: Larry Brown (3rd Year)
Key Players: Len Bias (28 PPG, 10.2 RPG, 5.3 APG, 2.1 SPG, 53% FG), Maurice Cheeks (16.5 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 7.9 APG, 2.5 SPG), Antoine Carr (13.8 PPG, 3.6 RPG), Manute Bol (8.1 RPG, 5.4 BPG)

Dr. J may still be in the lineup, but this is Len Bias’ team now. The Sixers have an interesting blend of veterans and younger players. We’ll see if they can take the next step behind Bias and win a playoff series in 1989.

Eastern Conference

Central Division

Atlanta Hawks
1988 Record: 45-37 (4th In Central, Lost to Pistons in Round 1)
Head Coach: John MacLeod (2nd Year)
Key Players: Bill Laimbeer (15.6 PPG, 9.8 RPG, 1.7 BPG), Karl Malone (21.6 PPG, 9.4 RPG, 3.4 APG, 1.5 SPG, 56.1% FG), Mark Aguirre (20.2 PPG, 5.4 RPG), Fat Lever (12.9 PPG, 9.2 RPG, 10.1 APG, 2.6 SPG)

Atlanta found new life last season after trading for Fat Lever. While it led to a #5 seed in the playoffs, they were easily dispatched by Detroit. Lever aside, the Hawks fortunes rely on the development of Karl Malone, who improved last season.

Chicago Bulls
1987 Record: 39-43 (6th in Central, Missed Playoffs)
Head Coach: Paul Silas (1st Year)
Key Players: Dominique Wilkins (30.2 PPG, 7.9 RPG, 1.8 SPG, 53.4% FG), Terry Cummings (20.1 PPG, 9.7 RPG, 1.1 SPG), Byron Scott (16.8 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 3.8 APG)

The Bulls will go through a regime change with Paul Silas replacing Paul Westphal. The Bulls are very top heavy, and barring a more than usual incredible season from ’Nique, Chicago will likely struggle in 1989.

Cleveland Cavaliers
1988 Record: 53-29 (2nd in Central, Lost to Pacers in Round 1)
Head Coach: Doug Collins (1st Year)
Key Players: Kevin McHale (22.7 PPG, 12.1 RPG, 1.2 SPG, 3.2 BPG), Orlando Woolridge (22.7 PPG, 8 RPG, 1.3 BPG, 55.5% FG), Rolando Blackman (19.4 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 3.6 APG)

A disappointing loss to the Pacers in Round 1 of the 1988 Playoffs led to changes in leadership in Cleveland. The team mostly remains the same. We’ll see if the Cavs can finally break through with their big three in Eastern Conference.

Detroit Pistons
1988 Record: 51-31 (3rd in Central, Lost to Heat in ECSF)
Head Coach: Lenny Wilkens (5th Year)
Key Players: Tom Chambers (28.3 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 1 SPG, 53.9% FG), Benoit Benjamin (8.9 PPG, 9.2 RPG, 3.2 BPG), Michael Cooper (13.1 PPG, 4 RPG, 3.8 APG, 1.5 SPG, 1 BPG), Dennis Johnson (12 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 3.9 APG, 2 SPG), Micheal Ray Richardson (13.6 PPG, 6.8 RPG, 10.5 APG, 1.4 SPG)

Detroit provided a solid title defense in 1988, only falling to the eventual champion Miami Heat. Detroit’s enemy is age, as everyone except scoring machine Tom Chambers is on the wrong side of 30, and Chambers himself is 29.

Indiana Pacers
1988 Record: 45-37 (5th in Central, Lost to Jazz in ECSF)
Head Coach: Bob Hill (3rd Year)
Key Players: David Robinson (26.4 PPG, 13 RPG, 2.6 SPG, 3 BPG, 57.8% FG), James Bailey (13.2 PPG, 8 RPG, 1.4 BPG), Mark Price (15.4 PPG, 7.2 APG, 1.1 SPG), Dan Majerle (#9 Overall Pick)

David Robinson has completely changed the fortunes of the Indiana Pacer franchise, putting together one of the craziest rookie seasons in NBA history. He didn’t do it completely alone either, as Mark Price looked like a young star and was rewarded with a long-term contract. Now it’s time to see if Indiana can be a real threat.

