Commentary
San Antonio over Boston (Spurs in seven)
The Spurs just won’t go away. I’m convinced Tim Duncan is immortal. If Manu Ginobili can stay healthy, I have no doubt the Spurs will return to the Finals. His presence was sorely missed in last season’s playoff loss to the Los Angeles Lakers. Boston’s Kevin Garnett strained his knee last week, but that shouldn’t slow the Celtics. Once playoff time arrives, these tested vets should rise to any challenge that stands in their way.
Cleveland over Denver (Cavaliers in six)
All bias aside, I legitimately believe that the Cavs will win the NBA Finals and LeBron James will attain the first of many championship rings. The Cavs will most likely end up with the best record in the Eastern Conference, especially with Kevin Garnett injuring his knee, which will make the Celtics more vulnerable.
The Nuggets aren’t being discussed as a contender but with Manu Ginobli being sidelined for two to three weeks with a stress reaction in his ankle, the Nuggets will cement the second seed in the Western Conference. With the Los Angeles Lakers missing Andrew Bynum, I think that Carmelo Anthony and Chauncey Billups will have enough fire-power to get out of the first round and eventually upset the Lakers.