It's that time of year again for my cousin Mirko, his best friend Lubo, and I to put our money where our mouths are with annual NBA teams.  Well, no money but lots of bragging rights on the line.

2007-2008 Recap: I was unfortunately correct last year as I predicted a Celtics victory in the Finals.

2008-2009 Outlook: The Lakers make up for their poor performance in Game 6 of the Finals and take it home this year.


Eastern Conference:
1. Boston Celtics
2. Orlando Magic
3. Detroit Pistons
4. Cleveland Cavaliers
5. Atlanta Hawks
6. Philadelphia 76ers
7. Chicago Bulls
8. Toronto Raptors

Dark Horse: Indiana Pacers, Washington Wizards, NJ Nets.

Conference Champion: Celtics

Western Conference:
1. Los Angeles Lakers
2. New Orleans Hornets
3. Utah Jazz
4. Phoenix Suns
5. Houston Rockets
6. Dallas Mavericks
7. San Antonio Spurs
8. Portland Trailblazers

Dark Horse: Golden State, Minnesota Timberwolves, LA Clippers.

Conference Champion: Lakers

NBA Champion: Lakers


Local Teams: It's a mixed bag for our local teams this year.  You can't get more painful than the Knicks' 23 wins.  I have a call into Heather Locklear for some pain killers and a date. 

Seriously, I like Coach D'Antoni and his up tempo style.  He doesn't have the players he wants/needs yet (Lebron and/or D-Wade) but the team seems energized.  Everyone wants to move on from the post-Isiah Thomas era.

Knicks: 34 wins.

The Nets made lots of changes in the off-season.  Nenad Kristic signed with a Russian team.  I can't believe that Vince Carter is starting his tenth season in the NBA.  The Nets success will depend upon the success of rookie Chris Douglas-Roberts.  If the newcomers can adjust and gell, the Nets can make a run at the playoffs.

Nets: 32 wins.

Posted by an psyched Tank in NY.