Pre-season favorites the Los Angeles Lakers and the Boston Celtics were picked to return to the NBA finals by many analysts; a match up most people would be again intrigued by.  And at this mid-way point these to teams represent the best from each conference, while the Cleveland Cavaliers have built a strong supporting cast around LeBron James, the San Antonio Spurs have gotten healthy and continue to play well, and the Orlando Magic have matured into an upper tier squad.

Some up-and-comers include the Portland Trail Blazers, another team where health has been a major factor and the Clippers are hot- kidding.  Many basketball fans consider the New Orleans Hornets a top tier team, but their play this year has been very polarized.  Chris Paul is for sure the league’s elite point guard.

Here’s how I view the ‘Power Rankings” for the true contenders:

1. Lakers (yes I’m a homer, but this is a solid pick)

2. Celtics

3. Cavaliers

4. Hornets

5. Magic

6. Spurs

Handicapping- I actually don’t see a Celtics vs. Lakers rematch.  I think Lebron’s Cavaliers will take the Celtics down to meet the Lakers in what would be a interesting bill- Kobe vs LeBron.  Can Kobe get his 1st without Shaq before LeBron can get any?