A quick pre-season look at the postseason, with predicted conference ranking and predicted record in parentheses.

WESTERN CONFERENCE

Lakers (#1, 57-25):  Best conference record against the West (37-15) says something, so let the dynasty begin.

New Orleans (#2, 56-26):  Surprising Hornets could be prime candidate for postseason letdown, but they're led by former Lakers champion Byron Scott, which says something.

San Antonio (#3, 56-26):  Many believe Spurs are old, but Manu Ginobili and Tony Parker aren't, so don't be surprised if defending champions reach conference finals.

Utah (#4, 54-28):  Jazz horrendous on the road all season long, but they won Game 7 in Houston a year ago with Derek Fisher on the roster, so we'll see what they're all about in the rematch.

Houston (#5, 55-27):  The value of the big man - if it weren't for Luis Scola and the ageless Dikembe Mutombo, the Rockets would be out and the Warriors would be in.

Phoenix (#6, 55-27):  Suns' poor head-to-head record against West playoff teams says a lot about their ability, or lack thereof, to compete with the best of 'em, but the arrival of Shaq and the re-emergence of Amare Stoudemire have made the Suns legitimate contenders once again.

Dallas (#7, 51-31):  Not that it's possible, but the Mavs could do to the Hornets this year what the Warriors did to the Mavs last year.

Denver (#8, 50-32):  It's obvious to me that Carmelo Anthony's desire to be in Denver in the future is not in his plans, as poorly timed DUI charge indicates, therefore Nuggets have zero chance of winning a game against the mighty Lakers.

EASTERN CONFERENCE

Boston (#1, 66-16):  Leading the league in defense and wins and 25-5 record against the Western Conference says something, so let the dynasty begin.

Detroit (#2, 58-24):  The Spurs of the East keep winning with balance and chemistry and they're deeper and younger, so don't be surprised if Pistons reach NBA Finals.

Orlando (#3, 52-30):  Magic have been better on the road than at home all season so home-court advantage in the first round could actually hurt them.

Cleveland (#4, 46-36):  Lebron of 2007-'08 looks like Kobe of 2005-'06, which means one-and-done in the postseason.

Washington (#5, 43-39):  The Nuggets of the East - all that talent and firepower but not enough in quality decision-making to win big games.

Philadelphia (#6, 41-41):  Even if overachieving Sixers get swept in the first round, young team has already made believers out of tough Philly fan base.

Toronto (#7, 41-41):  Underachieving team can't seem to solve point guard situation and Bargnani is a bust, which means Raptors will be one-and-done against the Pistons in the first round.

Atlanta (#8, 38-44):  Even if the Hawks were to pull off an upset and win game one of their series against Boston, they still don't have enough big-game experience to close out the Celtics in a seven-game series.

Conference Finals Prediction

West - Lakers over Spurs in six        East - Detroit over Boston in seven

NBA Finals Prediction

Lakers over Detroit in seven

In typical Hollywood fashion, the entire league was taken by storm when it was announced that former All-Star Pau Gasol had been traded to the rising Los Angeles Lakers. Once again the Lakers find a way to steal the spotlight at the right moment, in the midst of Super Bowl Weekend.

Around here in L.A., it was Super Brown Weekend. Thanks to Kwame, the purple and gold  might have just landed the missing ingredient it needs to become a contender for the NBA crown. Maybe the next time Kwame comes around to play against the Lakers in a Memphis uniform, the fans oughta give the guy a standing ovation.

Kudos to Lakers management. Taking a page out of the '95 Bulls, L.A. committs highway robbery much in the same way Chicago traded for All-Star Dennis Rodman by giving up only Will Perdue. As great as Michael Jordan was, he had his share of help to win another three titles. Who knows what could have happened had the Bulls failed to land The Worm? Now to see what Kobe can do with his team, which is primed and ready for big things. Will he equate the legendary Jordan? Will he surpass him or will he fall short of expectations?

I have three very key comments to say about how The Trade elevates the Lakers and how it changes the balance of power in the Western Conference.

1) Celtics of old leave a lasting impression on LA: Just when we think we're looking for Kobe's Pippen, the Lakers shift gears and add another low post threat. With Andrew Bynum and Pau Gasol, the Lakers have a very formidable frontline that is reminiscent of Boston's Robert Parish and Kevin McHale. I am not saying that Bynum and Gasol are as great as Parish and McHale. It is yet to be proven. What I'm implying is that the players' styles and tendencies are quite similar.

Bynum, like Parish, has excellent low post moves, commands a double team, is a decent free-throw shooter, an adequate rebounder, and changes shots. Gasol, like McHale, has an above-average mid range shot, can play with his back to the basket, grabs rebounds, plays intelligently, passes well out of double teams, and can block a shot or two. With Kobe Bryant playing Larry Legend and Derek Fisher providing the steadiness of a point guard much like Dennis J0hns0n, I have to say this Lakers team resembles the Celtics of the eighties.

If you still don't see it, you'll remember that Danny Ainge and Jerry Sichting were outside threats who were pests on defense, much like Farmar and Vujacic are for the Lakers. Gerald Henderson, Cedric Maxwell, and Scott Wedman had length and were above average defenders who could occasionally score when needed, much like Lamar Odom and Trevor Ariza. Brad Lohaus, Fred Roberts, and Greg Kite? Well, they were gritty, less-skilled players who never lacked heart and did all the dirty work, the same type of contributions that guys like Ronny Turiaf, Chris Mihm, and Luke Walton provide for L.A.  All in all, it's Twin Towers plus a great clutch player and a bunch of savvy role players who can play defense, hit outside shots, and above all, hustle.

2) Matchups: LA is so versatile all the way around that playoff teams are going to have major difficulties matching up. Four starters - Bryant, Odom, Bynum, and Gasol - can command a double-team in the low post at any given moment. The team's length defensively allows the Lakers to mix it up on defense. Eight players - Bryant, Odom, Ariza, Turiaf, Gasol, Vujacic, Radmanovic, and Farmar can play at least two positions. Championship teams of the past like Chicago, Houston, Showtime, and Detroit won titles because they had extremely versatile players who played more than one position, making it harder for opponents to adjust since their players were exploited on both sides of the court.

