Around the Association

Here are my random observations on the first week of NBA action:



---I picked the Cavs to win the East, but I'm starting to reconsider. The Fighting LeBrons are fresh off two consecutive wins against the lowly T'Wolves and Bobcats, but Cleveland's flaws were seriously exposed in their first two games against the Celtics and Raptors. The additions of Shaquille O'Neal and Anthony Parker are supposed to give LeBron adequate help, but King James was all alone in losses to Boston and Toronto. As of this writing, the Celtics look unstoppable and the Magic look strong. It's far too early for real concern, but the Cavs are falling behind the pack in the East.



---We all knew the Celtics were great, but I didn't expect them to look this great. The C's looked stunningly good in their commanding win at Cleveland, a win followed by a blowout victory against the Bobcats. The Big 3 of Paul Pierce, Ray Allen, and Kevin Garnett is now a Big 4, thanks to the superb point guard play of Rajon Rondo. If Danny Ainge and the Boston front office are smart, they will reward Rondo with a contract extension now. Meanwhile, the new acquisitions of Rasheed Wallace and Marquis Daniels have payed enormous dividends. Daniels has looked especially sharp, providing Doc Rivers' team with another explosive scorer and fierce defender off the bench.



---It was painful to watch Greg Oden down the stretch in the Blazers' home loss to the Nuggets on Thursday night. Oden continues to look like he's sixty, limping his way from baseline to baseline. The fact that Oden missed two clutch free throws in the final seconds further exposed him as not ready for primetime. Sad.



---Speaking of that Nuggets-Blazers game, what a spectacular performance by Carmelo Anthony. Brandon Roy was playing terrific defense, but Melo just could not be stopped. Anthony looks like a man on a mission this season, and he should scare the hell out of the rest of the league.



---They may have looked bad in a loss to the Bulls on Thursday night, but it is evident that the Spurs made a brilliant move by acquiring Richard Jefferson. The addition of Jefferson adds years to the playing careers of Tony Parker, Manu Ginobli, and Tim Duncan.



---What an impressive win by the Dallas Mavericks on Friday night. After a disappointing opening-night home loss to Gilbert Arenas and the Wizards, the Mavs rebounded with a dominating road win against the defending-champion Lakers. If Friday night's performance was any indication, the Dirk Nowitzki-Shawn Marion duo will be hard to beat.



---Things are not looking good for the Pistons. First, they looked helpless against Kevin Durant and the Oklahoma City Thunder. Then, they were soundly defeated by Michael Redd and the Milwaukee Bucks. Detroit has some big-time talent (Rip Hamilton, Ben Gordon, Tayshaun Prince, Rodney Stuckey), but they have no chemistry whatsoever. Detroit used to be an elite NBA franchise, but ever since they traded away Chauncey Billups the Pistons have been floundering.



---From the department of ugly uniforms, say hello to your 2009 Charlotte Bobcats! The addition of pinstripes to the Bobcats uniforms was a horribly ill-advised idea.



---Well, Stephen Curry has showed great promise, but other than that it has been a rough start for my Golden State Warriors. If I were Don Nelson, I would play Ronny Turiaf more minutes. Turiaf is not a perfect player by any stretch, but he is an endlessly tenacious and energetic competitor who gives his team a spark every time he is on the floor.



---So Brandon Jennings has looked solid for the Milwaukee Bucks. Jennings was labeled a brash, immature hot shot after he handled himself poorly at the NBA Draft, but he has a chance to endear himself to NBA fans with his play.



---Everyone knows that Mike D'Antoni is an offensive-minded coach, but does he do any defensive drills in practice? His Knicks looked absolutely helpless defensively as Andre Iguodala and Elton Brand led the Sixers to a 141-127 win over New York last night.



---There is serious cause for concern in New Orleans. No disrespect to Emeka Okafor, but the absence of Tyson Chandler has left the Hornets in a state of total disarray. The Hornets were thrashed by the Spurs last Wednesday night, and they had to scratch and claw their way to victory at home against the lowly Kings on Friday night. The front office in New Orleans has done a poor job. A team that was a title contender two years ago will now have to fight for a playoff spot. Chris Paul deserves better.



---And finally, it's great to see E.J., Kenny, and Charles back in action. "Inside the NBA" is the best sports show on television, a must-see every Thursday night.

