Detroit Pistons
Turned down contract offer early last season during feud with GM Jack McCloskey, then signed two-year agreement after team was eliminated from playoffs... Will get about $200,000 per season... Still has plenty of cash left over from his settlement after he was fired during first year of contract with Ted Stepien's Cavaliers... Wanted to return to Philadelphia as head coach, but Pistons wouldn't let him... "Daddy Rich" is among best dressers as coach... Also does color work for several TV outlets... Born July 20, 1930, in St. Mary's Pa.... Was given much credit for helping Billy Cunningham make transition from playing to coaching 76ers while an assistant... Graduated from Bloomsburg St. (Pa.) College, where he averaged 13.1 ppg over two seasons... Had eight-year collegiate coaching record of 151-62... Didn't get his first head-coaching job in pros until age 51... Has 150-137 regular-season record after a 46-36 finish in 1985-86.
Wednesday, August 31, 2005
Tuesday, August 30, 2005
Earl Cureton
Detroit Pistons
6-9 215 Forward-Center
Outstanding in exhibition games during the summer of '85, leading some to believe he was about to blossom last season... He didn't... Since he played the most he ever did, his rebounding total was a career high, but he wasn't consistent enough to make the Pistons stronger off the boards... Still thinks he's better than he is... Will make $235,000 on the last season of his contract... Born Sept. 3, 1957, in Detroit... Was 58th player chosen in 1979, going to the 76ers out of the University of Detroit... Journeyman player who is capable of decent part-time production... Able to help a team if it doesn't need to rely on him heavily.
Relevant Stats:
8.6 ppg, 50.5 FG%, 6.3 rpg
6-9 215 Forward-Center
Outstanding in exhibition games during the summer of '85, leading some to believe he was about to blossom last season... He didn't... Since he played the most he ever did, his rebounding total was a career high, but he wasn't consistent enough to make the Pistons stronger off the boards... Still thinks he's better than he is... Will make $235,000 on the last season of his contract... Born Sept. 3, 1957, in Detroit... Was 58th player chosen in 1979, going to the 76ers out of the University of Detroit... Journeyman player who is capable of decent part-time production... Able to help a team if it doesn't need to rely on him heavily.
Relevant Stats:
8.6 ppg, 50.5 FG%, 6.3 rpg
Monday, August 29, 2005
Chuck Nevitt
Detroit Pistons
7-5 225 Center
Signed as free agent past the midway point of last season and stayed around, but didn't do much to earn his keep... Born June 13, 1959, in Cortex, Col.... Was raised in Marietta, Ga.... His tallest-player-in-the-league status was forfeited to 7-7 Manute Bol of the Bullets last season... Still hasn't grown into his body... One wonders why teams keep trying to make a player out of him... It's true that you can't coach height, but you can't coach coordination, either... A swell guy, but there have to be a hundred players more deserving of an NBA chance... No. 63 pick overall by Houston in 1982... Was a bench-sitter at North Carolina State and is a bench-sitter in the pros... Made approximately $120,000 last season.
Relevant Stats:
1.7 ppg, 34.9 FG%, 1.1 rpg
7-5 225 Center
Signed as free agent past the midway point of last season and stayed around, but didn't do much to earn his keep... Born June 13, 1959, in Cortex, Col.... Was raised in Marietta, Ga.... His tallest-player-in-the-league status was forfeited to 7-7 Manute Bol of the Bullets last season... Still hasn't grown into his body... One wonders why teams keep trying to make a player out of him... It's true that you can't coach height, but you can't coach coordination, either... A swell guy, but there have to be a hundred players more deserving of an NBA chance... No. 63 pick overall by Houston in 1982... Was a bench-sitter at North Carolina State and is a bench-sitter in the pros... Made approximately $120,000 last season.
Relevant Stats:
1.7 ppg, 34.9 FG%, 1.1 rpg
Sunday, August 28, 2005
Tony Campbell
Detroit Pistons
6-7 210 Forward
Showed some of the ability that prompted Pistons to draft him 20th overall in 1984, out of Ohio State... Had high game of 20 points last season... Figures to develop into good shooter if given more playing time... Born May 7, 1962, in Teaneck, N.J.... Gets $165,000 this season, the last on his contract... Lack of size continues to hurt him, because it means he can't play in the power slot... Plays behind Kelly Tripucka at small forward and can't handle the ball well enough to become a big guard... Might do better elsewhere, where he'd get a chance to prove whether he can play.
Relevant Stats:
7.9 ppg, 48.4 FG%, 2.87 rpg
6-7 210 Forward
Showed some of the ability that prompted Pistons to draft him 20th overall in 1984, out of Ohio State... Had high game of 20 points last season... Figures to develop into good shooter if given more playing time... Born May 7, 1962, in Teaneck, N.J.... Gets $165,000 this season, the last on his contract... Lack of size continues to hurt him, because it means he can't play in the power slot... Plays behind Kelly Tripucka at small forward and can't handle the ball well enough to become a big guard... Might do better elsewhere, where he'd get a chance to prove whether he can play.
Relevant Stats:
7.9 ppg, 48.4 FG%, 2.87 rpg
Saturday, August 27, 2005
Rick Mahorn
Detroit Pistons
6-10 250 Center-Forward
Second straight failure for the Pistons in search for power forward... Acquired from Bullets for first failure, Dan Roundfield, and Mike Gibson prior to last season, he began 1985-86 as starter but lasted only 12 games in that capacity... Enforcer of the first degree... Pistons wanted him to hit the boards as well as opponents, but he averaged only 5.2 rpg... Prince off the court and the devil personified on it, where he asks no quarter and gives none... Somewhere along the line he lost what seems to be a decent shooting touch... Needs to put his mind to rebounding more if he is to stay around the NBA... Will make $506,000 this season... Bullets made him 35th pick overall, out of Hampton Institute in 1980... Was a better football player prospect than a basketball prospect in high school... Born Sept. 21, 1958, in Hartford, Conn.