3) Balanced Options: The days are over where you can double Kobe and leave other players open. Each player fits a specific role. Kobe is the alpha-dog. Bynum is the intimidating presence in the lane. Gasol is the consistent low post scoring threat. Odom is the best fourth option the NBA has seen in years. Fisher is steadfast, tough, resilient, and the enforcer. Ariza is your defensive lockdown player off the bench. Farmar is the leader of the second unit. Turiaf brings the energy. Radmanovic and Vujacic are three-point specialists. Walton gives you just about everything with minimal mistakes. Mihm is the best fourth string big man on the planet. And with sufficient playoff experience this team will be hard to beat, whether they finish third, fifth or eighth.

With the February 21 trade deadline fast approaching, rumors are abound. I have done some speculating and analysis, a little bit of ESPN Trade Machine, a lot of daily reading, had conversations with others who claim to be sources, but mostly introspective discussions with my left and right brains.

Feel free to critique the following trade scenarios, but I will remind you beforehand...

Back on February 2007, I wrote a piece that had this as part of the title: "Pau Gasol - Future Laker." And the day before the trade (right after the loss to the Pistons), I called in to a local sports radio show and proposed that LA should be going after Pau Gasol and Stromile Swift from the Grizzlies for either Kwame or Lamar and draft picks because I had a very strong feeling that Memphis was looking to unload salary and go in another direction considering they're season is just about done. Which is why when the trade was announced early Friday morning, I was the least bit surprised that it was indeed Gasol whom the Lakers acquired as I sat through my day long meeting with twenty of my colleagues. BTW, the talk show hosts responded to me by saying the Grizzlies would NEVER go for the deal.

Anyway, enough about the LAKERS. A number of players around the league are rumored to be dealt within the next three weeks. The prime candidates...

JASON KIDD, NJ:  Most of the talk has been centered around the Dallas Mavericks, but I would be mildly surprised if Kidd ends up with the team that drafted him. First of all, the Mavs have gained momentum of late so why fix something that isn't broken? Secondly, the nucleus of the team has developed a bond over the years so why break it up? Thirdly, Dallas would have to get rid of a majority of their valuable role players just to make the salaries match up. The only way Kidd goes to Dallas is if a third team is involved. Most likely destination: Portland, for a package that includes Steve Blake, Jarrett Jack, Raef LaFrentz, Darius Miles and/or Sergio Rodriguez. Why Portland: Kidd sees a future in teaming with Brandon Roy, Lamarus Aldridge and Greg Oden and the Nets get contracts that expire in a year or two and receive players who can help immediately.

MIKE BIBBY, SAC: Cleveland wants Jason Kidd but unfortunately the Nets won't trade him to an Eastern rival. Lebron James' consolation prize is Bibby. Because of Bibby's tendency to hit clutch shots, he is actually a good fit for the Cavaliers. Bibby, however, is the type of player who demands control of the ball in late-game situations. How this will affect Lebron is unknown. Either way, the Cavs get a scoring threat that Larry Hughes could never provide on a consistent basis. Cleveland gets: Bibby and Francisco Garcia. Sacramento gets: Larry Hughes, Daniel Gibson, and Donyell Marshall. Why Cleveland: The best place for Bibby to go is the East, where competition at the point guard position is not as tough as the West.

RON ARTEST, SAC: I don't think Ron Artest is going anywhere, especially if Bibby gets traded because Kings ownership loves Ron Ron. But Artest may force a trade especially if he can play for a contender. There is no doubt that Artest is a competitor and wants to play for a champioship. His $7.4 million contract is a bargain at this point, but next year he will certainly command top dollar. The question now becomes whether or not another team is willing to run the risk of signing him for big money with questions about his stability and all. Most likely destination: Sacramento. Second Most Likely Destination: Toronto, for Jamario Moon and Rasho Nesterovic's expiring contract. Why Toronto: The Raptors are desperate for defense, as evidenced by the undermanned Lakers' recent clobbering of Toronto in front of the Raptors' home fans.

KURT THOMAS, SEA: Thomas has an expiring contract and playoff teams are clamoring for him as we speak. In addition, what make Thomas even more attractive is his defensive toughness and playoff experience. I see Denver with George Karl (former coach of current Sonics coach Nate McMillan) making a huge push to land him. Teams such as San Antonio, Dallas, Houston, Golden State, and New Orleans could all use his services but a lot of times it's who you know that can get deals done. Karl certainly knows McMillan, and will even get him to include a much needed point guard in the deal, Luke Ridnour. Denver gets: Thomas and Ridnour. Seattle gets: Kenyon Martin who, at the very least, will excite Seattle fans with highlight film material in the last bid to keep the Sonics from skipping town. Why Denver: Thomas really has no choice where he winds up, as long as its a playoff team. 

SHAWN MARION, PHX: In direct response to the Lakers-Memphis deal, Phoenix finally deals The Matrix in order to get the big man they need to stay competitive in the Western Conference.  The Suns receive center Eddy Curry from New York and they also bring back shooter Quentin Richardson  to address their long range needs. This is good deal for both teams - New York gets a proven All-Star who will bring hustle and defense to an underachieving unit, while the Suns add a legitimate center allowing Amare Stoudemire to play his natural position of power forward. Phoenix gets: Curry and Richardson. New York gets: Marion. Why New York: A trade of this caliber could be the only thing that can save Isiah Thomas and Marion's time in Phoenix has simply run its course.

I'm sure there are other lower profile players in the league that are likely to be moved before the deadline. I'd like to know your thoughts on potential trades and players whom you think may be on the move and why.

Thanks again for stopping by.

A follow-up to the 2007 NBA Pre-Camp Power Rankings, here is the current power list as we approach the halfway point...