King James Acting Like a Prince: LeBron's petulant offseason continues

Have LeBron James and Kobe Bryant swapped places? Prior to the 2009 NBA offseason, the common assumption was that King James was the best, most mature player in basketball, a freakish athlete who also happens to be a superb role model. Prior to the 2009 NBA offseason, Kobe Bryant was viewed by many as an incredibly talented player who also happens to be a selfish jerk. Flash forward a month or so and the tables have turned. Kobe is fresh off his fourth NBA championship, playing in a NBA Finals in which he was more of a team player than boll hog. Bryant's uncharacteristic performance in the Finals went a long way in making people forget about his despicable offseason rants a couple of years ago in which he unleashed an all-out verbal assault via the internet toward his teammate Andrew Bynum. I maintain the belief that Kobe showed his true colors in that online rant, but even a Laker hater and Kobe critic like myself was impressed by his unselfish play in the Finals. Meanwhile, LeBron's reputation continues to take a nosedive. Now, Kobe need not worry about his immature past. Because King James has overtaken the throne when it comes to offseason petulance.

First, there was the incident after Game 6 against the Magic in the Eastern Conference Finals when LeBron refused to shake hands with the Orlando players and refused to talk to the media after his Cavs were eliminated. That did not reflect well on LeBron, but many, including myself, simply chalked it up to the understandable frustration of losing. But the regrettable antics did not stop there. Last month, while shopping in New York City, LeBron was spotted wearing a shirt that read, "LBJ. MVP" in big, bold letters. Once again, LeBron was ripped by the media, criticized for such an unnecessary, boastful display of self-promotion. But those two incidents were nothing compared to what would transpire next. Ladies and gentleman, say hello to our newest sports scandal: Dunkgate.

This past week at LeBron James' basketball camp in Akron, Ohio, King James reached a new low. During a pickup game, Xavier University guard Jordan Crawford finished off a fastbreak by dunking over none other than the King himself. It was a reportedly electrifying moment, undoubtedly the most exciting moment of Crawford's life. Yet don't expect to see any footage of the dunk any time soon, as Nike, apparently at the behest of James, immediately confiscated all evidence of the dunk. After all, LeBron James takes major pride in being the best player in the NBA, and there is no way in hell he was about to let the world see him get dunked on by an unknown college player. What LeBron failed to realize is that by confiscating the tapes, he only makes himself look even worse. By denying the world a chance to see the dunk, LeBron comes across as egotistical, overly self-conscious, and terribly insecure. If LeBron had laughed the incident off and released the video of Crawford's dunk, nobody would have made anything of it. Sure, it would been a great moment for Jordan Crawford and a moment of mild humiliation for LeBron, but the incident would be quickly forgotten. Now, thanks to LeBron's shocking insecurity, Crawford's dunk has got the world talking, and LeBron's lack of maturity is at the forefront of sports discussion.

Okay, maybe I'm being a little too harsh. After all, I still love LeBron. He is the best player in basketball, and I still think he is more mature than he has shown over the past couple of weeks. However, as the offseason progresses, LeBron continues to test my patience. His obsession with reaching global icon status is causing him to make decisions that are counterproductive and downright stupid. LeBron is still the King, but if this unfortunate behavior persists, he will no longer be worthy of the title of royalty.

NBA Midseason Report

The All-Star break is upon us, as we get ready for some scintillating dunks and major star power this weekend in Phoenix. But first, allow me to take a look back at the first half of the 2008-2009 NBA season, as well as look forward to the upcoming playoff push.

TOP 3 MVP CANDIDATES

1. LeBron James: The best player in the game now has a stellar cast around him, and the Cavs have their sights set on a championship.
2. Dwight Howard: They call him Superman for a reason. The best big man in basketball is an astonishing talent with a Shaq-size personality.
3. Chauncey Billups: Certainly, the Nuggets were already a good team before the Billups-Iverson trade, but Billups has made Denver a viable threat in the West.

TOP 5 TEAMS

1. Los Angeles Lakers: As faithful readers already know, I am not a Kobe fan, as evidenced by his absence on my MVP list. However, much to my dismay, the Lakers are the best team in the league right now. Andrew Bynum's injury makes it much tougher on L.A., but if Lamar Odom continues to play with the same unstoppable intensity that he displayed in Cleveland this past Sunday, Phil Jackson's team are the favorites in the West.
2. Boston Celtics: This has been one streaky team, but the reigning champs are still my pick to win the East. The Big 3 has continued their brilliant play, but it has been the unexpected productivity of the bench, led by Glen Davis and Eddie House, that has kept the Celtics amongst the elite teams in the NBA.
3. Cleveland Cavaliers: Boston should definitely be worried about the Cavs, however. King James has found his wingman in Mo Williams, and it is mighty difficult to beat Mike Brown's team at Quicken Loans Arena.
4. San Antonio Spurs: The veteran Spurs are just gliding along, as they always do in the regular season. But come playoff time, Tony Parker, Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobli, and surprise performer Roger Mason will be back in the championship discussion.
5. Orlando Magic: When Jameer Nelson went down, you could almost hear the air being sucked out of Amway Arena. However, The Celtics and Cavaliers cannot afford to overlook this very dangerous team.

