Can anybody catch Kareem or Stock?

Currently: He is averaging 8.5 assists per game this year and 9.2 per game for his career and has 7,855.

Chances of catching Stockton: None. He is 7,951 behind the ex-Jazz star. He'd have to play 12 more seasons at his current pace.

GARY PAYTON, Miami Heat

Currently: More assists than any active player and sixth on the all-time list, one spot behind Isiah Thomas with 8,726.

Chances of catching Stockton: None. He's about ready to retire and is averaging just 3.2 assists per game this year.

STEVE NASH, Phoenix Suns

Currently: Defending MVP leads the league again this season with an average of 10.7 assists per game. He has 4,888 for his career.

Chances of catching Stockton: None. He's 10,918 behind Stockton. Even averaging 11 assists per game would mean he'd have to play 12 more seasons.

CHAUNCEY BILLUPS, Detroit Pistons

Currently: Averaging 8.8 assists this year and thought of as one of the top point guards in the league.

Chances of catching Stockton: None. He has just 3,029 assists for his career.

CHRIS PAUL, New Orleans Hornets

Currently: The league's best young point guard is averaging 7.9 assists per game as a rookie.

Chances of catching Stockton: Extremely slim. He's just starting out, but he'd probably have to improve and play 20 years to come close.

Overall outlook: Stockton's record may never fall. Certainly the all-time scoring lead is more vulnerable.

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E-mail: lojo@desnews.com