**In parentheses (pre-season rank, overall record, home record, road record, and record against teams in their respective conference)**

POISED FOR THE POSTSEASON...

1. Boston (#2, 30-5, 16-2, 14-3, 20-5 vs East):  Why are the Celtics the best right now? They are tops in the NBA in points allowed per game, opponent FG%, and are beating opponents by a 12-point margin. And they recently went 4-0 on a West Coast road trip, temporarily silencing all critics.

2. Dallas (#6, 26-11, 17-3, 9-8, 17-5 vs West): The Mavs' recent 102-86 shellacking of Detroit and current seven-game win streak puts defensive minded Dallas ahead of the Pistons in the power rankings, for now. And Detroit has already lost twice to Chicago, whom Dallas defeated last month.  

3. Detroit (#7, 28-9, 13-3, 15-6, 19-3 vs East):  Still contending, the Pistons now feature a younger and deeper bench than in years' past. They're second in the league in points allowed per game, opponent FG%, and they lead the league with fewest turnovers per game. The key to their success thus far has been their overall balance and efficiency. Detroit wins on the road just as much as they do at home.

4. L.A. Lakers (#8, 24-11, 14-5, 10-6, 15-5 vs West): The Young Guns' ascent in the rankings is due to their ability to consistently beat the top teams in the West. The Killer B's (Bryant and Bynum) lead the way for the Lakers, considered by many as the deepest and most dangerous team in the NBA. L.A.'s well-balanced machine can score and play defense with the best of them. Case in point: #3 in the NBA in PPG and FG%, #4 in the NBA in opponent FG% and steals per game. And their average 7-point margin of victory is third in the league and tops in the mighty Western Conference.

5. Phoenix (#3, 26-11, 13-4, 13-7, 12-9 vs West) : Amid talk of discord, the Suns continue to remain competitive despite their serious lack of size, depth, rebounding, and defense. The most telling stat about Mike D'Antoni's bunch, however, is that they only feast on the east, where they are 14-2, but have lots of trouble against their western counterparts. Although they once again lead the league in scoring, they are still 28th in points allowed and 18th in opponent FG%. This is a disturbing trend for a team with serious talent, but one that also finds it difficult to keep up with opponents who possess that rare combination of size, athleticism, balance, and championship-caliber coaching. Against the top eight teams in the Western Conference, Phoenix is a paltry 2-6 while the Lakers, on the other hand, are 7-3 against the same competition.

6. San Antonio (#1, 24-11, 18-3, 6-8, 17-9 vs West): There is absolutely no reason to panic as the defending NBA champions have lost two in a row, gone 5-5 in their last 10, and are seemingly sliding. Why so? They are 20th in the league in opponent FG%, a defensive category they usually lead the NBA in. The reality is they are pacing. They go through this every year and despite talk of getting old, they remain third in the NBA in points allowed. It's the same old San Antonio Spurs come playoff time, when they'll be number one in most people's minds. For now, they are sixth because they lost to the Suns last month while playing without this year's team MVP Tony Parker.

7. New Orleans (#18, 24-12, 10-7, 14-5, 17-8 vs West): The Hornets should not be a surprise to people, only because we know that Byron Scott is their coach and Chris Paul is running the show. Coach Scott has instilled defense into this young nucleus and his players are responding much like the New Jersey Nets responded to his leadership on their way to the Finals earlier this decade. Now the key is... can they stay healthy, particularly veteran sharpshooter Peja Stojakovic?

8. Portland (#24, 22-13, 17-3, 5-10, 16-7 vs West) : It appears the Blazermaniacs have resurfaced. The red-hot Blazers have won 17 of their last 18 games and along the way defeated Utah three times, Denver twice, Golden State twice, New Orleans, Toronto, and appear headed for the playoffs without Greg Oden. And imagine if Oden comes back this season. Btw, Brandon Roy is the real deal and so is Coach Nate McMillan, who is my midseason Coach of the Year.  

9. Denver (#11, 22-13, 15-5, 7-8, 13-10 vs West) : The Nuggets' dynamic duo of Carmelo Anthony and Allen Iverson keeps them in games offensively and their team defense isn't too shabby either (first in the league in steals per game and eighth in opponent FG%). However they are extremely thin at center, and their lack of depth at the point guard position could spell doom for the Nuggets come playoff time, where they will try to compete against the likes of Steve Nash, Tony Parker, Baron Davis, Chris Paul, Deron Williams, and Derek Fisher. That is not a very good sign for an inconsistent team.

10. Orlando (#19, 23-16, 7-8, 16-8, 14-6 vs East): The Magic started off strong but have tailed off lately, losing 12 out of their last 21, primarily because they are a jumpshooting team. Dwight Howard continues to be a monster, but besides him there isn't much else to be excited about. High-priced Rashard Lewis isn't even averaging 20 ppg and is shooting a disappointing 38% from three-point range. What baffles me about Orlando's management is why they picked up Lewis, who is essentially the same type of player as Hedo Tukoglu. Their stats and percentages are similar, making me wonder why they didn't go out and get a point guard like Steve Blake or Mo Williams instead.

11. Cleveland (#5, 19-18, 12-6, 7-12, 10-12 vs East): Don't let that .514 win percentage fool you. The defending Eastern Conference Champions got off to a slow start this year because of the holdouts of key players, Sasha Pavlovic and Anderson Varejao. Now both are back playing their customary roles, and the Cavs have quietly won seven of their last ten with King James putting on MVP-type performances. More importantly Cleveland is 9-6 against the mighty West, with wins against the Lakers, Dallas, Golden State, and Utah. 

12. Golden State (#14, 21-16, 10-7, 11-9, 14-10 vs West): The run-n-shoot Warriors, led by quarterback Baron Davis, continue to pile up the points and play nonexistent defense. Because of their style, they are last in the league in points allowed. However their depth keeps them in most games and the solid all-around play of Andris Biedrins has been a pleasant surprise for Nellie's rag-tag bunch.

