I'm guessing that you don't subscribe to the addage that "defense wins championships".

I see no lower seed upsets happening in the East, with the possible exception of the Orlando/Atlanta series.

Bulls v. Pacers - Bulls sweep.

Knicks v. Celtics - As much as the Knicks have a cetain amount of star appeal, I feel their team discipline cannot match Boston.  If the Knicks, however, shoot lights out, it would be due to the fact that they are a bit quicker at the skill positions, making it harder for the Celtics to close out on the perimeter.  If the Knicks were to keep games close, their free throw shooting is fabulous (Billups, Anthony, and Stoudemire are all real good at the line).  All that said, Celtics in 6; Pierce would love to close it out at MSG.

Heat v. 76ers - IMO, the Heat are the dark horse in the race.  Not sure if Spoolstra can keep them focused.  Collins has the 76ers playing well, but they may just be a bit short on talent and depth.  Heat in 5.

Magic v. Hawks - coin flip, I am hoping for Orlando.

Round 2 - Bulls over Orlando, because I really want to see Howard defeated at the hands of Rose.  Bulls in 6.  Heat over Celtics as home court advantage plays a big factor in this series.  Heat in 7.

East Finals - This series will really show the disparity in coaching.  Spoolstra will always be reacting, while Thibedeau will have his team prepared in every possible way.  Bulls in 5.


My exposure to the West is a little shaky, but this were the talent level is pretty evenly matched making it bit more difficult to predict.

Grizzlies v. Spurs - Spurs are good, no questions asked.  Memphis will give them a run, but will fall in the end.  Spurs in 5.

Hornets v. Lakers - Lakers sweep.

Mavs v. Blazers - Mavs better watch out, cause the Blazers can give them a really tough match up.  Roy, Aldridge and Co. will not be enough, however for Dirk and Terry.  Mavs in 6.

Nuggets v. Thunder - this one is a coin flip too.  I see the Nuggets amiimng it inot the second round, just to stick it to Melo.  Nuggets in 7.

Round 2 - Lakers are too good for the Mavs. Lakers in 5.  Spurs are too crafty of a veteran team for the "greeen" Nuggets.  Spurs in 5.

West Finals - Lakers sweep, smelling the three-peat, knowing that the Bulls are waiting for them on the other side.

FINALS - Bulls v. Lakers - sit back and enjoy the show, becuase the NBA is back in full force.  My heart says Bulls ... but my mind knows that this is a big man's game.  Odom is the X factor for the Lakers.  Bulls bench is the X factor for the Bulls.  Bulls bring it back home to win in 6 or 7 ...