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Thursday, February 20, 1997

New Mavericks like their new digs

DALLAS (AP) - Shawn Bradley is ready to justify Don Nelson's faith in him.

Bradley was one of four players the Dallas Mavericks got when general manager Nelson traded five players to the New Jersey Nets.

The 24-year-old Bradley, now with his third NBA team, said Wednesday it was a "great compliment" for Nelson to call Bradley one of the best centers in the league.

Nelson said that the 7-6 Bradley "eventually can become one of the top five centers in the NBA."

"I know I need to work hard and climb that ladder up to number one," Bradley said. "I have to keep working to make that happen. I appreciate Don's confidence in me."

The gangly Bradley and point guard Robert Pack were the two reasons Nelson made the trade with the Nets.

Bradley, who leads the NBA in blocked shots, said he knew he needed to work harder but said he may never gain weight.

"I don't expect to be able to put on 40 or 50 pounds," he said. "My metabolism just won't slow. I'm not concerned about it."

Pack said he was excited to be part of a new era with the Mavericks, who have never played in an NBA final.

Pack averages 15.9 points and 9.6 assists. However, he currently is on the injury list with an ankle problem.

Pack defends himself against critics who say he is more of a shooting guard than a point guard.

"I had to score with the Nets," Pack said. "But I love to run the break and get others involved. I love to pass and watch a guy finish strong. Surround me with scorers and shooters and watch how I run the point."

Ed O'Bannon has a chance to get his stalled career going.

He has averaged 6.2 points this year and has been nursing a sore knee.

"I guess I kind of fell into a rut at New Jersey," O'Bannon said. "I'm looking forward to getting started here and doing something positive."

The new Mavericks get their first chance to play together on Thursday night when Dallas plays Milwaukee.Send a Letter to the Editor about This Story | Start or Join A Discussion about This Story
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