 13. Utah (#21, 21-17, 15-3, 6-14, 11-10 vs West): Before the season began I specifically said  that Jazz fans will be wondering if Derek Fisher was really the difference maker. Three months later D-Fish has proved my point, making a huge impact on both the Lakers and the Jazz. Utah sorely misses the leadership and locker room presence that Fisher provides, not to mention his defensive savvy and toughness on the court. Ronnie Brewer has done an admirable job replacing him at shooting guard, but there is no replacement for chamionship experience and this is the main reason why the Jazz, despite their overall efficiency, have slipped in the West after making it all the way to the West Finals last year.

14. Houston (#10, 20-17, 9-6, 11-11, 10-11 vs West): The Rockets are currently on their longest winning streak of the season at five games and seem to be on a roll without their leading scorer, oft-injured Tracy McGrady. Although they are fourth in the league in points allowed and third in opponent FG%, something remains missing in the grand scheme of things for this underachieving ballclub. Some say that Yao Ming is too soft, yet others say inconsistencies in their rotation is what has caused the inconsistency in their record. Whatever it is, they need to figure it out fast or else a huge trade may be on the horizon. 

15. Toronto (#12, 19-17, 9-8, 10-9, 12-9 vs East): The absence of point guard T.J. Ford for half of the season has really hurt the Raptors thus far. Despite missing his leadership on the floor, they are sixth in the NBA in points allowed and second in steals per game. Notable wins so far have come against San Antonio and Dallas, and once Toronto gets Ford back in the lineup expect them to make a run for either the third or fourth playoff spot in the East. 

16. Washington (#16, 19-16, 11-8, 8-8, 13-10 vs East): The Wizards have been a mild surprise as they currently hold the four spot in the East despite being without top scorer Gilbert Arenas for most of the season. Former Laker Caron Butler has done a tremendous job leading the way, averaging 22 ppg while shooting 50% from the field and 40% from long distance. Antawn Jamison has also pitched in by averaging 21.6 ppg and 11 boards. Maybe they're better off without Arenas, whose commitment to winning an NBA title has been questioned of late.

POISED TO BATTLE 'TIL THE END...

17. New Jersey (#15, 18-18, 9-12, 9-6, 13-12 vs East): When Jason Kidd trade rumors seem to always persist, something is bound to happen. Kidd for Pau Gasol and Mike Conley? Kidd for Arenas? Kidd for McGrady? Kidd for Mike Bibby? If I'm Rod Thorn, I choose one because either way I won't go wrong. Unless a move is made, the Nets will continue to hover around mediocrity.

18. Atlanta (#29, 15-17, 10-8, 5-9, 9-13 vs East): The fact that the Hawks are 6-4 against the West seems promising. With the emergence of Josh Smith as a bonafide potential All-Star player and Marvin Williams as a consistent scorer, there is hope in Atlanta after all. Now to see if they can develop team chemistry and defensive consistency with Joe Johnson as their leader. A playoff spot is definitely within reach.

19. Chicago (#9, 14-20, 7-10, 7-10, 11-11 vs East): With all that talent, the struggling Bulls still lack a strong inside punch. Looking on the bright side, they are 5-3 under new coach Jim Boylan. Now to see if they finally structure a deal to pick up Pau Gasol or Amare Stoudemire.

20. Indiana (#20, 17-21, 8-9, 9-12, 9-11 vs East): How is it that the Pacers are ranked seventh in the league in scoring and fifth in opponent FG% yet they're only 2-8 in their last ten games and are playing terribly of late? Maybe it's because Jermaine O'Neal has lost interest. His averages of 15 points and 7 rebounds are not typical of the All-Star forward and his style of play doesn't seem to fit Coach Jim O'Brien's system. You can expect O'Neal to be dealt by the trading deadline, especially if Indiana continues to slide.

POISED FOR THE LOTTERY...

21. Milwaukee (#25, 15-22, 10-5, 5-17, 10-12 vs East): There is no question that on paper, the Bucks have talent. Then why is it they can't seem to get over the hump? Because they are 28th in the league in opponent FG%, while only 22nd in scoring.

22. Sacramento (#23, 14-21, 10-9, 4-12, 6-13 vs West): They have been without Mike Bibby, Ron Artest, and Kevin Martin for most of the season. Martin is back, with Artest and Bibby soon to follow. But the big question is still whether or not Bibby and/or Artest will be traded. Chances are they'll be shipped out, especially since young players like Francisco Garcia, Mikki Moore, and John Salmons all have done fairly well in the Kings' youth movement.

23. Philadelphia (#26, 14-23, 7-11, 7-12, 8-12 vs East): Losers of six in a row, the 76ers are insisting they won't part with either Andre Igoudala or Andre Miller. Philadelphia is acting as if they're both franchise players, and if they continue to believe that they won't be winning anytime soon. At best, Igoudala is a third option on a contending team and Miller is a starter on only a quarter of the teams in this league.

24. Charlotte (#22, 13-23, 11-11, 2-12, 9-20 vs East): The story of their season will be beating the Celtics in Boston and Michael Jordan's return (to the practice court).

25. L.A. Clippers (#30, 10-23, 5-13, 5-10, 6-14 vs West): GM Elgin Baylor says he is extremely disappointed with the Clippers' performance this year despite the injuries to Elton Brand and Shaun Livingston and the All-Star caliber play of center Chris Kaman. What else is new?

26. Memphis (#17, 10-26, 6-12, 4-14, 5-17 vs West):   The Grizzlies hired a new coach in Marc Iavaroni, who came from Phoenix, a team that doesn't have the word 'defense' in its vocabulary, and what is the result? 29th in the NBA in points allowed per game and 29th in opponent FG%. With all that talent in the lineup, there is no reason why Memphis should be this bad.

27. New York (#13, 9-26, 7-13, 2-13, 6-13 vs East): Hmm... now what to do with Isiah, Stephon, Eddy, Jamal, Quentin, David, Nate, Renaldo, Fred, Malik, Zach, Jared, Wilson and Mardy?