Relevant Stats:
4.9 ppg, 5.2 rpg, 45.5 FG%
6-10 250 Center-Forward
Second straight failure for the Pistons in search for power forward... Acquired from Bullets for first failure, Dan Roundfield, and Mike Gibson prior to last season, he began 1985-86 as starter but lasted only 12 games in that capacity... Enforcer of the first degree... Pistons wanted him to hit the boards as well as opponents, but he averaged only 5.2 rpg... Prince off the court and the devil personified on it, where he asks no quarter and gives none... Somewhere along the line he lost what seems to be a decent shooting touch... Needs to put his mind to rebounding more if he is to stay around the NBA... Will make $506,000 this season... Bullets made him 35th pick overall, out of Hampton Institute in 1980... Was a better football player prospect than a basketball prospect in high school... Born Sept. 21, 1958, in Hartford, Conn.
Relevant Stats:
4.9 ppg, 5.2 rpg, 45.5 FG%
Friday, August 26, 2005
Vinnie Johnson
Detroit Pistons
6-2 200 Guard
Maybe he read his own press clippings from 1984-86 playoffs... Launched too many long-range rockets, whether or not he had the hot hand... Was tried as a starter for a dozen games, but didn't the part... Best suited for reserve duty, because his streak-shooting ability still confounds opponents, but he has to get his game back under control... Gets a dollar raise to $491,667 this season... Born Sept. 1, 1956, in Brooklyn, N.Y.... Drafted No. 7 by Seattle in 1979... Average of 13.9 ppg was second best of career... Among the strongest of guards, he can't be moved by opponents, but he can be posted up... Baylor product is one of eight children... Needs to pull the reins on his game... Acquired from Sonics for Greg Kelser in November 1981,
Relevant Stats:
13.9 ppg, 46.7 FG%, 3.79 apg
Additional Info: Vinnie's the older brother of former Spurs player and current Dallas Mavericks coach Avery Johnson.
6-2 200 Guard
Maybe he read his own press clippings from 1984-86 playoffs... Launched too many long-range rockets, whether or not he had the hot hand... Was tried as a starter for a dozen games, but didn't the part... Best suited for reserve duty, because his streak-shooting ability still confounds opponents, but he has to get his game back under control... Gets a dollar raise to $491,667 this season... Born Sept. 1, 1956, in Brooklyn, N.Y.... Drafted No. 7 by Seattle in 1979... Average of 13.9 ppg was second best of career... Among the strongest of guards, he can't be moved by opponents, but he can be posted up... Baylor product is one of eight children... Needs to pull the reins on his game... Acquired from Sonics for Greg Kelser in November 1981,
Relevant Stats:
13.9 ppg, 46.7 FG%, 3.79 apg
Additional Info: Vinnie's the older brother of former Spurs player and current Dallas Mavericks coach Avery Johnson.
Wednesday, August 24, 2005
Joe Dumars
Detroit Pistons
6-2 190 Guard
"He's legit," said Chuck Daly, and no one can doubt that after this guy's performance last season... Started 45 games and amassed 390 assists, which cut into Isiah Thomas' total... Good shooter who handles pressure well... Drafted 18th overall by Pistons in 1985... Born May5, 1963, in Shreveport, La.... Brother David plays for USFL Birmingham Stallions... Gives Pistons insurance should Thomas go down, but also presents problems for them since he's not much bigger than Isiah, making Detroit backcourt vulnerable to post-up moves by bigger opponents... Good free-throw shooter who seems to know what should be done and when... As he matures, he should develop into an outstanding pro and prove to be one of the steals in last year's draft... Pistons will pay him only $120,000 this season.
Relevant Stats:
9.4 ppg, 48.1 FG%, 4.76 apg
6-2 190 Guard
"He's legit," said Chuck Daly, and no one can doubt that after this guy's performance last season... Started 45 games and amassed 390 assists, which cut into Isiah Thomas' total... Good shooter who handles pressure well... Drafted 18th overall by Pistons in 1985... Born May5, 1963, in Shreveport, La.... Brother David plays for USFL Birmingham Stallions... Gives Pistons insurance should Thomas go down, but also presents problems for them since he's not much bigger than Isiah, making Detroit backcourt vulnerable to post-up moves by bigger opponents... Good free-throw shooter who seems to know what should be done and when... As he matures, he should develop into an outstanding pro and prove to be one of the steals in last year's draft... Pistons will pay him only $120,000 this season.
Relevant Stats:
9.4 ppg, 48.1 FG%, 4.76 apg
Tuesday, August 23, 2005
John Long
Detroit Pistons
6-5 200 Guard
Continued his fall from favor, losing his starting spot to Joe Dumars... Did sign a new contract that paid him $350,000 after some long-term bickering... Born Aug. 28, 1956, in Romulus, Mich.... Attended University of Detroit... Pistons made him 29th player chosen in 1978... Played for Dick Vitale, who was his college coach before moving to the Pistons... Broke Dave DeBusschere's scoring record at Detroit... One of the game's better free-throw shooters... Maddeningly accurate set shot can torture opponents, but he seems to lack the mobility to succeed in Pistons' fast-break approach... Didn't get much of a chance to wipe out image as poor pressure player.
Relevant Stats:
10.0 ppg, 48.2 FG%, 85.6 FT%
6-5 200 Guard
Continued his fall from favor, losing his starting spot to Joe Dumars... Did sign a new contract that paid him $350,000 after some long-term bickering... Born Aug. 28, 1956, in Romulus, Mich.... Attended University of Detroit... Pistons made him 29th player chosen in 1978... Played for Dick Vitale, who was his college coach before moving to the Pistons... Broke Dave DeBusschere's scoring record at Detroit... One of the game's better free-throw shooters... Maddeningly accurate set shot can torture opponents, but he seems to lack the mobility to succeed in Pistons' fast-break approach... Didn't get much of a chance to wipe out image as poor pressure player.
