After the game against the Suns, the Lakers stood at 7-1, tied with Houston atop the Western Conference. Behind them were the 7-2 SuperSonics, followed by the 5-3 Jazz.
The SuperSonics had maintained the exceptionally high standard that had made them the top seed in the West last season. After battling Jordan through an entire series, they had become much more seasoned this year.
Gary Payton had just signed a new contract over the summer, a four-year, $40 million deal. While maintaining his elite defensive level, he had also increased his shot attempts, from 15.8 per game last year to 18.1. His averages had risen to 21.8 points, 4.6 rebounds, 7.1 assists, and 2.4 steals.
Gary Payton's post game had become increasingly refined. As his strength kept improving, he could back down 80 percent of the league's point guards in the low post.
This was Shawn Kemp's contract year. Rumor had it that he had offered the SuperSonics a five-year, $80 million extension, but they had refused. The SuperSonics could not possibly pay Kemp more than Payton. That had left Rain Man playing with anger this season. He wanted to prove his worth in a contract year and had even cut back on his nightclub visits.
The Utah Jazz had not looked particularly good out of the gate. Whether they won or lost, they had struggled in their games, including an 85-91 defeat against Olajuwon.
As Malone gradually became more aggressive, the team had begun to recover its form. With Malone's all-around performances, they were slowly getting back on track.
The Lakers and Houston's lead had the media buzzing. On one side stood a star-studded Big Three; on the other, a new Magic Johnson and Skyhook.
Especially since the Lakers had won their matchup in double overtime, there was simply