28. Seattle (#27, 9-27, 5-12, 4-15, 3-16 vs West): On to Oklahoma City we go...

29. Minnesota (#28, 5-31, 4-13, 1-18, 3-21 vs West): The Timberwolves recently beat Miami by 10, one of the few bright spots (along with Al Jefferson) in a year when they could possibly break the all-time record for futility. The only thing else worth looking forward to is February 8th, the homecoming of Kevin Garnett. Will the fans boo or show their appreciation? My guess is they won't respond the way Jazz fans jeered when Derek Fisher returned to Utah as an opposing player.

30. Miami (#4, 8-28, 4-11, 4-17, 3-17 vs East): 10 losses in a row and counting. When it rains, it pours. Led by The Big Everything Shaquille O'Neal, the Heat have shown that although they can fool us all by buying a championship it's just a matter of time until the true colors begin to reveal themselves. Now Little Pookie and Riles have come to find out what Kobe, Phil and Jerry have known all this time about the Big Liability - he's only there for the money.  

- New Jersey is 9-12 with their Big Three and slipping, as everyone awaits a major transaction...

- Four other teams besides the Nets likely to make a move of significance before the trade deadline: Bulls, Sixers, Grizzlies, and Knicks...

- Three more teams that need to be looking for trade partners: Heat, Kings, and Cavaliers...

- Multiple THUMBS DOWN to ALL Jazz fans for booing Derek Fisher, the epitomy of class, during his first game back in Utah as an opposing player...

- 29 other teams would absolutely love to have Shaquille O'Neal and his 15 point 7 rebound average, but at $1.3 million...

- Surprising to say but Allen Iverson and Carmelo Anthony averaging 25 apiece for the Nuggets is NOT gonna get it done...

- On the other hand, the Lakers have four players averaging in double-figures and two more right under 10 ppg with Jordan Farmar and Vlad Radmanovic at 9.8 and 9.4 respectively. Watch out, it's only the beginning...

- Lebron James, hands down, is the MVP of the NBA right now, with Hammer Howard second...

- Josh Smith is the best team defensive player in the league, while Kobe Bryant remains the best one-on-one defender in the game...

- Just imagine if  Kobe and Smith were on the same team...

- Like I said after the second week of the season, by Christmas time the Clippers would be back in their old true form...

- Most suprising team is Orlando while Miami is the most disappointing...

- San Antonio, in its quest to repeat as champions for the first time, is serious about gaining home court advantage throughout the postseason and having the best regular season record in the NBA...

- Sleeper to win the Western Conference has to be the L.A. Lakers and the sleeper in the East has to be the Cleveland Cavs...

- Most likely teams to be disappointed in the playoffs: Phoenix and Detroit...

- My TOP 10, with special mention in parentheses:

1) San Antonio (12-0 at home)

2) Boston (10-0 at home)

3) Phoenix (10-3 on the road)

4) Orlando (11-2 on the road)

5) New Orleans (only 6-5 at home, but 8-2 on the road)

6) L.A. Lakers (above .500 both home and away)

7) Detroit (above .500 both home and away)

8) Utah (only 5-7 on the road)

9) Dallas (only 4-6 on the road)

10) Denver (only 4-5 on the road)

And Finally...

A team that considers itself a title contender and then loses to the Minnesota Timberwolves (worst team in the NBA and is on the verge of threatening the all-time record for futility) is probably not going to win the championship anytime soon. Boy I can't wait for Christmas Day...

The on-again off-again Lakers drama continues with another episode that puts Days of Our Lives to shame. Just when you think everything's all fine and dandy in Lakerland, Jerry Buss and Kobe Bryant find another way to steal the spotlight from the rest of the league.

Let's just say that it's pure Hollywood. Let's also not forget that the Lakers have to create the stir because a storied franchise like this one, with a reputation for putting on a show every time, must keep reminding us that the attention should be on them. Not the World Champion Spurs. Not even the Boston Celtics. Just like America's teams the Dallas Cowboys and New York Yankees, the spotlight belongs to L.A.

The fact that Kobe's frustration ultimately led to him demanding and rescinding a trade cannot be ignored. He was serious enough that Buss and Bryant met in Barcelona to discuss the issue. Buss mentioned that he took offers during the summer but wasn't even close to moving Bryant because of a lack of value he would get in return. The reality is you'll never get equal value for Kobe. Philly didn't get equal value for Allen Iverson, and if people tell you Los Angeles got equal value for Shaquille O'Neal they're probably Miami fans.

So Bryant understood Buss' smart business decision not to move him and he went about his business, continuing to train and work hard to be ready for Team USA's FIBA tournament. Kobe then went on to impress the nation with his leadership, defense, and teamwork. It was just another display of Bryant's 100% commitment to his game and more importantly it showed how much loyalty Kobe has for the game of basketball.

This is why you love Kobe despite all of the off-court issues, primadona attitude, and criticisms of selfish play. If you've been witness to the evolution of Kobe since he became pro, you will realize why he is highly respected amongst his peers. And Buss has the utmost respect for Kobe even though Bryant called him a "liar" and an "####."

So the looming question remains: Is Buss running out of patience with Mr. Bryant? I really don't think he is. What we are seeing here is just two people in a relationship who respect and love each other to death just going through some growing pains. Like a young couple in year three of a relationship.

We realize that it all just makes for great entertainment and the media sensationalizes it because after all, it is L.A. And it's also natural for us fans to only look at the negatives in this drama, because some of us are just dying to "Beat L.A."

But if you look deeper into Buss' statements, his first comment is the one that should be amplified most. He said that "we don't want to trade Kobe and if we win everything will be ok." The solution is simple. Win and Kobe remains a lifelong Laker. Lose and go home.

So now it's up to Kobe Bryant to do his part and show he's a true leader and above all, a winner. I believe he's made great strides over the last two years and it will continue this season. He's already the best in the game right now. What will happen when his game matures and he becomes the complete package?