Milwaukee Bucks
1988 Record: 30-52 (7th in Central, Missed Playoffs)
Head Coach: Bernie Bickerstaff (3rd Year)
Key Players: Chuck Person (22.9 PPG, 8.9 RPG), Reggie Williams (14 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 2 SPG), Mike McGee (17 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 2 SPG), Thurl Bailey (13.7 PPG, 8.5 RPG, 2 BPG), Will Perdue (#8 Overall Pick)

Truthfully, the Bucks probably overachieved in 1988. Chuck Person looked like a star, and he’ll need to keep improving for the Bucks to be a playoff threat.

New Orleans Jazz
1988 Record: 56-26 (1st in Central, Lost to Heat in ECF)
Head Coach: Dick Motta (6th Year)
Key Players: Charles Barkley (25.5 PPG, 13.5 RPG, 1.4 SPG, 56% FG), Magic Johnson (22.7 PPG, 7.6 RPG, 12.2 APG, 2.2 SPG, 53.2% FG), Bill Cartwright (15.5 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 1.3 BPG), Detlef Schrempf (17.6 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 55.4% FG, 43.5% 3P)

Pairing Charles Barkley with Magic Johnson turned the city of New Orleans into a basketball city. The addition of Magic made the Jazz a title contender, and there’s no reason they won’t be a threat in 1989.

Western Conference

Midwest Division

Dallas Mavericks
1988 Record: 55-27 (1st in Midwest, Lost to Heat in NBA Finals)
Head Coach: Bill Fitch (4th Year)
Key Players: Isiah Thomas (25 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 11.3 APG, 2.6 SPG), James Worthy (20.6 PPG, 7 RPG, 1.5 SPG), Brad Daugherty (15.9 PPG, 9 RPG)

While pundits are still questioning the trading away of Ralph Sampson for Brad Daugherty, especially after the monster season Sampson had, the Mavericks did make the NBA Finals last year for the first time. The Mavericks may be the favorite in the Western Conference once again, as Isiah Thomas and James Worthy have proven to be one of the best duos of all of basketball.

Denver Nuggets
1988 Record: 22-60 (5th in Midwest, Missed Playoffs)
Head Coach: Doug Moe (1st Year)
Key Players: Chris Washburn (18.5 PPG, 7.1 RPG), Charles Smith (#3 Overall Pick), Ron Harper (17.7 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 4.5 APG, 2.1 SPG), Johnny Dawkins (17.8 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 7.1 APG)

The Nuggets have an interesting collection of talent. If one of Chris Washburn, Johnny Dawkins or Ron Harper has a monster season, Denver may be able to return to the playoffs. We’ll see if Charles Smith can live up to his draft pick selection.

Houston Rockets
1988 Record: 49-33 (3rd in Midwest, Lost to Spirits in Round 1)
Head Coach: Rudy Tomjanovich (2nd Year)
Key Players: Kelly Tripucka (23.5 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 4.9 APG, 1.3 SPG), Kevin Willis (11.9 PPG, 9.4 RPG, 2 BPG, 50.9% FG), Charles Oakley (10.7 PPG, 10 RPG), Reggie Miller (14.9 PPG, 3.4 APG, 49% FG, 88.1% FT, 38.6% 3P), Darrell Griffith (18.7 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 1.7 SPG)

Houston surprised quite a bit with a playoff berth and a near victory over the Spirits. The Rockets have a diverse crew of players, with a front defensive-rebounding combo up front, and some of the most natural scorers in the game.

Minnesota Timberwolves
1988 Record: 20-62 (7th in Midwest, Missed Playoffs)
Head Coach: Don Cheaney (2nd Year)
Key Players: Armen Gilliam (15.8 PPG, 6 RPG), Cliff Robinson (19 PPG, 9.2 RPG, 1.9 SPG, 1.2 BPG), Rex Chapman (#4 Overall Pick), Nate McMillan (8 PPG, 8.6 APG, 1.6 SPG)

While Minnesota should still suffer through some growing pains, they decided to make Cliff Robinson, formerly of the Nets, the first face of their franchise.

