OAKLAND, Calif. -- Here are five observations of the Portland Trail Blazers from a preseason game against Golden State:

	Bonzi Wells didn't sign with the Blazers until the day before training camp.

1. Bonzi Wells is back, but he isn't doing cartwheels. It's a testament to Wells' game that he had 20 points without trying in the same exhibition, but he couldn't have cared less on D, not once attempting to fight through a screen chasing Antawn Jamison and repeatedly failing to box out. Whether it's last season's unrequited trade rumors or the tough challenge he faces for minutes if Scottie Pippen and Ruben Patterson are healthy, Wells looks and acts as if he'd rather be elsewhere.

2. There's no better power forward in the league than Rasheed Wallace. Maybe this isn't news to some of you, or maybe you put 'Sheed in the young Derrick Coleman category -- unparalleled talent discounted by reckless behavior -- but Wallace took a heap of physical abuse in an exhibition against the Warriors and, completely poised, toyed with them for 26 points, 11 rebounds and no technical fouls.

3. Don't expect to see much of Qyntel Woods this season. The rookie committed two turnovers in six minutes, nearly had a third and generally looked lost on the floor. This roster is so deep it could be two years before he even competes for a spot in the rotation.

4. The world may not think much of Damon Stoudamire, but his teammates do. Little guy, big contract, crowded backcourt -- it's the perfect mix for some genuine hatin'. But the Blazers set solid screens, spread the floor and let him drive or hoist 3s with nary a complaint or ill body gesture. Scottie Pippen is the team's true point guard when healthy, but Damon collected 11 assists vs. no turnovers against the Warriors. OK, so I don't remember seeing a single dime he threw -- that's still a solid stat.

5. Maurice Cheeks' resting heart rate must be about 12 beats per minute. It's amazing how calmly he presides over a team loaded with such streaky talent and, uh, spirited personalities. The Blazers led by as many as 18 but let the Warriors close to two before winning by 15, then lost to them decisively at home a few nights later. Moreover, the players appreciate it, particularly Wallace. I can't think of a coach with a better demeanor for this team.

Ric Bucher covers the NBA for ESPN The Magazine. E-mail him at ric.bucher@espnmag.com.