THE BOTTOM FIVE

1. Sacramento Kings: Firing coach Reggie Theus only a few months into the season was laughable, as if he was the problem. The Kings have talent in the likes of Kevin Martin and Francisco Garcia, but this is a dismal team far removed from the Chris Webber/Vlade Divac glory days.
2. Memphis Grizzlies: Much like the Kings, firing coach Marc Iavaroni was an idiotic decision. Judging by the Iavaroni dismissal, and last year's baffling Pau Gasol trade, it looks like the front office for the Grizz has no interest in winning.
3. Los Angeles Clippers: Oh, Donald Sterling, how the hell do you still have a job? The Clips have a loyal fan base, but they remain a laughingstock.
4. Oklahoma City Thunder: The Thunder have a dismal record, and they are years away from from being a winning franchise. However, they have far more talent and play with far more heart than any of the above three teams, with a budding star in Kevin Durant.
5. Washington Wizards: I saw this team in person last month when they were in Oakland to take on my beloved Warriors. They looked about as lifeless as a CPR dummy. Antawn Jamison and DeShaun Stevenson provide the occasional spark, but the Wizards are once again struggling without Agent Zero.

The Storyline to watch in the second half.................................

The fate of Amare: It appears that Steve Kerr has every intention of trading away Amare Stoudamire. First of all, this would be a disastrous move by the Suns, completely eliminating their already questionable chances of making the playoffs. Stoudamire is one of the game's finest talents, and shipping him away would be one of the ten dumbest moves in NBA history. But if he is going to be traded, what teams would benfit most from his arrival? Surely, if Amare were to land in Cleveland alongside LeBron, the Cavs have to be considered the obvious frontrunners in the East. But I'd say the Detroit Pistons are the team most in need of Amare Stoudamire. The Allen Iverson trade has not worked out well for the Pistons, and Michael Curry's team has looked surprisingly flat at The Palace of Auburn Hills, a place that used provide a spectacular home court advantage for Detroit. If Joe Dumars acquires Stoudamire, Detroit is once again in the championship hunt.

The Marion-O'Neal trade: Today, the Miami Heat sent Shawn Marion to Toronto in exchange for Jermaine O'Neal. Erik Spoelstra's Heat are an infinitely better team than the disappointing Raptors, and Dwayne Wade and Jermaine O'Neal will make for a potent duo if O'Neal can stay healthy. Then again, so do Shawn Marion and Chris Bosh. The trade is a win for the Heat, but I think the Raptors will start to play better basketball with Bosh and Marion running the show.

And just for fun, here are predictions for tomorrow night's festivities: Kapono 3-peats in the three-point shootout, Joe Johnson wins H.O.R.S.E., and Dwight Howard repeats as Slam Dunk champion. On Sunday night, look for the East to squeak by the West.

King James bests Prince Kobe at the Garden, leaving no doubt as to who's better

They say that in order to be an all-time great, you must have a signature performance in the most famous basketball arena in the world, Madison Square Garden. Whether it be Michael Jordan lighting up the Knicks or Reggie Miller giving the choke signal to Spike Lee, the Big Apple has been a place where stars shine. On Monday night, Kobe and the Lakers came to town, and Bryant scored a whopping 61 points. The Knickerbocker faithful chanted "MVP!!! MVP!!!", loving the fact that Mr. Selfishness was once again acting like a one man team. Little did they know that two nights later, LeBron James would be even greater, making the stat page look like a video game: 52 points, 11 assists, and 10 rebounds. It's the biggest triple-double in thirty years, and King James kept New York fans hoping and praying that he suits up for the Knicks in 2010. The water-cooler debate in the sports world today is which superstar turned in the better performance, as if it was even close.

Yes, scoring 61 is awfully impressive, a remarkable feat that can only be accomplished by an incredibly gifted athlete. Never have I denied the fact that Kobe is a world-class talent, as I am constantly wowed by his stunning athleticism and amazing scoring ability; I've simply said that he is not a team player. Just look at the rest of Kobe's line on Monday night. Along with the 61 points, Kobe had zero rebounds and three assists. Apparently Kobe "me-first" Bryant thinks he plays for the Harlem Globetrotters, not the Los Angeles Lakers.

