It seems to me that since they signed contracts to play that maybe the contracts should be canceled due to their lack of and/or disinterest in playing basketball. At least the three or four largest contracts could be canceled due to lack of desire to be team players. Arroyo was one who wanted to be the star and cried like a baby if he couldn't. Others who just crazily shot without thinking ought to be benched also. When they play the way they should, they are very good — but when they become selfish they fall apart. I don't know what is happening behind the curtains but I feel right now Okur does not hustle.

Additionally, most teams know we are not an out side shooting team so they just jam up the middle. We need someone who is consistent at the outside.

Ray Prescott,

Afton, Wyo.

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Let the shooters shoot

Jerry should encourage the shooters to shoot. Too often we've seen an open shot passed because not enough players have touched the ball. No selfish play, just better decisions on when to shoot and when to pass. Very discouraging these days to watch a game when you know the odds are 2 to 1 it's going to be another loss. The pattern seems to be once behind in the score the game is over. In years past it didn't matter there always seemed to be the feeling a win was still possible. We love the Jazz but winning makes it much more fun.

Bob Ferguson

Apple Valley, Calif.

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Harpring for Ratliff, pick Paul

Trade Matt Harping to Portland for Theo Ratliff. Tank the rest of the season and pick up Chris Paul for the point guard and they will be all right.

Derrick, Salt Lake City

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Sloan doesn't relate to players

Coach has outlived his usefulness a long time ago, we have very good players but he doesn't know how to relate to them.

Jack Minton

Salt Lake City

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Foul rules changed — shoot the 3

The Jazz problem is the league's tighter foul calling. We lose games because other teams shoot twice as many free throws as we do. Boring! I know Jerry is about tough defense and pounding the ball inside on offense, but we need to adjust to the current NBA climate. Tweak the line-up. Get some three point shooters, and start running like the Suns and Sonics. Exciting!

Brent Vernon

Fort Collins, Colo.

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