NBA Notes; Vecsey On Payton; Sam Smith On Glen Rice Trades

[Way Of The Ray <wayray@ix.netcom.com>]

The Hawks are looking for quality depth.  Their backups in the
backcourt and scorers off the bench all washed out, so that's
what they're seeking with their $4.4 million cap space and 4 first
round picks.  Can you say Dana Barros or Minor, if he's judged to be
healthy?  Well more Barros than Minor...

One that got away, David Wesley, had surgery to repair torn cartilage
in his knee.  This may reinforce the rumors that the Hornets are
going to take Baron Davis in the draft, depriving the Clippers
of their preferred choice. However, it now appears Charlotte is
interested
in Steve Francis, so LA Junior may get the local guy after all...

Peter Vecsey says the Celtics and a whole array of other clubs inquired
about Gary Payton and were told that he's not available.  Chalk one up
to Pitino's truthfulness...

Sam Smith says Miami is offering PJ Brown for Glen Rice, but the Lakers
want to trade him for a high lottery pick -- Hello Vancouver -- so they
can snag a premiere point guard in the draft - Hello Baron Davis or
Steve Francis... 

Ray