5. Dallas Mavericks (6): After struggling mightily to start the new year, the Mavs are back on track and have won nine of their last 10 – without Caron Butler. If they are able to acquire Melo somehow, they are going to be extremely tough to beat. Even if they are choke artists, it would be tough to bet against a lineup of Kidd-Terry-Anthony-Nowitzki-Chandler.
4. Chicago Bulls (4): He hung 42 points on the Spurs – a very impressive feat. He’s currently in a two-way battle with LeBron for MVP, and if he keeps his current play up, he might become the first Bull to take home the award since His Airness.
3. Miami Heat (3): I hate to say it, but as great as Derrick Rose has been this year, if I had an MVP vote this year, I would have to give it to LeBron. He’s ego might outweigh the Earth, but he might be the most dominant basketball player of all-time. He doesn’t have any rings yet, but as good as he is, they will come.
2. San Antonio Spurs (1): I’m still extremely terrified at the fact that the Spurs are 46-10 and Tim Duncan is averaging career lows in virtually every category – including minutes (under 30 per game!). If the Spurs remain this rested and healthy for the playoffs, the Lakers are going to have quite a challenge on their hands getting to the finals for the fourth consecutive year.
1. Boston Celtics (2): Right now, Boston is the most complete team in the NBA. They have an elite point guard, consistent scorers, the best defense in the NBA and guys who hit their open shots. However, one injury to anyone in their starting five and they are done.