Because of Zydrunas Ilgauskas' track record -- he's played 29 games in the past three NBA seasons -- the Cavs' deep thinkers felt they had to come out of the 2001 draft with a big man.

They needed height in the worst way. The college game is no longer producing centers that can play in the NBA. While preparing for the draft, Cavs coach John Lucas became infatuated with Oak Hill Academy center DeSagana Diop.

Now comes the disturbing news about Diop's "stress reaction" to his left foot. Cavs team physician Dr. Richard Parker said the condition is a symptom of overuse. Diop was fitted for a protective boot and his activities will be severely curtailed for two weeks.