The Nba Playoffs

5) Guard Alvin Robertson, who, after signing a five-year contract extension with Milwaukee on New Year's Day, has not been the night-in, night-out defensive demon that he was the first two months of the season.

And Five to Ponder

These aren't the players you think of first on their respective teams, but they are counted on during the playoffs.

1) Center Mark Eaton, a prototypical half-court player who will have to be quite intimidating if Utah is to avoid a third consecutive first-round elimination.

2) Forward Buck Williams, who, because he really doesn't excel in the defensive categories that appear on stat sheets (blocked shots and steals), is often overlooked as a one-on-one defender. But Portland will need him to shut down the opposition's toughest scorer.

3) Guard John Paxson, who with his best career shooting percentage (.548), has given Chicago a reliable outside alternative to Michael Jordan.

4) Forward Dennis Rodman, whom the Pistons will ask to guard the Hawks' Dominique Wilkins (first round), the Celtics' Larry Bird (second) and you-know-who in the conference final.

5) Forward Chuck Person. O.K., Rifleman. Want a chance to upset Boston? Can you get it into your head to take it to the hoop once in a while? After all, teammate Reggie Miller—not the greatest physical specimen—shot about 350 more free throws than you did this season.

Match Game

At week's end, a number of key players on a number of teams were struggling with various injuries and maladies. Match them up. (Answers, below right)