Salt Lake Stallions
1988 Record: 30-52 (4th in Midwest, Missed Playoffs)
Head Coach: Bill Musselman (2nd Year)
Key Players: Chris Morris (#7 Overall Pick), Eddie Johnson (21.9 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 1.1 SPG), Mark Jackson (14.1 PPG, 5.4 APG, 1.9 SPG)

With Reggie Theus off to Baltimore, the Stallions are now Eddie Johnson’s team. They’re likely to struggle in 1988.

San Antonio Spurs
1988 Record: 21-61 (6th in Midwest, Missed Playoffs)
Head Coach: Johnny Bach (3rd Year)
Key Players: A.C. Green (14.1 PPG, 8.1 RPG), Hersey Hawkins (#5 Overall Pick)

Iceman career points count: 29,871. Hitting 30,000 will likely be the height of the Spurs season.

Spirits of St. Louis
1988 Record: 53-29 (2nd in Midwest, Lost to Mavericks in WCSF)
Head Coach: Donnie Walsh (6th Year)
Key Players: Buck Williams (20.3 PPG, 10.9 RPG, 1 BPG, 58.7 FG%), Dale Ellis (20.5 PPG, 6.5 RPG, 1.1 SPG), Alvin Robertson (20.5 PPG, 7.4 RPG, 7.8 APG, 2.5 SPG), Mark Eaton (9.6 RPG, 5.2 BPG), Otis Birdsong (17.4 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 4.4 APG, 1.4 SPG)

The Spirits gave the eventual Western Conference Champion Mavericks everything they could handle in the Western Conference Semis before falling in 7 games. The big question was if Alvin Robertson would return to the team, but he did re-sign for seven years. It could be St. Louis’s year.

Western Conference

Pacific Division

Anaheim Light
1988 Record: 22-60 (7th in Pacific, Missed Playoffs)
Head Coach: Mike Schuler (2nd Year)
Key Players: Rik Smits (#1 Overall Pick), Scottie Pippen (12.3 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 1.6 SPG), Joe Dumars (16.6 PPG, 5.2 APG)

22 wins ended up being a 14-game improvement. The Light landed the #1 pick in the draft and picked the 7’4” Dutchman Rik Smits. We’ll see if he’s the next piece to make Anahiem a basketball town.

Golden State Warriors
1988 Record: 48-34 (4th in Pacific, Lost to Mavericks in Round 1)
Head Coach: George Karl (6th Year)
Key Players: Kiki Vandeweghe (29 PPG, 5.6 RPG), John Stockton (17.3 PPG, 11.7 APG, 2.4 SPG), Darryl Dawkins (12.5 PPG, 9.9 RPG), Danny Schayes (11.1 PPG, 10.7 RPG, 1.5 BPG), Dudley Bradley (11.1 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 3.3 APG, 1.7 SPG)

The Warriors took a major step back after their 1987 NBA Title run, losing to Dallas Round 1. Most of the pieces are still there, so we’ll see if Golden State can return to being a title contender…or if the success of the 1987 season is firmly in the past.

Los Angeles Lakers
1988 Record: 39-43 (6th in Pacific, Missed Playoffs)
Head Coach: Rick Pitino (2nd Year)
Key Players: Doc Rivers (18.7 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 7.8 APG, 1.9 SPG), Jeff Malone (17.5 PPG, 4 RPG, 3.8 APG), Otis Thorpe (16.8 PPG, 9.9 RPG, 59.6% FG), Marques Johnson (17.2 PPG, 7.9 RPG), Danny Manning (#2 Overall Pick)

It’s a new age for the Los Angeles Lakers, as Danny Manning joins Doc Rivers and Jeff Malone. The hype is extraordinarily high for Manning, who’s an all-around player that may even remind some people of Magic at times.

Phoenix Suns
1988 Record: 52-30 (3rd in Pacific, Lost to Trail Blazers in Round 1)
Head Coach: Cotton Fitzsimmons (3rd Year)
Key Players: Arvydas Sabonis (27.6 PPG, 14.2 RPG, 5.9 APG, 1.1 BPG, 51% FG, 91.1% FT, 40.8% 3P), Clyde Drexler (23.2 PPG, 7.3 RPG, 4.8 APG, 2 SPG, 49.5% FG), Ricky Pierce (20.9 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 3.2 APG)

Phoenix is an extremely top heavy team. Arvydas Sabonis is one if the most unique players in NBA history. Phoenix will need Clyde Drexler to take one more step forward to superstardom to make them a title favorite. They’re also hoping tiny Muggsy Bogues is able to plug in a hole at point guard.