LeBron, on the other hand, is a world-class athlete who understands that there is no I in team. Sure, LeBron came out last night looking to score, mindful of what Kobe had done two nights earlier. However, even when he adopts an offensively aggressive mindset, he still manages to produce 11 assists and 10 rebounds. Yes, his game has flaws, and LeBron is especially mediocre at the free throw line. But make no mistake about it, LeBron James is the closest thing that we will ever see to His Airness.

Kobe Bryant, meanwhile, is one of the most phenomenal scorers in NBA history. But he needs to realize that true greatness requires you to involve those around you.

(Kobe and LeBron face one another this Sunday at Quicken Loans Arena, as the Cavs look to maintain their home perfection. The last matchup between these two teams was won by the Lakers, though neither Kobe nor LeBron had great games.)

Previewing Christmas Day Action in the NBA

Santa was good to NBA fans this year, as he has blessed us with five games on Christmas Day. Here are my previews of tomorrow's matchups:

• New Orleans Hornets @ Orlando Magic

The day tips off with this stellar game featuring two of the best young talents the NBA has ever seen: Chris Paul and Dwight Howard. Paul has eclipsed Steve Nash as the best point guard in the league, and he looks to keep his remarkable streak of consecutive games with a steal alive (the streak now stands at 108). Dwight Howard is the best center in the league, an incredibly intimidating specimen and a freakish athlete who is also one of the most charismatic players in the NBA. Chris Paul and Dwight Howard both make for exciting must-see viewing, but they are going to need the help of their teammates if they want to walk away with a Christmas victory.

At point guard for Orlando, Jameer Nelson does not need a Chris Paul-like performance, but he needs to have a productive game if the Magic are to win. Byron Scott's Hornets are likely to pour the vast majority of their defensive attention to Howard, so it's up to Nelson to feed guys like Hedo Turkoglu, J.J. Reddick, and Mickael Pietrus. If the three is falling for Turkoglu and Reddick, Stan Van Gundy's Magic have the upper hand. For New Orleans, it's key for David West and Tyson Chandler to have big games, especially if Chris Paul is constantly being double-teamed. The x-factor off the bench is James Posey. He is that rare bench player who has the ability to take over a game.

Both New Orleans and Orlando have championship aspirations. The Magic have looked like true contenders this season, while the Hornets have not yet reached their full potential. Both teams will be eager to prove something tomorrow. The Hornets want to prove that they belong in the title conversation. With the Celtics playing later in the afternoon, the Magic want to send a message that they should be considered a serious threat in dethroning the defending champs. It should be a fun one at Amway Arena.

• San Antonio Spurs @ Phoenix Suns

This is the best rivalry in the NBA. These two teams hate each other, and that hate has produced phenomenal playoff series in recent years. Whether it be Robert Horry body-checking Steve Nash into the scorers table, Nash getting his nose bloodied in a collision with Tony Parker, or Amare Stoudamire talking trash, there is always something to talk about when these two meet, and the games are almost always hotly contested. However, the Spurs have experienced the most success. Walking into this game, Tim Duncan and the Spurs have the psychological advantage. It is important for Phoenix to get a win on its home court to provide them with much-needed swagger.

The 2008 Spurs are just like the championship Spurs of the past-----going about their business and winning, all while being completely overlooked. They have battled through injuries (Tony Parker and Manu Ginobli), but San Antonio sits comfortably with a record of 18-10. This is a testament to the brilliance of Gregg Popovich, the best coach in the NBA. No other team in the league is better prepared. Another reason why the Spurs remain one of the NBA's great teams is the strong play of Matt "the red rocket" Bonner and Roger Mason. Their productivity was hugely important when Tony Parker and Manu Ginobli were injured. And of course, there is always Tim Duncan, who is a double-double waiting to happen every time he steps onto the court.

The Suns have hit some bumps in the road this season under new coach Terry Porter, and at times they still look like they are having an identity crisis. But Phoenix has played well of late, and newly acquired Jason Richardson has bolstered the team with increased energy. When Richardson came aboard, the Suns started to play with great spirit, and they now look more like the high-octane Suns teams under Mike D'Antoni. Steve Nash may have declined slightly, but he is still a terrific point guard who effectively involves his teammates with effortless ease. And Amare Stoudamire, one of the best big men in the league, is having a superb season. When all is said and done, Phoenix will have a shot at another playoff run.

• Boston Celtics @ Los Angeles Lakers

This is the main event, one of the most highly anticipated regular season games ever. When David Stern scheduled this Finals rematch for Christmas Day, he knew that this was going to be a fantastic game, but even the commissioner couldn't have seen things working out this beautifully. Kobe and company, much to my dismay as a Laker hater, are 21-5, are clearly playing better than any other Western conference team. Their defense, though, has been inconsistent, and this game is an opportunity for Phil Jackson's team to prove to their skeptics that they have what it takes to win a championship. A win against the Celtics would be extremely impressive.