Meanwhile, the mediator Phil Jackson said that "it's probably best that it comes out now... and we can start the season the right way... that's what I believe will happen", showing signs of optimism for his ballclub. He has to react that way because he is their coach and he has to remain positive for the sake of the team. But at the same time Jackson has been a frontline observer so we cannot dismiss his point of view. He has seen this happen before in Chicago, although the circumstance were a little different. Nevertheless, Jackson is on Kobe's side and it's great to know that Kobe has Phil's support. This realization will only facilitate in Kobe's growth as a leader as he copes with learning how to be a winner.

Many great players in all of sports have been dealt away later in their careers, and many have stayed with a single team. With an organization like the Lakers, you can expect at all times a total commitment to winning and excellence. That is why just about every decade, the Lakers regularly make appearances in the NBA Finals.

And It's true that "you can't keep too many loyalties" like Buss intimated, since the business aspect of running a franchise is what dictates most decisions. But do you really expect Buss to deal away the number one draw in the league and trade the player who guarantees sell-outs everywhere you go just because that player calls you a liar? My father called me worse as an adolescent and I still never left home. It wouldn't be too intelligent of a business decision for Buss to trade his number one asset, especially if that particular employee never takes a day off from work.

But if Buss could trade Shaq, he could more easily trade Kobe right? Wrong. It was a smart business move to deal O'Neal because first of all, Shaq was no longer showing the level of commitment to his game like he did before winning his first title. Secondly, Shaq wanted big money that Buss was not willing to pay for an out-of-shape no-free-throw-making late game liability who was nearing the end of his glory years. Look at O'Neal now. 12 points and 6 boards a game. That's Chris Mihm numbers. Lastly, Shaq was also bickering with Kobe, who at that point already proved to Buss he had the work ethic worthy of a $100 million long-term deal. The key here is long-term. So ultimately Buss chose Kobe and Shaq got his cash somewhere else and O'Neal went on to win a title courtesy of Dwyane Wade.

Which brings us back to my boy KOBE, who is itching for a shot at his first title as the main dude. Bryant has much to prove not only to his critics but most importantly to himself. His summer temper tantrums were just a by-product of his maturation process as the leader of his team. He never assumed this role with O'Neal around, and now that it's his team he really isn't that sure yet as to how he's going to lead and how he's going to win. The Lakers, at this point, still do not have an identity they can call their own.

Indeed, that time will come whether or not Kobe sports the purple-and-gold. Because even if he leaves the Lakers in a couple of years, I guarantee that the organization will again find a way to build the pieces of another championship franchise in the near future.

For now, stay tuned after these messages for previews from the next episode of L.A. Divas...

After a long layoff from FOXBLOGCITY, and after drinking my share of PURA VIDAS and enjoying beautiful COSTA RICA with friends and my sizzling Stephanie... THE DIZZLE is BACK!

The 2007 edition of TEAM USA Basketball is about to play Venezuela tomorrow to kickstart the quest for gold in the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

We certainly have some top talent on this summer's squad, but I am not convinced that this should be the team to represent our country next year against the likes of France, Argentina, Yugoslavia, Greece, and Spain. I do believe, however, that this team is better than the team that lost to Greece last summer in Japan because this time around KOBE replaces AI. Mr. Bryant is the real answer.

But there are still questions. Will TIM DUNCAN or THE MATRIX be in the red, white, and blue next year? What about the CELTIC TRIO? Will D-WADE be healthy enough? Does SHAQ give it one more go 'round or will GREG ODEN take his place? We can dream about the real DREAM TEAM, but we must use what we have at our disposal right now...

AIR KOBE, J-KIDD, BRON BRON, MELO MAN A,  buh buh buh BILLUPS, AMARE, LEFTY REDD, HOWARD THE DUNK, DERON WILL.I.AMs, T-CHANDLER, MILLER MIKE and FRESH PRINCE OF COMPTON.

My crunch time starters are: PG- Kidd Magik, SG- Kobester, SF- Fresh Prince, PF- Amare, C- Howard the Dunk

Melo Man A, Chauncey, The King, and Lefty will head the second unit. Tyson, Will.I.AmS, and Miller Mike are there in case of foul trouble, much like THE LAKERS used Slava Medvedenko, Sasha Vujacic, and Devean George.

So tip off is tomorrow on NBA TV. Who are your STARTERS? Feel free to speak your mind.

I know the both of you, along with Coach Jackson, Jeannie, Jerry, and Jim, have all been tired of hearing it. The complaints from Lakers fans. The whining from season ticket holders. The trash-talking from Laker haters. The infamous Kobe Video. And the speculation from insiders and sports-talk radio.

Right now I'm sure neither one of you really knows what will happen in the upcoming weeks of the free agency period. There has been so much of this Garnett trade talk circulating around the NBA that a new team enters the picture every week. Who's next, the Clippers?

Kobe, I have one thing to say to you so you better stop complaining. Be patient, young padawan. The force will be with you. Phil, the Jedi Master, has your back and that should be enough to let you know that the Lakers will do everything they can to build a title contender this year. Chick Hearn is watching and he too is probably sick of hearing it from you.

And what are you complaining about? It's not like you've ever led a team to a playoff series victory anyway since Shaq left. You make $136 million, you have the top selling jersey in the world, your reputation and image are vastly improved, and the Lakers have reiterated over and over again that they will build around you. You've made your point. Now's the time to be adult and professional about the whole situation.

And I have your back too. That's why I'm writing this piece. If anyone in the Laker organization reads this, I sure as heck hope you get a copy Mr. Kupchak. And please give one to Brian Shaw, Kurt Rambis, Tex Winters, Jim Cleamons, Frank Hamblen, Mr. Buss, his grandkids... whomever. You guys up there in the war room who make all the decisions, you need to be a  lot more creative when you pitch other GM's around the league about a proposal. How effective are you at selling the benefits of a Lamar Odom and an Andrew Bynum to other investors?

