NBA games lost yesterday: 8.

Total games missed: 258.

Earliest estimated date season can start: Jan. 15.

Projected player salary losses (through Jan. 15): $430 million.

Negotiations: Nothing scheduled. Union director Billy Hunter told agents during a conference call that he expects some of the season will be salvaged. Commissioner David Stern has refused to set a date after which all games will be canceled. Asked Tuesday, whether the season could begin in mid-February, he said, "No, I don't think so, but I am going to leave that to the Board of Governors."

Today's best canceled game: L.A. Lakers at Houston. Agent Leonard Armato's only two clients, Shaquille O'Neal and Hakeem Olajuwon, go against each other in the pivot.

Pub Date: 12/10/98