PHILADELPHIA -- Shooting guard Rex Chapman, acquired from the Charlotte Hornets on Feb. 19 for forward Tom Hammonds, made his Washington Bullets debut against the Philadelphia 76ers last night.

Chapman, a No. 1 draft pick of the Hornets in 1988, has missed 60 games this season with a heel injury. He tested the heel in three strenuous practices two weeks ago before straining his Achilles' tendon, again delaying his return.

"I just want to get out there and play again," Chapman said before the game. "I want to see what it feels like to play in a real game."

Bullets management was just as anxious to see how Chapman would survive the test. If his heel acts up again, they will suggest immediate surgery.

The Bullets will put Chapman through two more weeks of private workouts after the season to determine his fitness.