Portland Trail Blazers
1988 Record: 53-29 (4th in Pacific, Lost to Mavericks in WCF)
Head Coach: Rick Adelman (4rd Year)
Key Players: Bernard King (28.9 PPG, 6.8 RPG, 4.3 APG, 1.3 SPG), Chris Mullin (22 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 3.6 APG, 1.9 SPG), Alton Lister (10 RPG, 2.8 BPG), Michael Cage (11 PPG, 9.5 RPG, 1.1 SPG, 1.1 BPG)

Bernard King turned Portland into a title contender. He and Chris Mullin played a beautiful two-man game on offense while Alton Lister and Michael Cage protected the middle. This might be good enough to go the whole way in 1989.

Sacramento Kings
1988 Record: 61-21 (1st in Pacific, Lost to Sonics in Round 1)
Head Coach: Del Harris (5th Year)
Key Players: Hakeem Olajuwon (25.5 PPG, 12.1 RPG, 1.4 SPG, 3.8 BPG, 56.3% FG), Patrick Ewing (26.1 PPG, 10.6 RPG, 1.1 SPG, 2.4 BPG), Andrew Toney (17.5 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 3.6 APG), Terry Porter (14.9 PPG, 5 RPG, 5.3 APG, 2.3 SPG)

Injuries to Hakeem Olajuwon cost the Kings a playoff run as they were upset in Round 1 by the #8 seed Sonics. With that being said, the Olajuwon-Ewing combo has looked unbeatable at times, and Sacramento has added scorer Andrew Toney to provide offense from the perimeter.

Seattle Supersonics
1988 Record: 46-36 (5th in Pacific, Lost to Trail Blazers in WCSF)
Head Coach: Hubie Brown (5th Year)
Key Players: Ralph Sampson (29.2 PPG, 11.5 RPG, 3.6 BPG), Tony Campbell (18.6 PPG, 6.8 RPG, 1.7 SPG), Calvin Natt (16.9 PPG, 7 RPG, 1.4 SPG), Kevin Johnson (12.7 PPG, 8.4 APG, 1.5 SPG

Years of being in the cellar finally paid off when Seattle traded their assets for Ralph Sampson. Sampson led Seattle to a huge playoff series win over the Kings. Expectations are high in Seattle as they look to win their first NBA title in 10 years.

***

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.

1988 Fantasy Stats

Past Prediction Results

@Dubble J : 4,129 Points (7x Champion (2x Season, 5x 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)
1987 Playoffs: 447 (Champion)
1988 Regular Season: 517 (Champion)
1988 Playoffs: 363

@AlanSmithee1981 : 2,670 Points (3x Champion (3x Playoffs): 1984, 1986, 1988 Playoffs)
1983 Playoffs: 215
1984 Playoffs: 394 (Champion)
1985 Playoffs: 381
1986 Playoffs: 484 (Champion)
1987 Regular Season: 372
1987 Playoffs: 389
1988 Regular Season: 336
1988 Playoffs: 488 (Champion)

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

@BattleTank : 411 Points
1986 Regular Season: 411

@Joey Bananas : 55 Points
1981 Playoffs: 55

***

STATS SITE​

 

[AlanSmithee1981]

My picks: Michael Jordan, Kiki Vandeweghe, David Robinson, Charles Barkley, Len Bias, and Danny Manning...

 

[The ScapeDubb]

David Robinson
Magic Johnson
Michael Jordan
Ralph Sampson
Isiah Thomas
Danny Manning

 

[RDT]

FANTASY STANDINGS

@AlanSmithee1981 - 144.06

Michael Jordan - 26.61
663 Points, 171 Rebounds, 154 Assists, 83 Steals, 21 blocks

Kiki Vandeweghe - 16.3
826 Points, 146 Rebounds, 48 Assists, 24 Steals, 8 Blocks

David Robinson - 33.74
848 Points, 348 Rebounds, 68 Assists, 63 Steals, 93 Blocks

Charles Barkley - 22.67
681 Points, 361 Rebounds, 76 Assists, 38 Steals, 18 Blocks

