NBA games lost yesterday: 7.

Total games missed: 149.

Earliest estimated date that season can start: Dec. 22.

Projected player salary losses (through Dec. 22): $298 million.

Negotiations: The two sides met briefly and won't hold a full negotiating session until Saturday.

Today's best canceled game: Houston at Minnesota. Timberwolves youngsters Stephon Marbury and Kevin Garnett square off against Rockets veterans Hakeem Olajuwon and Charles Barkley, if he returns to Houston.

Pub Date: 11/24/98