But it will not happen. The defending champion Celtics (27-2) are playing at an unprecedented level, and they will secure their 20th consecutive win at the Staples Center. The Big 3 of Kevin Garnett, Ray Allen, and Paul Pierce continue to perform marvelously, but the supporting cast has been the most delightfully surprising part of Boston's success. When James Posey departed for New Orleans, many believed that the Celtics' supporting cast would take a step back. Yet Rajon Rondo, Kendrick Perkins, Leon Powe, Tony Allen, and Glen Davis have exceeded all expectations. If the Celtics repeat as champs, Doc Rivers' team will be in the discussion for greatest single-season team of all time.

I cannot wait to tune in to what should be a wildly entertaining affair.

• Washington Wizards @ Cleveland Cavaliers

Here we have two teams at opposite ends of the spectrum. It has been a season to forget for the lowly Wizards. Without Gilbert Arenas, Washington has looked lifeless, leading to the firing of coach Eddie Jordan. Interim head coach Ed Tapscott initially injected Caron Butler, Antawn Jamison and company with some life, but that was short-lived. They will be a lottery flop.

Cleveland, on the other hand, has been playing sensational basketball, second only to the Celtics in the East. LeBron James finally has a great team around him, and offseason acquisition Mo Williams has been a perfect fit in Mike Brown's system. The Cavs have even shown resiliency, as when they continued to win during the distractions caused by the LeBron to the Knicks rumors. Like Orlando, the Cavs are determined to send a message to the league that they have every intention of challenging the Celtics for Eastern Conference supremacy.

So on paper, this game looks like a blowout, but don't be shocked if the Wizards keep it tight. Like the Suns and Spurs, these two teams have a heated history in the playoffs. That bad blood could provide for a dramatic, down-to-the-wire nail biter. But it will be extremely difficult for the Wizards to walk out of Quicken Loans Arena with a W.

• Dallas Mavericks @ Portland Trail Blazers

The final game of the night is an intriguing clash between a group of veterans and a group of youngsters. Rick Carlisle's Mavs have missed Devin Harris this season, but Jason Terry and Dirk Nowitzki are still hoping to play deep into May. Portland has been the surprise of the year, with Brandon Roy and Rudy Fernandez catapulting Nate McMillan's Blazers to the top of the Western conference standings.

But the jury is still out on both teams. Will the Mavericks make a move in the West, or will they be fighting for their playoff lives in April? Will Greg Oden consistently look like a number one draft pick, or will Oden be the second coming of Derrick Coleman? Can Jason Kidd play like the Jason Kidd of old? Can the Blazers sustain their winning pace? It will take some time before the answers to these questions are revealed, but tomorrow night will provide us with a glimpse of what to expect.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! Enjoy the basketball that tomorrow has to offer!

2008-2009 NBA PREVIEW

Hoops is back, and I'm giddy with excitement. In order of predicted finish, here are my conference previews:

WESTERN CONFERENCE

1. New Orleans Hornets/ Coach: Byron Scott/ Key Player: Chris Paul

Look out, here come the Hornets. As great as they were last year, New Orleans will be even better this season, finishing with the best record in the NBA. Chris Paul will be the league's MVP, and the addition of proven winner James Posey means that the Hornets are the team to beat in the West.

2. Utah Jazz/ Coach: Jerry Sloan/ Key Player: Deron Williams

All the credit goes to the aforementioned Chris Paul, and deservedly so, but teams overlook Deron Williams at their own peril. D-Will is one of the game's most spectacular players. The Jazz are a brutally physical team, thanks to the effective post presence of Carlos Boozer and Mehmet Okur. Say what you want about Jerry Sloan's style, but there is no denying the fact that all Sloan does is win.

3. Phoenix Suns/ Coach: Terry Porter/ Key Player: Shaquille O'Neal

With Mike D'Antoni no longer roaming the sidelines, the Suns probably won't run-and-gun as much as they used to. However, Terry Porter's team will follow a similar recipe. With Steve Nash running the show, and if a healthy Shaq dominates the paint, Phoenix will once again enjoy great regular season success. As for the playoffs, well, as Suns fans can attest, that usually is a different story.

4. Los Angeles Lakers/ Coach: Phil Jackson/ Key Player: Kobe Bryant

What do I want to happen? I want the Lakers to fall flat on their faces and have a disastrous season. What do I think will happen? I think they'll be very good, but not as great as advertised. Too much is being expected of Andrew Bynum. After all, how do we know he won't be rusty?

