1.   Based on his pedigree, Feather Box only figures to improve with more distance.

2.   McIlvaine, entering his fifth year out of Marquette, figures to improve a Nets defense that was among the most permeable in the league last year.

3.   Still, the sobering truth for all challengers is that Arizona only figures to improve.

4.   With a creaky back already limiting his minutes, Robinson does not figure to improve his production.

5.   Besides, the team figures to improve when Alfonzo and third baseman Robin Ventura -- on the DL with a bruised rotator cuff -- return to the lineup.

6.   It was a near flawless performance for the sophomore quarterback, who only figures to improve as he gets more experience.