Relevant Stats:
10.0 ppg, 48.2 FG%, 85.6 FT%
Monday, August 22, 2005
Kelly Tripucka
Detroit Pistons
6-6 215 Forward
Averaged 20 or more ppg for fourth time in five pro seasons... Last year was his first injury free campaign since he was a rookie in 1981-82... Pistons drafted him 12th overall in 1980 out of Notre Dame... Will earn $900,000 again this season... Born Feb. 16, 1959, in Bloomingfield, N.J.... Son of former Notre Dame quarterback Frank... Still called selfish because his defense isn't great and he's not exactly a tenacious rebounder... But he puts fannies in the seats, scores well and is a great free-throw shooter... For a guy who supposedly doesn't jump worth a darn, he was an awfully good high jumper in high school, where his best was 6-6... Also threw the javelin 211 feet.
Relevant Stats:
20.0 ppg, 49.8 FG%, 85.6 FT%
6-6 215 Forward
Averaged 20 or more ppg for fourth time in five pro seasons... Last year was his first injury free campaign since he was a rookie in 1981-82... Pistons drafted him 12th overall in 1980 out of Notre Dame... Will earn $900,000 again this season... Born Feb. 16, 1959, in Bloomingfield, N.J.... Son of former Notre Dame quarterback Frank... Still called selfish because his defense isn't great and he's not exactly a tenacious rebounder... But he puts fannies in the seats, scores well and is a great free-throw shooter... For a guy who supposedly doesn't jump worth a darn, he was an awfully good high jumper in high school, where his best was 6-6... Also threw the javelin 211 feet.
Relevant Stats:
20.0 ppg, 49.8 FG%, 85.6 FT%
Sunday, August 21, 2005
Bill Laimbeer
Detroit Pistons
6-11 250 Center
Battled for rebounding crown all season and thought he had it locked up when his season ended the day before Charles Barkley's did... Barkley needed a bundle of rebounds to pass him and, on last day of season, Laimbeer received call from Pistons' PR man telling him that the 76ers-Bullets game had gone three OTs and Barkley had edged him... Sank into instant depression... When he was told it was just a joke, he didn't laugh... Opponents don't laugh when they play him, either... The next time his feet leave the floor will be the first time, but he knows all about positioning, so he won rebounding title with 13.1 average... Still has no inside game on offense, but no one has found a way to stop his 18-foot jumpers from falling with incredible regularity... One of league's least-popular players because of his penchant for acting his way into drawing offensive fouls... All-around ability can't be questioned... will earn $630,000 this season... Drafted No. 65 overall by Cavs in 1979, out of Notre Dame... Played one season in Italy... Born May 19, 1957, in Boston... Acquired from Cleveland with Kenny Carr for Phil Hubbard, Paul Mokeski and two second-round picks in February 1982.
Relevant Stats:
16.6 ppg, 49.2 FG%, 13.1 rpg
6-11 250 Center
Battled for rebounding crown all season and thought he had it locked up when his season ended the day before Charles Barkley's did... Barkley needed a bundle of rebounds to pass him and, on last day of season, Laimbeer received call from Pistons' PR man telling him that the 76ers-Bullets game had gone three OTs and Barkley had edged him... Sank into instant depression... When he was told it was just a joke, he didn't laugh... Opponents don't laugh when they play him, either... The next time his feet leave the floor will be the first time, but he knows all about positioning, so he won rebounding title with 13.1 average... Still has no inside game on offense, but no one has found a way to stop his 18-foot jumpers from falling with incredible regularity... One of league's least-popular players because of his penchant for acting his way into drawing offensive fouls... All-around ability can't be questioned... will earn $630,000 this season... Drafted No. 65 overall by Cavs in 1979, out of Notre Dame... Played one season in Italy... Born May 19, 1957, in Boston... Acquired from Cleveland with Kenny Carr for Phil Hubbard, Paul Mokeski and two second-round picks in February 1982.
Relevant Stats:
16.6 ppg, 49.2 FG%, 13.1 rpg
Saturday, August 20, 2005
Kent Benson
Detroit Pistons
6-10 245 Center-Forward
A mediocre talent and that's all he'll ever be... Started 51 of 72 games at forward after Chuck Daly decided that Rick Mahorn couldn't handle first-team duties... Field-goal shooting fell below his career norm, but he did rebound a bit better then in 1984-85... Still a defensive liability whose only real worth is offense... If his shooting is off, he should be given a seat on the bench... Pistons need him to rebound more, but it's obvious that he'll never do that... Drafted No. 1 overall by Bucks in 1977, out of Indiana... Born Dec. 27, 1954, in New Castle, Ind.... Begins last season on contract which will pay him $350,000 this time around... Acquired by Pistons from Bucks with first-round pick for Bob Lanier in February 1980.
Relevant Stats:
6.5 ppg, 48.4 FG%, 5.22 rpg
6-10 245 Center-Forward
A mediocre talent and that's all he'll ever be... Started 51 of 72 games at forward after Chuck Daly decided that Rick Mahorn couldn't handle first-team duties... Field-goal shooting fell below his career norm, but he did rebound a bit better then in 1984-85... Still a defensive liability whose only real worth is offense... If his shooting is off, he should be given a seat on the bench... Pistons need him to rebound more, but it's obvious that he'll never do that... Drafted No. 1 overall by Bucks in 1977, out of Indiana... Born Dec. 27, 1954, in New Castle, Ind.... Begins last season on contract which will pay him $350,000 this time around... Acquired by Pistons from Bucks with first-round pick for Bob Lanier in February 1980.
Relevant Stats:
6.5 ppg, 48.4 FG%, 5.22 rpg
Friday, August 19, 2005
Isiah Thomas
Detroit Pistons
6-1 180 Guard
Developed internal bleeding problem during playoffs, making observers wonder if his health is deteriorating... Illness didn't affect his performance in postseason as he tried to do what he always tries to do when his team is struggling -- to much... Shot too much against Hawks, allowing his passing game to suffer... Assist total fell from NBA-record 1,123 in 1984-85 to 830, but his shooting improved from .458 to .488... Underwent postseason surgery on thumb... Management was willing to deal him to a quality center... Coach Chuck Daly wanted none of that talk... Fourth year on 12-season deal will pay him $750,000... Born April 30, 1961, in Chicago... Youngest of nine children was married last summer... Drafted No. 2 overall by Pistons in 1982, after he left Indiana with a year of eligibility remaining... Won second All-star game MVP award last season.
