Knicks at Night/Golfer by Day

by Jordan Mamorsky and Ryan Sherwin

NETS

Point Guard: Stephon Marbury is the real deal. Marbury is versatile and explodes to the rim with the best of them. On any given night, Marbury can hit for 30 and shut down the opposing team's point guard. However, questions about Stephon's team attitude still linger, and it is important that he shares the ball with Keith Van Horn. If Stephon is able to average 20 points and 10 assists a game, give the Nets a playoff berth, and Stephon is an all-star. Veteran Sherman Douglas is a great back-up, who can give Marbury a break when needed. Grade A

Shooting Guard: The sporadic Kerry Kittles is out for the year, which could be a blow to the Net's success. Kendall Gill has been able to go back to his old position of shooting guard, and that should increase his numbers greatly. Gill has a good jump shot, and is one of the league's most respected defenders. His ability to get the ball and create his own shot means that defenders will have to show him respect. Lucious Harris is injured which forces Kevin Ollie to play out of position. Lack of depth may become a key factor during the season at this position. Grade B-

Small Forward: Rookie Stephen Jackson was not even supposed to make the team, but has been the surprise player. He can be the x-factor in games and could lead the Nets to some important victories. Keith Van Horn has to stay healthy. Missing the first weeks of the season could cost the team a possible playoff birth. Van Horn is a quality player who is at his natural position of small forward. His height will serve as an advantage against the Eastern Conference's small forwards. Johnny Newman will back up Van Horn and can fill minutes. Newman is in his 15th year in the NBA and will help the Nets off the bench. Unlike the position of shooting guard, small forward has excellent depth. Grade B+

Power Forward: This is a position of strength for the Nets. If first round draft pick Kenyon Martin doesn't prove himself true, the Nets still have two quality players to back him up in Aaron Williams and the Great White Hope Jamie Feick. The free agent acquisition of Aaron Williams, combined with Jamie Feick, should give the Nets domination under the boards. If Kenyon Martin lives up to his potential, the Nets have a budding all-star. The trio has to dominate opposing power forwards for the Nets to be a playoff caliber team. Grade A-