The potential winner of the East is a lot clearer to predict but judging the competition in the West is a little more convoluted and difficult. Like any year the arch rivals have gathered once more in an attempt to summon their forces and become the best of the best. Minnesota Timberwolves, a team that has been dominant through the season is a favourite of many and it is hard to disagree when they have Kevin Garnett on their side. Garnett, the odds on favourite to be the leagues Most Valuable Player, is not just an ordinary centre. He can play an assortment of different positions and gives his team what it needs to succeed over their competition. Denver Nuggets, a team that is fueled by heralded rookie Carmello Anthony, a fresh man who has done wonders for this underrated team, has the potential to upset a top team, but whether that will be enough will soon be determined by the Timberwolves.

The second match up in the West is the one of the Lakers and the Rockets. Both teams have a lot to offer and much to prove, but whether Yao Ming can do what is expected of him is really up to him. If he can handle Shaquile Oneal, the most dominant center ever to play basketball is something that Yao may have to work on for sometime. The Rockets also have to worry about Kobe Bryant and his Nitrogen Oxide aided fourth quarters.

The San Antonio Spurs, the current World Champions are once again stacked from top to bottom. However, with the unexpected knee injury that has benched Tim Duncan, will be the determining factor whether they will gain the honor of getting another ring. This lingering injury ahs affected his performance down the stretch and his absence, if there is one, leaves them in a tough spot to maneuver out of. Otherwise the underdogs from Memphis, who have surprised many by making it this far, may be able to qualify for the next round of the playoffs.

Lastly the match up between the Kings and the Mavericks is truly the highlight and a matchup that is hard to ignore. The Kings, who have Peja Stojakovic, arguably the best three point shooter in the NBA, also have Vlade Divac an aging but experienced centre. On the other hand though Dirk Nowitizki and Steve Nash pose an immediate threat to anyone in the NBA. Nowitizki’s ability to shoot despite his formidable height, makes him a true competitor. Combine that with Nash’s high speed and passing ability and you have a nuclear combination.

After all of the smoke clears, I predict the Lakers or the Spurs will survive to go up against the Pacers in the finals. In the end, I would have to put my money on the Lakers. With their experience and ability, all they need for another win is some motivation and determination, which I think has been brought to them by veterans Karl Malone and Gary Payton, both of whom have never won an NBA title. Just by looking at their starting line up one can predict to see them in the finals. It is my prediction that the Lakers will rock you. However, in saying that, what looks good on paper can often be misleading to the eye.