Relevant Stats:
20.9 ppg, 48.8 FG%, 10.8 apg, 2.22 spg
6-1 180 Guard
Developed internal bleeding problem during playoffs, making observers wonder if his health is deteriorating... Illness didn't affect his performance in postseason as he tried to do what he always tries to do when his team is struggling -- to much... Shot too much against Hawks, allowing his passing game to suffer... Assist total fell from NBA-record 1,123 in 1984-85 to 830, but his shooting improved from .458 to .488... Underwent postseason surgery on thumb... Management was willing to deal him to a quality center... Coach Chuck Daly wanted none of that talk... Fourth year on 12-season deal will pay him $750,000... Born April 30, 1961, in Chicago... Youngest of nine children was married last summer... Drafted No. 2 overall by Pistons in 1982, after he left Indiana with a year of eligibility remaining... Won second All-star game MVP award last season.
Relevant Stats:
20.9 ppg, 48.8 FG%, 10.8 apg, 2.22 spg
Thursday, August 18, 2005
Coach Lenny Wilkens
Cleveland Cavaliers
Named as George Karl's replacement in early July... Served one year as Seattle Supersonics' VP-GM after 11 seasons as their head coach... Became increasingly aloof from players... Some feel his hiring in Cleveland is another example of the recycling syndrome, whereby teams are afraid to give younger men with fresher ideas a chance, turning instead to veterans who may have become stultified... Born Oct. 28 1937, in Brooklyn, NY... Nine-time All-star as a player after outstanding career at Providence College... Wilkens played eight seasons with the St. Louis Hawks and two each with the Portland Trail Blazers and the Cavaliers... Responsible for trading Dennis Johnson to the Phoenix Suns after labelling him "a cancer"... One of only nine men to have coached 1,000 NBA games (1,044), he has a 553-491 record and coached Seattle to the 1978-79 NBA title... Needs five wins to pass Al Attles of Golden State Warriors as seventh most successful coach ever.
Named as George Karl's replacement in early July... Served one year as Seattle Supersonics' VP-GM after 11 seasons as their head coach... Became increasingly aloof from players... Some feel his hiring in Cleveland is another example of the recycling syndrome, whereby teams are afraid to give younger men with fresher ideas a chance, turning instead to veterans who may have become stultified... Born Oct. 28 1937, in Brooklyn, NY... Nine-time All-star as a player after outstanding career at Providence College... Wilkens played eight seasons with the St. Louis Hawks and two each with the Portland Trail Blazers and the Cavaliers... Responsible for trading Dennis Johnson to the Phoenix Suns after labelling him "a cancer"... One of only nine men to have coached 1,000 NBA games (1,044), he has a 553-491 record and coached Seattle to the 1978-79 NBA title... Needs five wins to pass Al Attles of Golden State Warriors as seventh most successful coach ever.
Wednesday, August 17, 2005
Dirk Minniefield
Cleveland Cavaliers
6-3 180 Guard
Mavs drafted him No. 33 overall in 1983, out of Kentucky, Nets secured his draft rights and signed him, then cut this father of four prior to 1983-84 season... Played two season in CBA before landing roster spot with Cavs... Played 76 games and started two... Had game high of 20 points... Born Jan. 17, 1961, in Lexington, Ky.... Kentucky's Mr. Basketball in 1979... Co-MVP for Wildcats in each of his last three collegiate seasons... Will bounce around the league for a few years because of reasonable skills as a passer and scorer... Earned $75,000 last season.
Relevant Stats:
5.5 ppg, 48.1 FG%, 3.53 apg
6-3 180 Guard
Mavs drafted him No. 33 overall in 1983, out of Kentucky, Nets secured his draft rights and signed him, then cut this father of four prior to 1983-84 season... Played two season in CBA before landing roster spot with Cavs... Played 76 games and started two... Had game high of 20 points... Born Jan. 17, 1961, in Lexington, Ky.... Kentucky's Mr. Basketball in 1979... Co-MVP for Wildcats in each of his last three collegiate seasons... Will bounce around the league for a few years because of reasonable skills as a passer and scorer... Earned $75,000 last season.
Relevant Stats:
5.5 ppg, 48.1 FG%, 3.53 apg
Tuesday, August 16, 2005
Eddie Johnson
Cleveland Cavaliers
6-2 185 Guard
Obtained from Hawks for Johnny Davis during last season... Used primarily as reserve, he averaged approximately 20 minutes per game... Career on wane... Shooting from field (.457) and free-throw line (.723) plus scoring output (10 ppg) last season were all well below career norms... Brought even more chaos to an already wild backcourt corps of World B. Free and John Bagley... Has manic-depressive problem under control, but can't control passage of time, which is robbing him of his quickness and shooting ability... Scored 20 points in 1980 All-Star game... Born Feb. 24 1955, in Ocala, Fla.... Chosen No. 49 overall by Hawks in 1977... Was teammate of Spurs' Mike Mitchell in Auburn... Brother of Bullets' Frank Johnson.
Relevant Stats:
10.0 ppg, 45.7 FG%, 4.7 apg
6-2 185 Guard
Obtained from Hawks for Johnny Davis during last season... Used primarily as reserve, he averaged approximately 20 minutes per game... Career on wane... Shooting from field (.457) and free-throw line (.723) plus scoring output (10 ppg) last season were all well below career norms... Brought even more chaos to an already wild backcourt corps of World B. Free and John Bagley... Has manic-depressive problem under control, but can't control passage of time, which is robbing him of his quickness and shooting ability... Scored 20 points in 1980 All-Star game... Born Feb. 24 1955, in Ocala, Fla.... Chosen No. 49 overall by Hawks in 1977... Was teammate of Spurs' Mike Mitchell in Auburn... Brother of Bullets' Frank Johnson.
