The playoff seeds are not yet set; but it's an interesting discussion to start now!
Just some thoughts off the top of my head:
Just some thoughts off the top of my head:
- The Spurs are the deepest team I've seen in a long time. I know that that doesn't necessarily mean a whole lot in terms of playoff rotations when teams are only using an 8 man rotation. But it does mean a couple things still. First, they've taken advantage of their depth to potentially get the one seed while playing key players limited minutes. Second, it means that injuries won't hurt them as much as the next team. It'd still be hard to see them winning it all though w/o The Big Three healthy.
-- - Although the Heat have so much athleticism that they can somewhat defy the conventional wisdom of having strong bigs; I have to believe the odds are against them even with Stern pulling all his punches (inevitably). They can win the weaker East for sure though. So it would depend on who they match-up with from The West.
-- - I think the Bulls are a bit hyped but I have been taking them more seriously in recent weeks and I do think they are the best team in the East. I do like that they gel as a team. They are fun to watch. But personally, I don't like Rose or Noah so I personally won't be rooting for them.
-- - The Celtics are the third team from the East with a real shot. I'll lay it out on the table. I'm a C's fan so that's my bias. But ever since Doc inserted Avery Bradley into the starting line-up the defensive intensity has returned. They have all the types of pieces and experience needed. Their achilles heel is rebounding though.
I could see them beating the Heat or the Bulls; but both would probably be a stretch. So hopefully one of them gets upset from my C's fan P.O.V.
But the C's often play down to their competition. So before it even gets to that, they'll have their hands full with the freaking Hawks who suck. But still Boston will find a way to keep them in games.
-- - I like watching the OKC Thunder come playoff time b/c they're exciting. But I have to agree with Shaq. They rely entirely too much on jump shooting. That could hurt them especially if they play a quick team with good perimeter defenders. The Grizzlies or Clippers come to mind.
-- - Speaking of the Grizzlies and Clippers; I tend to think that neither of them will make it to the conference finals. They are fun to watch though.
-- - I am disappointed that the 4 v 5 Clippers vs. Lakers match-up did not occur. That would have been epic. Kobe is so jealous of the new kids on the block lol.
-- - The eight seed is not yet set in the West. This game between Phx and Utah looks like do or die. Phoenix is pretty weak. I think the Spurs will be rooting for them. Houston, who is also in the chase for the last seed is looking dysfunctional. So I think the Spurs would like them too. I think Utah is a sleeper. But I don't think Harris can outplay Parker so it still won't matter.