If Danny Ainge could pull off a trade to get Ray Allen for practically nothing, then why can't you execute anything of significance Mr. Kupchak? And  if you are calling the re-signing of Luke SkyWalton a major move of signifcance, then maybe you need to call me in for a job interview with your scouting team and let me show you what I can do with a desk, computer, and a phone.

If the reality is that you won't have enough to sign KG, then allow me to make a pitch to you before you pitch it to them.

Go after YAO MING. It's clear that the Yao and T-Mac experiment will probably not work no matter how many guards the Rockets acquire. Do the Rockets actually think that bringing back Mike James will catapult them to the second round? What a joke! Then they go out and sign another point guard in Aaron Brooks and bring in an undersized power foward in Carl Landry, who makes me wonder if he is just going to be another Juwan Howard, whom they dealt to Minnesota for James. Looks to me like the Rockets are either going in circles or are heading for outer space to explore Mars. One thing is for sure, Mitch. It's time for you to make the call and help them out.

It's obvious that the Rockets may be on the verge of adopting a high-tempo style offense with the addition of Brooks and the hiring of Rick Adelman, who run-and-gunned with the Clyde Drexler Blazers in the nineties. So why not offer them point forward Lamar Odom, who would thrive in Houston next to McGrady, and Andrew Bynum, who would give them a young, legitimate post replacement for Yao? Odom and Bynum for Yao and Rafer Alston. Done deal. Just go out and sell it.

Next on the list should be Ron Artest. You have two scenarios to throw at the Maloof Brothers. They may not want to listen but you have to be aggressive. Since the King owners are in the casino business, you may want to have Jerry initiate the talks as well. 

Scenario #1: Vladimir Radmanovic and Sasha Vujacic for Artest. The contracts match. All you have to do is find a way for the Maloofs to believe in the idea that European sharp shooters are good for their franchise. It worked with Hedo Turkoglu, it'll work with Radman and Sasha.

Scenario #2: Kwame Brown and Jordan Farmar for Artest. The contracts again will match up. Sacramento gets to unload Brown's contract after next year and they receive a solid defensive big man as well. Farmar is an easy sell because the Kings get a Pac-10 replacement for Mike Bibby in case he leaves.

As far as the midlevel exception is concerned, Steve Blake would be my choice for starting point guard. He is a team player who played for a contender in college and he is a sharp-shooting specialist as well. You won't have to worry about any egos with this addition. Everywhere he's gone he's played with a top notch two-guard (Juan Dixon, Michael Redd, Allen Iverson) so there won't be an issue playing with Kobe. Blake has veteran savvy, and above all he reminds me of a combination between a young Steve Kerr and Mark Price. 

Last on the list, Mr. Kupchak, will be your $1.3 milliion veteran exception. If everything above happens to come to fruition, you will certainly need another big man. There are two viable candidates with this slot. Former All-Star veteran center Jamaal Magloire could help fill a huge need as backup center. Another player worth calling is Chris Webber, who strongly considered the Lakers last year and may actually leave Detroit after a failed half-season experiment.

In sum, here are my new starters for 2007-08: 1- Blake, 2- Kobe, 3- Artest, 4- Webber, 5- Yao. Bench rotation will include Evans, Crittenton, Cook, Turiaf, Gasol, and either Farmar and Brown or Radmanovic and Vujacic.

So there you go. I've put on my Laker GM cap and made my moves. Kobe and Mitch, it's time to make yours.

Otherwise, give me a call and TO the file to me. I'll close the sale.

Sincerely,

JDizzle.

With all the stars back from injury and healthy, the madness begins. Here are the culprits...

WESTERN CONFERENCE

1. Dallas - They made it look easy all season long, as the Mavericks set out to prove that last year was no fluke. Dirk Nowitzki played MVP-caliber ball all year but still has to prove that he can make free throws when it counts most. Defensive-minded Dallas has something to prove so we'll see, as they open up against a team they've lost to six out of their last seven games. Grade: A+

2. Phoenix - With the number-two seed already locked up, the Suns still played their starters deep into the 4th quarter in their loss to the Clippers this week. Something's telling me that Mike D'Antoni doesn't have too much confidence in his bench. The Suns' lack of depth may cost them against the deeper and bigger L.A. Lakers, especially if Kobe Bryant and co. can play defense the way they know they can. On the flip side, Phoenix can still score whenever they want to, with two-time MVP Steve Nash spearheading the attack. Grade: A-

3. San Antonio - The most battle-tested team in the playoffs is also the league's hottest since the All-Star break. You can't count them out because Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili are as healthy as they've ever been, and Tony Parker had Eva Longoria to keep him well-oiled throughout the postseason. And we can't ever fail to mention Robert Horry, who is also on a mission of his own: ring #7. Grade: A

4. Utah - They surprised us all with a fast start to a turn-around season. They defeated Phoenix three out of four. They won 50 games. They overachieved once again under Jerry Sloan. They are as cohesive as any unit in the NBA, but their lack of a legit two-guard may cost them in the long run. T-Mac should have a huge series against the Jazz. Grade: B

5. Houston - If Yao never got hurt and missed all those games, he'd be in the running for MVP. If McGrady never had back spasms, he would be in the discussion for MVP. One thing is for sure. Jeff Van Gundy is a favorite for coach of the year. The Rockets can potentially go as far as the conference finals if they play consistent defense and pound the ball inside to Yao who, in turn, has to dominate. Grade: B+

6. Denver - The big question isn't whether Melo and AI can play together. The key to the Nuggets' playoff success depends heavily on the contributions of Marcus Camby and Nene. If they play big and stay out of foul trouble, they have a chance to extend the Spurs. But once they allow Duncan to own the paint, it'll be all over in five. Grade: B-

7. L.A. Lakers - Just another season in Tinseltown. Kobe won another scoring title and Phil Jackson was inducted into the HOF. Lamar Odom's son died unexpectedly, Kwame Brown threw a cake and got fined, Vladimir Radmanovic became known as Slalom after he decided to take up snowboarding and lied about it, rookie Jordan Farmar dispatched Smush from the starting PG position, and Luke SkyWalton was rumored to be linked to Britney Spears. The only story Lakers fans are really concerned about is whether the role players will be mentally prepared to butt heads with the fun-n-gun Suns. The roster is finally complete. L.A. has depth. The Lakers will be ready. Grade: B for Bryant

8. Golden State - If Nellie had never pulled off the trade that brought over Al Harrington and Stephen Jackson, maybe the Clippers would be playing Dallas. Instead, Nelson goes up against his former team with something to prove. Unfortunately, the Warriors' best big man happens to be  80-year old Adonal Foyle. Grade: C+

Please check out my Eastern Conference report card in a separate post coming soon to a blog near you...