Relevant Stats:
10.0 ppg, 45.7 FG%, 4.7 apg
Monday, August 15, 2005
Mark West
Cleveland Cavaliers
6-10 225 Center
Just sort of hangs around, not doing much except taking up space on the bench or, less frequently, the floor... Improved career free-throw accuracy, but still shot only .524 from line... Started 26 games and averaged only 17.5 minutes... Could fall by wayside this season, after making $150,000 in 1985-86... Mavericks picked him No. 30 overall in 1983, out of Old Dominion... Born Nov. 5, 1960, in Ft. Campbell, Ky.... Grew up in Petersburg, Va., Moses Malones's original stomping grounds... Size and strength could keep him in league, but he'll have to score more than 4.2 ppg.
Relevant Stats:
4.2 ppg, 54.1 FG%, 4.8 rpg
6-10 225 Center
Just sort of hangs around, not doing much except taking up space on the bench or, less frequently, the floor... Improved career free-throw accuracy, but still shot only .524 from line... Started 26 games and averaged only 17.5 minutes... Could fall by wayside this season, after making $150,000 in 1985-86... Mavericks picked him No. 30 overall in 1983, out of Old Dominion... Born Nov. 5, 1960, in Ft. Campbell, Ky.... Grew up in Petersburg, Va., Moses Malones's original stomping grounds... Size and strength could keep him in league, but he'll have to score more than 4.2 ppg.
Relevant Stats:
4.2 ppg, 54.1 FG%, 4.8 rpg
Sunday, August 14, 2005
Edgar Jones
Cleveland Cavaliers
6-10 225 Forward
"EJ," the DJ, the incredible talking machine... He'll score on you, then talk you down and on his face there's never a frown... Decided the best way to get a reputation after spending five mediocre seasons in the NBA was to become his own PR man, a la World B. Free... So he issued outlandish, sometimes unfathomable quotes and had the time of his life... Had he not missed 29 games with injuries, his output would have been better... Never as confident as he was last season... Born June 17, 1956, in Ft. Rucker, Ala.... Grew up in Newark, N.J.... Bucks drafted him No. 31 overall in 1979, out of Nevada-Reno... Cavs got him from Spurs for Jeff Cook in December 1984... Scored a point every 1.97 minutes... Earned $235,000 last season.
Relevant Stats:
9.7 ppg, 50.6 FG%, 3.9 rpg
6-10 225 Forward
"EJ," the DJ, the incredible talking machine... He'll score on you, then talk you down and on his face there's never a frown... Decided the best way to get a reputation after spending five mediocre seasons in the NBA was to become his own PR man, a la World B. Free... So he issued outlandish, sometimes unfathomable quotes and had the time of his life... Had he not missed 29 games with injuries, his output would have been better... Never as confident as he was last season... Born June 17, 1956, in Ft. Rucker, Ala.... Grew up in Newark, N.J.... Bucks drafted him No. 31 overall in 1979, out of Nevada-Reno... Cavs got him from Spurs for Jeff Cook in December 1984... Scored a point every 1.97 minutes... Earned $235,000 last season.
Relevant Stats:
9.7 ppg, 50.6 FG%, 3.9 rpg
Saturday, August 13, 2005
John Bagley
Cleveland Cavaliers
6-0 185 Guard
His scoring was up and accuracy was down in rollercoaster year... Averaged 9.4 assists, ranking fourth in league... Made 70-foot shot against Nets to spark victory for Cavs... Earned $300,000 on contract he won before last season after becoming free agent... Observers no longer ridicule his selection as No. 12 overall in 1982... Born April 30, 1960, in Bridgeport Conn.... Most onlookers felt he made big mistake by leaving Boston College and entering draft after junior season... Scores in streaks... His lack of height works against him.
Relevant Stats:
11.7 ppg, 42.3 FG%, 9.4 apg
6-0 185 Guard
His scoring was up and accuracy was down in rollercoaster year... Averaged 9.4 assists, ranking fourth in league... Made 70-foot shot against Nets to spark victory for Cavs... Earned $300,000 on contract he won before last season after becoming free agent... Observers no longer ridicule his selection as No. 12 overall in 1982... Born April 30, 1960, in Bridgeport Conn.... Most onlookers felt he made big mistake by leaving Boston College and entering draft after junior season... Scores in streaks... His lack of height works against him.
Relevant Stats:
11.7 ppg, 42.3 FG%, 9.4 apg
Friday, August 12, 2005
Phil Hubbard
Cleveland Cavaliers
6-8 205 Forward
May have turned out to be the most significant player for Cleveland in his absence... No one filled in adequately at his small-forward spot after he went down with knee injury 23 games into season... Made $225,000 last season, his option year, and then became franchise agent... Physical condition hurt his bargaining power... Was most consistent Cavs in previous seasons... Had prior serious knee injury while at Michigan, robbing him much of his prior mobility...197 U.S. Olympian... Pistons chose him No. 15 overall in 1979, after he had left college a year early... Born Dec. 13, 1956, in Canton, Ohio... Acquired from Pistons with Paul Mokeski and two draft picks for Kenny Carr and Bill Laimbeer in February 1982.
Relevant Stats:
11.4 ppg, 47.0 FG%, 5.2 rpg
6-8 205 Forward
May have turned out to be the most significant player for Cleveland in his absence... No one filled in adequately at his small-forward spot after he went down with knee injury 23 games into season... Made $225,000 last season, his option year, and then became franchise agent... Physical condition hurt his bargaining power... Was most consistent Cavs in previous seasons... Had prior serious knee injury while at Michigan, robbing him much of his prior mobility...197 U.S. Olympian... Pistons chose him No. 15 overall in 1979, after he had left college a year early... Born Dec. 13, 1956, in Canton, Ohio... Acquired from Pistons with Paul Mokeski and two draft picks for Kenny Carr and Bill Laimbeer in February 1982.