Len Bias - 26.62
842 Points, 237 Rebounds, 124 Assists, 52 Steals, 33 Blocks

Danny Manning - 18.12
502 Points, 171 Rebounds, 87 Assists, 41 Steals, 21 Blocks
---

@Dubble J - 164.13

David Robinson - 33.74
848 Points, 348 Rebounds, 68 Assists, 63 Steals, 93 Blocks

Magic Johnson - 26.71
575 Points, 189 Rebounds, 287 Assists, 42 Steals, 15 Blocks

Michael Jordan - 26.61
663 Points, 171 Rebounds, 154 Assists, 83 Steals, 21 blocks

Ralph Sampson - 31.41
821 Points, 336 Rebounds, 62 Assists, 32 Steals, 108 Blocks

Isiah Thomas - 27.54
652 Points, 127 Rebounds, 272 Assists, 69 Steals, 7 Blocks

Danny Manning - 18.12
502 Points, 171 Rebounds, 87 Assists, 41 Steals, 21 Blocks

STATS SITE





​

 

[RDT]

FANTASY STANDINGS

@AlanSmithee1981 - 276.44

Michael Jordan - 55.44
1350 Points, 356 Rebounds, 298 Assists, 181 Steals, 48 Blocks

Kiki Vandeweghe - 31.74
1534 Points, 288 Rebounds, 116 Assists, 47 Steals, 13 Blocks

David Robinson - 62.4
1498 Points, 621 Rebounds, 100 Assists, 129 Steals, 181 Blocks

Charles Barkley - 42.58
1278 Points, 642 Rebounds, 149 Assists, 75 Steals, 35 Blocks

Len Bias - 48.56
1502 Points, 443 Rebounds, 227 Assists, 97 Steals, 59 Blocks

Danny Manning - 35.72
982 Points, 353 Rebounds, 166 Assists, 81 Steals, 41 Blocks
---

@Dubble J - 307.9

David Robinson - 62.4
1498 Points, 621 Rebounds, 100 Assists, 129 Steals, 181 Blocks

Magic Johnson - 48.96
1060 Points, 362 Rebounds, 513 Assists, 85 Steals, 21 Blocks

Michael Jordan - 55.44
1350 Points, 356 Rebounds, 298 Assists, 181 Steals, 48 Blocks

Ralph Sampson - 53.94
1478 Points, 583 Rebounds, 135 Assists, 52 Steals, 169 Blocks

Isiah Thomas - 51.44
1190 Points, 227 Rebounds, 515 Assists, 134 Steals, 10 Blocks

Danny Manning - 35.72
982 Points, 353 Rebounds, 166 Assists, 81 Steals, 41 Blocks

STATS SITE​

 

[RDT]

FANTASY STANDINGS
1989 Fantasy Stats

@AlanSmithee1981 - 436.93

Michael Jordan - 71.37
1785 Points, 462 Rebounds, 392 Assists, 230 Steals, 56 Blocks

Kiki Vandeweghe - 49.71
2451 Points, 441 Rebounds, 202 Assists, 63 Steals, 20 Blocks

David Robinson - 105.56
2504 Points, 1051 Rebounds, 195 Assists, 214 Steals, 303 Blocks

Charles Barkley - 71.39
2133 Points, 1140 Rebounds, 249 Assists, 117 Steals, 56 Blocks

Len Bias - 80.92
2364 Points, 727 Rebounds, 391 Assists, 180 Steals, 91 Blocks

Danny Manning - 57.98
1544 Points, 590 Rebounds, 301 Assists, 127 Steals, 60 Blocks

---

@Dubble J - 498.15

David Robinson - 105.56
2504 Points, 1051 Rebounds, 195 Assists, 214 Steals, 303 Blocks

Magic Johnson - 85.30
1936 Points, 597 Rebounds, 900 Assists, 150 Steals, 30 Blocks

Michael Jordan - 71.37
1785 Points, 462 Rebounds, 392 Assists, 230 Steals, 56 Blocks

Ralph Sampson - 91.00
2380 Points, 961 Rebounds, 242 Assists, 105 Steals, 278 Blocks

Isiah Thomas - 86.94
1976 Points, 394 Rebounds, 870 Assists, 226 Steals, 19 Blocks

Danny Manning - 57.98
1544 Points, 590 Rebounds, 301 Assists, 127 Steals, 60 Blocks

Congratulations to @Dubble J on winning the 1989 Regular Season Championship! He scores 549 with the bonus.

