Steph is sick of losing -- well, better luck next year.

WHAT'S THE FORECAST?
Sure was cloudy in Phoenix last season, as the Suns finished with only 36 W's and then had to watch JKidd take the Nets to the Finals. Stephon Marbury says he's just plain tired of losing (about time) and promises more leadership (about time). Tom Gugliotta and Penny Hardaway promise productivity after shaking off nagging injuries. We say that's wishful thinking and that, once again, you won't need shades to follow the Suns.

STARTING FIVE
Not that long ago, this team was sick and tired of losing in the first round of the playoffs every season. Now those look like the good old days.

Pacific Division

1. Kings

2. Lakers

3. Clippers

4. Blazers

5. Sonics

6. Suns

7. Warriors

Scouting Report Index

Tom Gugliotta, PF: Nonfactor since left knee surgery in March '00. Damn shame
Shawn Marion, SF: Has 79M reasons to be happy, very happy
Jake Tsakalidis, C: Big body (7'2", 285), puny contribution (7.3 ppg)
Joe Johnson, SG: With nine-year vet Penny well spent, JJ's future is now
Stephon Marbury, PG: Think he ever questions why he left Minnesota?

BENCH
Amare Stoudemire, who played like a man among boys in HS, now is among men. Rookie Casey Jacobsen won't be shy. Penny says he's healthy. Again.

GLOBAL VIEW
Tsakalidis (Republic of Georgia)
averaged 13.5 ppg last 11 games.

FREEWHEELIN' WITH WALTON
Sad. The dream rides on a high schooler in the middle, Stoudemire.

This article will appear in the November 11 issue of ESPN The Magazine.