Western Conference
The road to the NBA Finals goes through Tinseltown, and this year the Lakers may have what it takes to go all the way. The new-look Nuggets will pose a threat, however, as will the timeless if Manu-less Spurs 1 v 8: Prediction: Lakers in 5
No. 1 Lakers
What to look for: Kobe Bryant and Co. spent the season dominating the Western Conference, beating the Jazz in the season finale with nothing at stake. Only the Cavaliers had a better record or won by a higher average of points per game (7.6).
No. 8 Jazz
What to look for: Pesky Utah is still among the league's most efficient offensive teams, finishing third in the league in scoring. Deron Willams and the Jazz have struggled badly on the road, however, going 15-26 away from home.
2 v 7: Prediction: Nuggets in 5
No. 2 Nuggets
What to look for: Denver became less flashy but much more consistent, especially defensively, with the switch from Allen Iverson to Chauncey Billups. Carmelo Anthony had a strong season, and J.R. Smith and Nene enjoyed the best seasons of their careers.
No. 7 Hornets
What to look for: New Orleans has been slowed by injuries, but Tyson Chandler is back from left ankle woes and James Posey seemed to grow stronger in the past week. Chris Paul had an MVP-caliber season, leading the league in assists and steals again.
3 v 6: Prediction: Spurs in 7
No. 3 Spurs
What to look for: Manu Ginobili is out for the rest of the season and Tim Duncan has been limited by a sore knee. Roger Mason Jr. and Michael Finley have made up for some of the loss of Ginobili in the last seconds of games, and Tony Parker has had his best season.
No. 6 Mavericks
What to look for: Dallas finished the season on a roll, with wins in five of six games down the stretch. Dirk Nowitzki scored at least 20 points in 25 consecutive games to close out the regular season, and Jason Terry continues to impress.