@Dubble J : 4,678 Points (9x Champion (4x Season, 5x Playoffs): 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989 Season, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1985, 1987 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)
1987 Playoffs: 447 (Champion)
1988 Regular Season: 517 (Champion)
1988 Playoffs: 363
1989 Regular Season: 549 (Champion)

@AlanSmithee1981 : 3,107 Points (3x Champion (3x Playoffs): 1984, 1986, 1988 Playoffs)
1983 Playoffs: 215
1984 Playoffs: 394 (Champion)
1985 Playoffs: 381
1986 Playoffs: 484 (Champion)
1987 Regular Season: 372
1987 Playoffs: 389
1988 Regular Season: 336
1988 Playoffs: 488 (Champion)
1989 Regular Season: 437

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

@BattleTank : 411 Points
1986 Regular Season: 411

@Joey Bananas : 55 Points
1981 Playoffs: 55

STATS SITE​

 

[RDT]

Prediction Contest – Only Predict Round 1 For Now

Pick the Winning Team (10 Points) and the Amount of Games that Team Wins in (2)

As a bonus, pick a player for each series. You will receive their fantasy points (same system as regular season).

Past Prediction Results

@Dubble J : 4,678 Points (9x Champion (4x Season, 5x Playoffs): 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989 Season, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1985, 1987 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)
1987 Playoffs: 447 (Champion)
1988 Regular Season: 517 (Champion)
1988 Playoffs: 363
1989 Regular Season: 549 (Champion)

@AlanSmithee1981 : 3,107 Points (3x Champion (3x Playoffs): 1984, 1986, 1988 Playoffs)
1983 Playoffs: 215
1984 Playoffs: 394 (Champion)
1985 Playoffs: 381
1986 Playoffs: 484 (Champion)
1987 Regular Season: 372
1987 Playoffs: 389
1988 Regular Season: 336
1988 Playoffs: 488 (Champion)
1989 Regular Season: 437

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

@BattleTank : 411 Points
1986 Regular Season: 411

@Joey Bananas : 55 Points
1981 Playoffs: 55

STATS SITE​

 

[AlanSmithee1981]

My picks: Suns in 5 (Clyde Drexler), Supersonics in 7 (Ralph Sampson), Mavericks in 6 (Isiah Thomas), Kings in 5 (Patrick Ewing), Jazz in 5 (Charles Barkley), Cavaliers in 6 (Kevin McHale), 76ers in 5 (Len Bias), and Heat in 5 (Michael Jordan)...

 

[The ScapeDubb]

Suns in 3 (Sabonis)
Spirits in 5 (Alvin Robertson)
Mavs in 4 (Isiah Thomas)
Kings in 5 (Hakeem Olajuwon)

Jazz in 3 (Magic Johnson)
Pacers in 4 (David Robinson)
Celtics in 5 (Larry Bird)
Heat in 4 (Michael Jordan)

 

[RDT]

Playoff Prediction Standings

@AlanSmithee1981

Round 1: Suns (10), Five (0), Drexler (5), Sonics (10), Seven (0), Sampson (5), Mavericks (10), Six (0), Isiah (6), Kings (10), Five (0), Ewing (4), Jazz (10), Five (0), Barkley (4), Cavs (0), Six (0), McHale (4), Sixers (10), Five (0), Bias (4), Heat (10), Five (0), Jordan (4) = 106

@Dubble J

Round 1: Suns (10), Three (0), Sabonis (4), Spirits (0), Five (0), Robertson (4), Mavericks (10), Four (0), Isiah (6), Kings (10), Five (0), Hakeem (4), Jazz (10), Three (0), Magic (4), Pacers (10), Four (2), Robinson (5), Celtics (0), Five (0), Bird (3), Heat (10), Four (0), Jordan (4) = 96

SEMI-FINALS Predictions

Pick the Winning Team (20 Points) and the Amount of Games that Team Wins in (4)

As a bonus, pick a player for each series. You will receive their fantasy points (same system as regular season). (Rounded up, then 2x)​