5. San Antonio Spurs/ Coach: Gregg Popovich/ Key Player: Tim Duncan

San Antonio remains the best team in Texas, and Popovich is one of the best coaches the game has ever seen. But these Spurs are aging. The starting five of Parker, Duncan, Finley, Bowen, and Oberto is too disciplined and talented for the Spurs to miss the playoffs. However, I see an early playoff exit in San Antonio's future.

6. Golden State Warriors/ Coach: Don Nelson/ Key Player: Al Harrington

Yes, I am a biased homer, but allow me to explain my reasoning. Sure, the absence of Monta Ellis until January is a big blow, but it's a blow we can overcome. Andris Biedrins will continue to be a rebounding machine, Ronny Turiaf will contribute big numbers off the bench, Stephen Jackson will continue to be deserving of the term "captain", Corey Maggette will be a welcome surprise, and Al Harrington will turn in his best season as a Warrior. Let's not also forget that outstanding Oracle Arena crowd. DeMarcus Nelson and C.J. Watson will do a great job of running the show until Monta returns in January. No Baron, no problem. GO WARRIORS!

7. Houston Rockets/ Coach:Rick Adleman/ Key Player: Ron Artest

Artest seems confident that his new team will be hoisting the Larry O'Brien trophy in June. Not so fast. However, the Artest-McGrady duo will carry Houston to the playoffs. And if the Rockets once again are defeated in the opening round, the blame should not fall in T-Mac's lap.


8. Dallas Mavericks/ Coach: Rick Carlisle/ Key Player: Jason Kidd

Dallas made a big mistake when they fired Avery Johnson. Rick Carlisle, though, will do a commendable job. Contrary to popular belief, Jason Kidd is still a terrific player. And although I'm not the biggest fan of Dirk Nowitzki, the guy is productive. The big question mark hanging over Mark Cuban's team is Josh Howard. Can he stay away from controversy?

9. Portland Trail Blazers/ Coach: Nate McMillan/ Key Player: Greg Oden

Count me amongst those who are not convinced that Greg Oden will turn the Blazers into instant contenders. Oden was fantastic in his lone year under Thad Matta at Ohio State, but how do we know that Oden can bounce back from last year's injury and be successful in the NBA. With this being said, however, Portland will be a decent team. Brandon Roy is one of the game's most exciting young talents, and the Blazers will contend for that final playoff spot, only to fall just a little short.

10. Denver Nuggets/ Coach: George Karl/ Key Player: Carmelo Anthony

I have the highest respect for Nene. To battle back from cancer and earn a spot in the starting lineup is an amazing feat. For this, Nene deserves every one's admiration. But Nene will not be able to replace Marcus Camby, who is now sporting Clipper red. As great as Iverson and Anthony are, George Karl's Nuggets will suffer in the absence of Camby, who for the last few years has been Denver's only defensive master.

11. Sacramento Kings/ Coach: Reggie Theus/ Key Player: Kevin Martin

Kevin Martin is one of the most underrated players in the NBA, and Reggie Theus is one of the most underrated coaches. The Kings will be entertaining, especially when they feed off the Arco Arena energy. But as the season wears on, Sacramento will really begin to miss Ron Artest.

12. Los Angeles Clippers/ Coach: Mike Dunleavy/ Key Player: Baron Davis

In the East, the Clips would have a chance. But outside of Baron and Marcus Camby, the Clippers are ill-equipped in the West. Al Thornton has great promise, but he is a year or two a way from reaching his full potential. Oh yeah, and Baron, you will regret your decision to leave Oakland.

13. Memphis Grizzlies/ Coach: Marc Iavoroni/ Key Player: O.J. Mayo

Mayo's flashy style worked wonders at USC, but will it work in the NBA? Will Marc Gasol be half as good as his brother? Will Darko Millicic ever stop being a punchline? The Grizzlies surely hope the answers to these three questions are yes, yes, and yes, but I wouldn't be surprised if the answers are no, no, and no.

14. Minnesota Timberwolves/ Coach: Randy Wittman/ Key Player: Al Jefferson

Jefferson is superb, but the T'Wolves are still suffering from Kevin Garnett withdrawal symptoms. At this point, Kevin McHale is wishing and hoping that he too was back in Boston.

15. Oklahoma City Thunder/ Coach: P.J. Carlesimo/ Key Player: Kevin Durant

Outside of Oklahoma City, where the fan support will be tremendous, the Thunder will go completely unnoticed. They will still be referred to as the Sonics. Bottom line: it will be a rough first year for this young team.

