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Who would’ve won this hypothetical finals that year?

Portland's roster:
PG: Damon Stoudamire / Greg Anthony / Gary Grant
SG: Isaiah Rider / Jim Jackson
SF: Brian Grant / Stacey Augmon / Walt Williams
PF: Rasheed Wallace / Jermaine O'Neal
C: Arvydas Sabonis / Kelvin Cato

New York's roster:
PG: Charlie Ward / Chris Childs / Rick Brunson
SG: Allan Houston / David Wingate
SF: Larry Johnson / Latrell Sprewell
PF: Kurt Thomas
C: Patrick Ewing / Marcus Camby / Chris Dudley / Herb Williams

I think the Knicks win this one. The Blazers weren't there just yet, as evidenced by them getting swept by the Spurs in the Western Conference Finals. The next year, when they got Scottie Pippen, was their chance. If Tim Donaghy didn't fix the 2000 Western Conference Finals, the Blazers most likely beat Indiana.

Hard to believe any team relying on Arvydas Sabonis's physical health and JR Rider's mental health wins an NBA title.

Blazers for sure. Over the Knicks.

Now change it around.
1999 Blazers vs Pacers
2000 Bazers vs Pacers.

Pacers wins one of those. Split.

1999 Jazz vs Pacers/Knicks? Id' say the Jazz.

1999 Lakers vs Pacers/Knicks. Id' pick Lakers over the Knicks. But Pacers over the Lakers (LA was younger and not ready yet). But Lakers did beat Pacers in 2000 NBA Finals. 4-2. Lakers had built chemistry by then and more matured. Coaching stability (Phil Jackson).

1998 Pacers vs Jazz? Toss up. But, I'd say Jazz.
1997 Heat vs Jazz? I'd say Jazz.

Blazers. Not close.