Relevant Stats:
11.4 ppg, 47.0 FG%, 5.2 rpg
Thursday, August 11, 2005
Ben Poquette
Cleveland Cavaliers
6-9 235 Forward
Gentle Ben isn't so gentle... Deserves better fate than his career has wrought -- one playoff appearance in nine seasons... Great role player... It seems foolish a team like the Nets didn't try to make deal for him as a backup to Buck Williams... Grabbed a rebound every 4.01 minutes on floor... Central Michigan star was chosen No. 36 overall by Pistons in 1977... Born May 7, 1955, in Ann Arbor, Mich.... Earned $284,000 last year before becoming free agent... Has great corner jump shot... Considering that he has averaged double figures in only one season, it's a tribute to his all-around game that he has lasted as long as he has... Cavs purchased him from Jazz prior to 1983-84... Still has a few good years left, if he can play for contending team.
Relevant Stats:
5.0 ppg, 47.7 FG%, 4.6 rpg
6-9 235 Forward
Gentle Ben isn't so gentle... Deserves better fate than his career has wrought -- one playoff appearance in nine seasons... Great role player... It seems foolish a team like the Nets didn't try to make deal for him as a backup to Buck Williams... Grabbed a rebound every 4.01 minutes on floor... Central Michigan star was chosen No. 36 overall by Pistons in 1977... Born May 7, 1955, in Ann Arbor, Mich.... Earned $284,000 last year before becoming free agent... Has great corner jump shot... Considering that he has averaged double figures in only one season, it's a tribute to his all-around game that he has lasted as long as he has... Cavs purchased him from Jazz prior to 1983-84... Still has a few good years left, if he can play for contending team.
Relevant Stats:
5.0 ppg, 47.7 FG%, 4.6 rpg
Wednesday, August 10, 2005
Keith Lee
Cleveland Cavaliers
6-10 230 Forward
Another guy who goes to dinner table better than he goes to his left... Reported to camp out of shape and became a rookie flop... Cavs regret 1985 draft-day trade in which they sent Calvin Duncan and Charles Oakley to Bulls for Lee and Ennis Whatley... Seems a lot of scouts were right when they advised their teams to pass on him, allowing him to slip to 11th overall after he had been projected as a top five selection... Born Dec. 28, 1962, in West Memphis, Ark.... Set six records at Memphis State, including rebounds (1,329) and points (2,398)... Averaged a foul every 5.9 minutes last season... will earn $301,666 this season.
Relevant Stats:
7.4 ppg, 46.6 FG%, 6.0 rpg
6-10 230 Forward
Another guy who goes to dinner table better than he goes to his left... Reported to camp out of shape and became a rookie flop... Cavs regret 1985 draft-day trade in which they sent Calvin Duncan and Charles Oakley to Bulls for Lee and Ennis Whatley... Seems a lot of scouts were right when they advised their teams to pass on him, allowing him to slip to 11th overall after he had been projected as a top five selection... Born Dec. 28, 1962, in West Memphis, Ark.... Set six records at Memphis State, including rebounds (1,329) and points (2,398)... Averaged a foul every 5.9 minutes last season... will earn $301,666 this season.
Relevant Stats:
7.4 ppg, 46.6 FG%, 6.0 rpg
Tuesday, August 09, 2005
Lonnie Shelton
Cleveland Cavaliers
6-8 285 Forward
In the past, he was a shadow of his present self... How big is he?... He's so big he can play the weak side and strong side at the same time... He can be stationed in the paint, but you won't know it, because when he's in it, you can't see it... Weight took its tool on his knees and he played only 44 games, second-fewest total of 10-year NBA career... Knicks drafted him No. 25 overall in 1976 as hardship case... Starred in Oregon State... Born Oct. 19, 1955, in Bakersfield, Cal.... Cavs got him from Sonics for second-round pick and cash prior to 1983-84... Earned $420,000 last season and then became free agent... May have eaten himself out of a job.
Relevant Stats:
4.5 ppg, 48.9 FG%, 3.25 rpg
6-8 285 Forward
In the past, he was a shadow of his present self... How big is he?... He's so big he can play the weak side and strong side at the same time... He can be stationed in the paint, but you won't know it, because when he's in it, you can't see it... Weight took its tool on his knees and he played only 44 games, second-fewest total of 10-year NBA career... Knicks drafted him No. 25 overall in 1976 as hardship case... Starred in Oregon State... Born Oct. 19, 1955, in Bakersfield, Cal.... Cavs got him from Sonics for second-round pick and cash prior to 1983-84... Earned $420,000 last season and then became free agent... May have eaten himself out of a job.
Relevant Stats:
4.5 ppg, 48.9 FG%, 3.25 rpg
Monday, August 08, 2005
Mel Turpin
Cleveland Cavaliers
6-11 265 Center
"Dinner-Bell Mel" jiggled his girth up and down the court last season, again failing to live up to expectations... Gund brothers, who own Cavs, must be shuddering as they contemplate paying him $900,000 this season... Can shoot, but that seems to be the only thing that interests him -- other than eating... There's no truth to the rumor that when 342-pound Geff Crompton was cut by the Cavs two years ago, he left this guy a list of his favorite eating places around the league... If he ever took the game seriously enough to really get in shape, he could be a serious force... Bullets picked him No. 6 overall in 1984, out of Kentucky... Was involved in draft-day, three-way trade that cost Cavs Cliff Robinson and No. 1 pick... Born Dec. 28, 1960, in Lexington, Ky... Pays for the privilege of overeating, because he has weight clause in contract.
Relevant Stats:
13.7 ppg, 54.4 FG%, 7.0 rpg
6-11 265 Center
"Dinner-Bell Mel" jiggled his girth up and down the court last season, again failing to live up to expectations... Gund brothers, who own Cavs, must be shuddering as they contemplate paying him $900,000 this season... Can shoot, but that seems to be the only thing that interests him -- other than eating... There's no truth to the rumor that when 342-pound Geff Crompton was cut by the Cavs two years ago, he left this guy a list of his favorite eating places around the league... If he ever took the game seriously enough to really get in shape, he could be a serious force... Bullets picked him No. 6 overall in 1984, out of Kentucky... Was involved in draft-day, three-way trade that cost Cavs Cliff Robinson and No. 1 pick... Born Dec. 28, 1960, in Lexington, Ky... Pays for the privilege of overeating, because he has weight clause in contract.