For the very first time I will refrain from hyping my favorite team, The Los Angeles Lakers. This is not an attempt to generate hits on my blog, so for once I won't talk about KOBE.

I'm sure NASHTYBALL, RICKO, CRYMEARIVER, JESUS2, MAILMAN4, 14FALCONS,  BISHOP53, The_DAN, VEARLTHEPEARL, NACHOooO, QWIZ and all the rest of the LAKER HATER NATION are jumping for joy right now.

I could talk about Kobe's 43 pts against the Celtics and how the Lakers played team ball while winning by 13,  but what good will that do me?

So instead of talking about the elite, I break down the teams from both conferences who I believe will surprise us in the second half of the season. They may even knock out an elite squad or two once the playoffs begin...

1)  HOUSTON ROCKETS - Before Yao got hurt, he was a legitimate MVP candidate. Considering that Yao and T-Mac are hardly ever on the court together and that they have a 28-16 record, the Rockets are in perfect position to sneak up on a few teams and really become a threat. Their roster is built for defense, they have an excellent bench, they have size to match up with the elite, they have an experienced coaching staff, and we have yet to see how good they can really be with guys like Battier, Alston, Wells, Novak, and Greek PG Spanoulis surrounding Yao and T-Mac. Mutombo has been a pleasant surprise and Juwan Howard seems to have discovered the fountain of youth. Possible first round adversaries include San Antonio, Phoenix, and the Lakers.

2) DENVER NUGGETS - They are only five games behind Utah (3 in the loss column) for the division lead and are slowly starting to learn how to play with each other. Of course, a lot of it falls on George Karl's shoulders, whether or not Carmelo and Iverson can learn how to coexist, and the impact Kenyon Martin makes if he ever returns. But the talent is certainly there on paper. My hunch is that Denver overtakes Utah to win the division simply because the Nuggets have scoring punch in all positions. The Jazz will find out that unless they make a trade, they will continue to get torched by opposing teams' shooting guards and will struggle from here on out now that Boozer and Kirilenko aren't 100% healthy. They could wind up upsetting a team like San Antonio or Dallas in the first round

3) L.A. CLIPPERS - I am not counting them out  just yet, especially when you have Sam Cassell on your team. The Clippers are only 4.5 games behind the Lakers and if they manage to get an 8-seed in the playoffs they will have a good chance at knocking out a contender, be it Phoenix or Dallas. The nagging questions for the second half remain: Will Kaman prove he's worth the money? Do they keep Magette? Will Livingston finally work his way out of his funk? Is Tim Thomas just waiting for the playoffs before he starts shooting the lights out again? Why did they sign Doug Christie?

4) MIAMI HEAT - What needs to happen if they are going to make some noise in the postseason:  Shaq has to be in shape, D-Wade has to be healthy, Walker needs to be motivated, Posey needs to play defense, Zo needs to maintain the fire, Payton needs to be The Glove, J-Williams needs to know he won't be traded, Eddie Jones needs to be clutch, Riley needs to want to be there, and Haslem needs to be Haslem. The Heat could literally be an 8-seed and would be the favorites if all of the above is happening.

5) INDIANA PACERS - Larry Bird says Carlisle's job is safe. Larry Bird says he believes in Jermaine O'Neal. Larry Bird says the additions of Murphy and Dunleavy will improve their frontcourt defense and rebounding. If the Pacers can somehow muster some chemistry from this unpredictable unit, then maybe they could contend in the East. Right now O'Neal is underperforming but Larry Bird says he'll change all that come playoff time. I see Indiana matching up really well with Cleveland, Washington, Detroit, and every team in the Atlantic.

The Dallas Mavericks are on top right now but can they keep it up in the postseason?

The fun-n-run-n-gun Phoenix Suns keep scoring but will they tire out defensively by season's end?

The Spurs are winning despite Poppovich calling this year's team his "worst ever" and will their age show in their legs as the postseason gets longer?

The Jazz, Rockets, and Nuggets are sleepers in the West and could upset any of the top three in a seven-game series.

THE LAKERS, on the other hand, have KOBE BRYANT, the one man who is the only capable 30-point scorer in the league to literally will his team to the top night in and night out. The LAKERS. FINALS. I keep saying it, but people don't want to listen.

I wouldn't be surprised if the A.I. deal backfires on the Nuggets. Don't be too quick to elevate Denver into elite status just yet. George Karl not only has the egos of 'Melo and Iverson to tame, but he still has that ever-lingering  headache called Kenyon Martin. And more importantly, how will J.R. Smith's and Earl Boykin's roles change and how many minutes and touches will they lose? Many questions but is there an "answer"? We'll see...

Meanwhile in Minnesota, K.G. is upset that Glen Taylor and Kevin McHale have failed once again to bring in that much needed support. The best chance for Garnett to win is in L.A. or Boston. The Lakers have more to offer. The T-Wolves can pick any three plus a draft pick between  Andrew Bynum, Kwame Brown, Lamar Odom, Smush Parker, Sasha Vujacic, Vladimir Radmanovic, Aaron McKie, Brian Cook, and Chris Mihm. The Celtics would most likely part with Wally Sczerbiak, Sebastian Telfair, Theo Ratliff, plus a scrub or two. The choice is K.G's. If he wants to win bad enough, all he has to do is demand it.