Karl Malone and John Stockton received cheers during pre-game introductions Wednesday night. The crowd at TD Waterhouse Centre, appreciative of their contributions to the game, also realized that it's uncertain whether this tandem will be together in Utah next season.

Both players, whose contracts expire at the end of the season, have been evasive when asked to give a definitive answer on their status for next season. Malone, 39, will probably play again. But there is speculation, as there has been for three years, that he might sign with a team closer to a championship. Stockton, who turns 41 on March 26, is more of a mystery.

If they both want to play, they will be sought after; they can still play.