Relevant Stats:
13.7 ppg, 54.4 FG%, 7.0 rpg
Sunday, August 07, 2005
World B. Free
Cleveland Cavaliers
6-3 185 Guard
Was robbed when Eastern Conference coaches didn't vote him to All-Star team... Average of 23.4 ppg was his best since 1982-83, when he began season with Warriors, then was traded to Cavs for Ron Brewer in December... Made 42 percent of three-point field-goal attempts to finish fifth in league and third among players who took more than 100 of them... Was one of main protagonists in lengthly drama that led to firing of coach George Karl... Born Dec. 9, 1953, in Atlanta.. Drafted No. 23 overall by Philadelphia in 1975, out of Guilford College... He and former Celtic M.L. Carr led college team to NAIA title... Shoots from the hip, with a ball in his hand or a phrase on his tongue... "I put basketball on the map here," he said... Book on his life being prepared by suburban Cleveland writer... Earned $675,000 last year and Cavs held option on this season at price of $725,000.
Relevant Stats:
23.4 ppg, 45.5 FG%, 4.2 apg
UPDATE: Real name used to be Lloyd B. Free.
6-3 185 Guard
Was robbed when Eastern Conference coaches didn't vote him to All-Star team... Average of 23.4 ppg was his best since 1982-83, when he began season with Warriors, then was traded to Cavs for Ron Brewer in December... Made 42 percent of three-point field-goal attempts to finish fifth in league and third among players who took more than 100 of them... Was one of main protagonists in lengthly drama that led to firing of coach George Karl... Born Dec. 9, 1953, in Atlanta.. Drafted No. 23 overall by Philadelphia in 1975, out of Guilford College... He and former Celtic M.L. Carr led college team to NAIA title... Shoots from the hip, with a ball in his hand or a phrase on his tongue... "I put basketball on the map here," he said... Book on his life being prepared by suburban Cleveland writer... Earned $675,000 last year and Cavs held option on this season at price of $725,000.
Relevant Stats:
23.4 ppg, 45.5 FG%, 4.2 apg
UPDATE: Real name used to be Lloyd B. Free.
Saturday, August 06, 2005
Coach Doug Collins
Chicago Bulls
Replaced Stan Albeck as confused management made change for the sake of change... Albeck never had a legitimiate chance to succeed, since Michael Jordan missed most of 1985-86 season... Words of warning from Albeck: "I don't know if he (Collins) understands the meddling and interference that comes with this job. they're going to try and manipulate him."... Born July 28, 1951, in Christopher, Ill.... making him the youngest coach in the NBA... Was 76ers' top draftee in 1973, out of Illinois State... Played eight seasons before injuries ended career and scored 7,427 points... Four-time All-star, he scored 14 points for victorious East team in 1978... Had been assistant coach at Arizona State and color commentator on Sixers' games... Reportedly will earn $250,000 per season, so Bulls will pay half-million to two head coaches this season, because one guaranteed year remains on Albeck's contract.
Replaced Stan Albeck as confused management made change for the sake of change... Albeck never had a legitimiate chance to succeed, since Michael Jordan missed most of 1985-86 season... Words of warning from Albeck: "I don't know if he (Collins) understands the meddling and interference that comes with this job. they're going to try and manipulate him."... Born July 28, 1951, in Christopher, Ill.... making him the youngest coach in the NBA... Was 76ers' top draftee in 1973, out of Illinois State... Played eight seasons before injuries ended career and scored 7,427 points... Four-time All-star, he scored 14 points for victorious East team in 1978... Had been assistant coach at Arizona State and color commentator on Sixers' games... Reportedly will earn $250,000 per season, so Bulls will pay half-million to two head coaches this season, because one guaranteed year remains on Albeck's contract.
Friday, August 05, 2005
John Paxson
Chicago Bulls
6-2 185 Guard
Yet another product of the San Antonio connection, Coming to Chicago as free agent... Brother Jim plays for Trail Blazers... Finally got decent playing time, about 20 minutes per game, and showed a little talent... Spurs picked him 12th overall in 1983, out of Notre Dame... Can stick the outside shot, but so can a lot of gas jockeys... Born Sept. 29 1960, in Dayton, Ohio... Father Jim Sr. played in NBA for Cincinnati and Minneapolis... Erupted for 23 points in playoff game against Celtics... Will have to prove himself every training camp.
Relevant Stats:
5.3 ppg, 46.6 FG%, 3.6 apg
6-2 185 Guard
Yet another product of the San Antonio connection, Coming to Chicago as free agent... Brother Jim plays for Trail Blazers... Finally got decent playing time, about 20 minutes per game, and showed a little talent... Spurs picked him 12th overall in 1983, out of Notre Dame... Can stick the outside shot, but so can a lot of gas jockeys... Born Sept. 29 1960, in Dayton, Ohio... Father Jim Sr. played in NBA for Cincinnati and Minneapolis... Erupted for 23 points in playoff game against Celtics... Will have to prove himself every training camp.
Relevant Stats:
5.3 ppg, 46.6 FG%, 3.6 apg
Thursday, August 04, 2005
Jawaan Oldham
Chicago Bulls
7-0 255 Center
Missed 30 games with injuries, which didn't help him in contract negotiations after becoming free agent at end of 1984-85... Made $175,000 last season, when he started 47 times... Just coming into his own after six seasons in NBA... Agent made big pitch to get him out of Chicago prior to last season because he felt Oldham should start... Bulls didn't deal him, but did promote him past Dave Corzine... Born July 4, 1957, in Seattle... Drafted 41st overall by Nuggets in 1980, out of University of Seattle... More than doubled any teammates's blocked-shot total, finishing sixth in league with 2.57 per game last season... Had 13 points, 11 rebounds and six blocks in title game for gold-medal-winning U.S. team in 1979 World Games... Must improve offensive game, but appears to be true late bloomer.
