EAST RUTHERFORD - Every team in the NBA's Eastern Conference feels that its chances of beating the 76ers are slim to none if its scheme involves muscling the defending conference champions.

Quickness is an asset. Athleticism is mandatory. A running game is essential, and proper execution never hurts. The New Jersey Nets walked onto their home floor last night with the intent of using those elements to their advantage. Things did not quite work out the way they would have liked.

Riding a game-high 28-point effort from Allen Iverson, a 20-point, 8-rebound effort from Derrick Coleman, and 12 assists from Aaron McKie, the Sixers methodically downed the Nets, 94-82, before a crowd of 17,318 last night at the Continental Airlines Arena.