DENVER: While Marcus Camby was an overrated straight-up defender, he could at least be counted on to erase many of the defensive shortcomings of Allen Iverson, Carmelo Anthony and J.R. Smith. Camby has been replaced by the undisciplined antics of Chris Anderson and the slender presence of Steven Hunter. The Nuggets have never been known for playing defense, but the paint will now be a launching pad for opponents' dunks and layups.

GOLDEN STATE: Added together, Ronny Turiaf, Marcus Williams and Corey Maggette can't replace the explosive presence of the departed Baron Davis. Monta Ellis's mysterious injury will further ensure that the Warriors will lose too many battles as the campaign opens and will be playing only for honor as the season comes to a merciful conclusion.

NEW JERSEY: Eduardo Najera is tougher defensively but can't equal Nenad Krstic's scoring, and at best Jarvis Hayes and Bostjan Nachbar are a wash. But which of the newcomers can hope to replace the scoring and the defense provided by Richard Jefferson? Not Yi Jianlian. Not Bobby Simmons. Not anybody currently under contract. All of which means more touches and more shots for Vince Carter — which, in turn, means more opportunities for VC to continue his habit of choking in the clutch.

Meanwhile, the Nets will barely tread water (while hoping that they don't drown) as they wait for Godot, er, LeBron.

SACRAMENTO: Without Artest, the Kings are much softer at both ends. Except for the coming-of-age of Kevin Martin, most of the holdovers and newcomers are either too young, too old or just lacking in talent.