Relevant Stats:
7.4 ppg, 51.7 FG%, 5.9 rpg
7-0 255 Center
Missed 30 games with injuries, which didn't help him in contract negotiations after becoming free agent at end of 1984-85... Made $175,000 last season, when he started 47 times... Just coming into his own after six seasons in NBA... Agent made big pitch to get him out of Chicago prior to last season because he felt Oldham should start... Bulls didn't deal him, but did promote him past Dave Corzine... Born July 4, 1957, in Seattle... Drafted 41st overall by Nuggets in 1980, out of University of Seattle... More than doubled any teammates's blocked-shot total, finishing sixth in league with 2.57 per game last season... Had 13 points, 11 rebounds and six blocks in title game for gold-medal-winning U.S. team in 1979 World Games... Must improve offensive game, but appears to be true late bloomer.
Relevant Stats:
7.4 ppg, 51.7 FG%, 5.9 rpg
Wednesday, August 03, 2005
Kyle Macy
Chicago Bulls
6-3 195 Guard
Signed as free agent for $305,000 annually prior to last season... Amounted to $4,500 raise over salary with Suns... Drafted 22nd overall by Suns in 1979... Born April 9, 1957, in Kendalville, Ind.... Cut his teeth on a basketball iron... Was coached by his father in Peru, Ind., as schoolboy and was state's "Mr. Basketball"... Tenor saxophonist played sweet music when teamed with Michael Jordan in backcourt, but was mediocre without him... Kentucky product led team in assists with 446... Good free-throw shooter, but he didn't drive to the basket enough to make his accuracy pay dividends for Bulls... In 2,426 minues, he took only 90 free throws, an average of one every 15.8 minutes... C'mon Kyle, get down 'n' dirty or you'll be down 'n' out.
Relevant Stats:
8.6 ppg, 48.3 FG%, 5.4 apg
6-3 195 Guard
Signed as free agent for $305,000 annually prior to last season... Amounted to $4,500 raise over salary with Suns... Drafted 22nd overall by Suns in 1979... Born April 9, 1957, in Kendalville, Ind.... Cut his teeth on a basketball iron... Was coached by his father in Peru, Ind., as schoolboy and was state's "Mr. Basketball"... Tenor saxophonist played sweet music when teamed with Michael Jordan in backcourt, but was mediocre without him... Kentucky product led team in assists with 446... Good free-throw shooter, but he didn't drive to the basket enough to make his accuracy pay dividends for Bulls... In 2,426 minues, he took only 90 free throws, an average of one every 15.8 minutes... C'mon Kyle, get down 'n' dirty or you'll be down 'n' out.
Relevant Stats:
8.6 ppg, 48.3 FG%, 5.4 apg
Tuesday, August 02, 2005
Dave Corzine
Chicago Bulls
6-11 255 Center
Begins last year on contract which, inlucing share of signing bunus, will pay him $710,000 this season... Never was worth that much, but Nets gave him huge offer sheet when he was with San Antonio in the hope that Spurs wouldn't match it... They did and shipped him and Mark Olberding to Windy City and Artis Gilmore prior to 1982-83... A journeyman at best, he couldn't handle weight of huge salary... Decent player with good shooting touch... Was No. 18 pick overall by Bullets in 1978, out of DePaul... Born April 28, 1956, in Arlington Heights, Ill.... Might as well weigh 155 for all the banging he does... Prefers to stay outside and pop jumpers... Limited to 67 games due to injuries last season after appearing in all 82 games for five straight years.
Relevant Stats:
9.6 ppg, 49.1 FG%, 6.5 rpg
6-11 255 Center
Begins last year on contract which, inlucing share of signing bunus, will pay him $710,000 this season... Never was worth that much, but Nets gave him huge offer sheet when he was with San Antonio in the hope that Spurs wouldn't match it... They did and shipped him and Mark Olberding to Windy City and Artis Gilmore prior to 1982-83... A journeyman at best, he couldn't handle weight of huge salary... Decent player with good shooting touch... Was No. 18 pick overall by Bullets in 1978, out of DePaul... Born April 28, 1956, in Arlington Heights, Ill.... Might as well weigh 155 for all the banging he does... Prefers to stay outside and pop jumpers... Limited to 67 games due to injuries last season after appearing in all 82 games for five straight years.
Relevant Stats:
9.6 ppg, 49.1 FG%, 6.5 rpg
Monday, August 01, 2005
George Gervin
Chicago Bulls
6-8 185 Guard
Somehow it didn't seem right for the Spurs to have traded a legend to the Bulls... Took him long time to adjust... Michael Jordan's injury helped, since it provided him with more playing time than he would have gotten... "Ice has a few more years left," said former coach Stan Albeck, who rode Gervin's scoring to three straight 50-plus-victory seasons with the Spurs... Earned base salary of $771,000 last season before becoming free agent... born April 27, 1952, in Detroit..."The Iceman" was drafted 40th overall by Suns in 1974, but he already had played two years with ABA teams in Virginia and San Antonio by that time... Tossed out of Eastern Michigan after one year for fighting... Last year, he remarried woman who had divorced him the year before... Played only 11 minutes in playoffs.
Relevant Stats:
16.2 ppg, 47.2 FG%, 87.9 FT%
6-8 185 Guard
Somehow it didn't seem right for the Spurs to have traded a legend to the Bulls... Took him long time to adjust... Michael Jordan's injury helped, since it provided him with more playing time than he would have gotten... "Ice has a few more years left," said former coach Stan Albeck, who rode Gervin's scoring to three straight 50-plus-victory seasons with the Spurs... Earned base salary of $771,000 last season before becoming free agent... born April 27, 1952, in Detroit..."The Iceman" was drafted 40th overall by Suns in 1974, but he already had played two years with ABA teams in Virginia and San Antonio by that time... Tossed out of Eastern Michigan after one year for fighting... Last year, he remarried woman who had divorced him the year before... Played only 11 minutes in playoffs.
Relevant Stats:
16.2 ppg, 47.2 FG%, 87.9 FT%
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