When it comes to free agency in the National Basketball Association, no season has been more hyped going in than this upcoming one. The fact that Dirk Nowitzki has the option to become an unrestricted free agent has no one even flinching, due to the fact that there is a bevy of talent that will have to find a new home.
Wherever Lebron ends up will probably be one the top teams, but let's account for every one else that is poised for successful seasons.
When it comes to the Vegas odds, that team from Los Angeles (no, not the Clippers) is the surefire favorite. The Lakers will have everyone returning, including Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol, Andrew Bynum and Lamar Odom. That is good for Laker fans and bad news for everyone else.
Regardless of whom Chicago lands, they are going to be a good team. As it stands, they are probably in a position to nab at least an 8 seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs, however you can be sure that they will get at least one superstar. Even if its just Joe Johnson, that immediately makes them a contender.
The Orlando Magic are not going away. Jameer Nelson is back to full health, and Dwight Howard's post game can only get better (it has to eventually, right?). Rashard Lewis was nonexistent in the playoffs, which is a cause for concern, but the Magic's size and perimeter shooting pose problems for everyone else.
Look out for Kevin Durant, Jeff Green and the rest of the Oklahoma City Thunder. This team returns with a vengeance and should make serious noise in the Western Conference playoffs. Who knows what Durant will average next season, but I think the Thunder will be in good position to finish top 3 in the West.
The Phoenix Suns had a miracle run this season. