Northwest Division

Sun., Oct. 29, 2006

The Spokesman-Review

WESTERN CONFERENCE

1. Denver Nuggets

Outlook: So much depends on Kenyon Martin because without him happy and productive there’s no appetizing option behind Carmelo Anthony. Then again, the Nuggets might be able to win this division without Martin.

Projected starters: G Andre Miller; G J.R. Smith; F Carmelo Anthony; F Kenyon Martin; C Marcus Camby

2. Utah Jazz

Outlook: The Jazz have size and toughness in surplus in the frontcourt. The real wild card might be coach Jerry Sloan, infamous for quickly losing patience and constantly shuffling lineups.

Projected starters: G Derek Fisher; G Deron Williams; F Matt Harpring; F Andrei Kirilenko; C Mehmet Okur.

3. Minnesota Timberwolves

Outlook: Kevin Garnett says he’s happy in Minnesota, but it’s hard to see why, considering the franchise’s several failed attempts to build a team around him. Newcomers Mike James and Randy Foye provide hope, but that’s it.

Projected starters: G Mike James; G Ricky Davis; F Trenton Hassell; F Kevin Garnett; C Mark Blount

4. Seattle SuperSonics

Outlook: Seattle’s 2004-05 division title seems so long ago. Ray Allen is 31 and playing on balky knees. Now there’s a chance the new owners from Oklahoma City may move the franchise.

Projected starters: G Luke Ridnour; G Ray Allen; F Rashard Lewis; F Chris Wilcox; C Johan Petro

5. Portland Trail Blazers

Outlook: It’s still about tomorrow in Portland, where the team’s future is uncertain. Brandon Roy and LaMarcus Aldridge are the latest prospects added to the collection of young talent, but they can’t help make Portland competitive now.

Projected starters: G Jarrett Jack; G Brandon Roy; F Darius Miles; F Zach Randolph; C Joel Przybilla

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Northwest Division

1. Denver Nuggets

2. Utah Jazz

3. Minnesota Timberwolves

4. Seattle SuperSonics

5. Portland Trail Blazers

Jesse Tinsley

Jim Meehan

Molly Quinn

Rob Curley

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