EASTERN CONFERENCE

1. Boston Celtics/ Coach: Doc Rivers/ Key Player: Kevin Garnett

The East will be far more more competitive this year, but the defending champs still have a great chance at a repeat. The Big 3 of Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, and Ray Allen show no signs of slowing down. Rajon Rondo and Kendrick Perkins have matured a year, and they will be evn better than they were last season. The loss of James Posey to New Orleans hurts Boston's bench, but it won't make too much of a difference. The Celtics will be back in the Finals.

2. Orlando Magic/ Coach: Stan Van Gundy/ Key Player: Dwight Howard

At first glance, the Magic lineup is not that intimidating. However, Orlando epitomizes teamwork. Together, they are a legitimate contender in the East. Jameer Nelson is a solid point guard, Hedo Turkoglu is lights out from downtown, Mickael Pietrus is the kind of scrappy player that all teams would love to have, and Rashard Lewis, although overpaid, is a scoring threat every time he steps onto the floor. There's also this guy by the name of Dwight Howard. I'm not sure if you've heard of him. He's only the best center in basketball.

3. Cleveland Cavaliers/ Coach: Mike Brown/ Key Player: Mo Williams

What??? Have I lost my mind??? How can I not have LeBron as Cleveland's key player??? Calm down, folks. LeBron is the best player in the world. He is the leader of the Cavs. There is no doubt about that. In order for Cleveland to have any shot at a championship, however, King James is going to need some help. That help comes from newly acquired Mo Williams. The former Milwaukee Buck must have an all-star caliber year alongside LeBron if the Cavs want to be playing in June.

4. Detroit Pistons/ Coach: Michael Curry/ Key Player: Chauncey Billups

Chauncey, Rip, Tayshaun, Rasheed, and company have their sights on winning another championship. You can't help but wonder, though, if their window has already closed. One thing is for sure: Rodney Stuckey will emerge as the Pistons' secret weapon.

5. Philadelphia 76ers/ Coach: Mo Cheeks/ Key Player: Elton Brand

Philly will be much improved, thanks in large part to the offseason acquisition of Elton Brand. Brand joins an already dangerous lineup that features the explosive likes of Andre Iguodala and Samuel Dalembert. If Brand can stay healthy, the Sixers will contend.

6. Miami Heat/ Coach: Erik Spoelstra/ Key Player: Dwayne Wade

Basketball in South Beach will be awfully fun to watch this season. With a new duo (D-Wade and Michael Beasley), and a new coach calling the shots (Erik Spoelstra), the Heat will add to the party atmosphere in Miami. But the fun will likely end in the first round of the playoffs, when the Heat will struggle without an effective big man.

7. Toronto Raptors/ Coach: Sam Mitchell/ Key Player: Jermaine O'Neal

The biggest question regarding this promising team is the health of Jermaine O'Neal. After being sidelined for most of last season, can he return to his old self? I say yes. Add Chris Bosh to the mix, and Toronto is a trendy dark horse pick in the Eastern conference.

8. Atlanta Hawks/ Coach: Mike Woodson/ Key Player: Josh Smith

These Hawks are still on a high after their impressive showing against the Celtics this past April. When the euphoria dies down, Mike Woodson's team will realize that they will be in a fight for that eighth and final spot in the East. Chances are they win that fight, thanks to young stars Josh Smith, Marvin Williams, and Al Horford.

9. Washington Wizards/ Coach: Eddie Jordan/ Key Player: Antawn Jamison

Gilbert Arenas is plagued with a serious knee injury for the second consecutive season. Last year, the Wizards managed to win in the absence of Agent Zero. This year will be different. The East is no longer Junior Varsity, and the Wizards will be on the outside looking in at season's end.

10. Chicago Bulls/ Coach: Vinny Del Negro/ Key Player: Derrick Rose

Derrick Rose will be a star in this league for many years to come, and he will quickly find his way into Vinny Del Negro's starting lineup. Unfortunately for the Bulls, Rose will be one of few bright spots during what will be a frustrating season. New coach, same disappointment for the Bulls.

11. New York Knicks/ Coach: Mike D'Antoni/ Key Player: Zach Randolph

If nothing else, Mike D'Antoni will at least make the Knicks relevant again. New York will have some trouble adapting to D'Antoni's fast pace system, but D'Antoni is the right guy at the right time for the Knicks. They won't be good, but they will be improved.

12. Milwaukee Bucks/ Coach: Scott Skiles/ Key Player: Michael Redd

The Bucks may have lost Mo Williams, but the addition of Richard Jefferson will suffice. Michael Redd one of the most overlooked players in the game, and he will continue to be overlooked if the Bucks continue to lose. And unless Andrew Bogut and Charlie Villanueva show drastic improvement, losing for Scott Skiles' team seems very probable.

