East:
It’s Cavs against the rest. Looks like Garnett may not be able to play, or in 80% of his full ability. Magics are dangerous if they are hot for a few games, which they can beat any team when their 3s are falling. One team to watch is Heats, I am not sure if they can win with only Wade but who knows, remember 3 yrs ago with his superman-like performance. Though I am not sure if they win a 7 games series without a decent big. Hawks are both still pretty young but they may be a surprise team this year who may go deep into the playoff.

West:
Too bad Manu is out for the season, but I am not sure if they can win even with him being healthy. Duncan is getting old and half a step slower. I like Jazz a lot but they need to win a round or two to get hot, it is unfortunate that they need to face Lakers in the first round. The dark horse here is the Trailblazers, they are the team who may have a chance to beat Lakers in 7 games. I like to see Yao to win a playoff series without TMac but Rockets may not even be able to beat Portland.

All in all, this year looks predictable, with Cavs and Lakers the super heavy favors to go to the final. Both teams can beat you in multiple ways: offense, defense, rebound, 3 pointers, everything and both teams play with a swagger. But playoff is all about the birth of a superstar who will do anything in his power to win games. Wade in 2006, Tony Parker in 2007 and Paul Pierce in 2008.

One more thing, I hate Kobe and Lakers, I wish any team, just any team, to beat them. However, they are one year wiser, better tested team. BUT… I think Cavs will win this year because of LBJ, he will be the super duper star who now has help (Mo and Joe Smith, I hope Ben Wallace can play). Of course, injuries change everything.

Cavs in 7!!!