13. Indiana Pacers/ Coach: Jim O'Brien/ Key Player: T.J. Ford

The Jermaine O'Neal-T.J. Ford trade was a win-win deal for the Pacers and Raptors, but only Toronto will see instant results. The Pacers are still stuck in the world of mediocrity. Danny Granger and Mike Dunleavy are very good, but they strike no fear in anybody. Like Kevin McHale, Larry Bird wishes he was back in Boston.

Charlotte Bobcats/ Coach: Larry Brown/ Key Player: Emeka Okafor

Why, oh why, did Hall of Famer Larry Brown take this job? I know the Bobcats have talent in the likes of Ray Felton, Emeka Okafor, and Jason Richardson, and I know that Larry Brown shares the North Carolina connection with Michael Jordan, now a member of the Bobcats front office. But honestly, this season will be sadly similar to Larry Brown's lone season as coach of the Knicks three years ago.

15. New Jersey Nets/ Coach: Lawrence Frank/ Key Player: Vince Carter

Yi Jinlian is a star in China, but he was unimpressive in his first NBA season with Milwaukee. He'll be better this year, but the Nets will be the worst team in the East. As a result of the Nets' poor season, Vince Carter will be traded.

So there are my predictions. Let the games begin!

Five guys who might see a change of scenery, as jarring as that would be.

All signs pointed to Elton Brand finishing his career as a Clipper. Now, he is a Sixer. Nobody thought His Airness would wind up playing anywhere other than the Windy City. He ended his illustrious career in a Wizards uniform. And Jerry Rice never looked right in Raiders and Seahawks jerseys. Now there are grumblings regarding the chance Brett Favre returns to play for a team not named Packers, though we can dismiss that as strictly rumor amidst all the exhausting Favre hoopla. The following athletes are beloved by their respective cities and each are closely associated with their respective franchises. However, these players might see a change of scenery sometime soon, following in the footsteps of Brand, Jordan, and Rice. With no further ado, they are.........

LeBron James: LeBron and the Cavs were a match made in heaven. He was born and raised in Ohio, so it was only fitting that King James was drafted by Cleveland. But make no mistake about it, he wants to play in New York. After all, he has alienated Cavs fans by saying New York City is his favorite city and by donning a Yankees cap at a Cleveland Indians playoff game against the Yankees. Cleveland will never forgive him for leaving, but expect to find LeBron in the Big Apple by 2010.

Ken Griffey, Jr.: This one could happen as soon as this season. Griffey loves Cincinnati, and Cincinnati loves Griffey. However, Junior has a burning desire to play for a contender, and he craves a World Series title. If Griffey wants his dream to be realized, he has to leave the Reds, as they are nowhere near championship status. Cincy GM Walt Jocketty understands this, and do not be surprised to see Ken Griffey, Jr. shipped to a contender like the Rays or Mets.

Kobe Bryant: Dismiss this as far-fetched if you wish, but I just do not think Kobe "me first" Bryant is done whining. Sure, the Lakers are fresh off a Finals appearance, but Bryant is the most petulant athlete around. If the Lakers are not as good as advertised, Kobe will request another trade. If Andrew Bynum fails to live up to the hype, Kobe will request another trade. There is no team in Kobe (Sorry, I just had to let out my daily vent. Now I'll return to my genial self).

Jason Taylor: Forget Jack Lemmon and Walter Matthau. The real odd couple is Jason Taylor and Bill Parcells. The Big Tuna, who now calls the shots in the front office for the Fish, has publicly expressed his displeasure in Taylor's participation on "Dancing with the Stars". Taylor has said he's cool with the Dolphins, but it is not difficult to see what is really going through Taylor's mind. Deep down, he wants to take his sacks elsewhere. There is just too much tension for Taylor to thrive in South Beach.

Jason Varitek: Varitek has been tremendous for the Boston Red Sox, just not this year. While he still calls a good game behind the plate, his productivity at the plate has been dwindling. He now bats a measly .220, and even Varitek says he does not belong in the All Star game. There is still a good chance the Red Sox captain will get his act together. He better improve sooner or later, before Theo Epstein turns the reigns over to youngster Kevin Cash, forcing Varitek to find another home.

My apologies to Cleveland, Cincinnati, Boston, Miami, and Los Angeles. These cities do not want to see their guys depart. I'm not saying the five athletes I mentioned should start packing immediately. I just recommend they keep a suitcase handy, just in case.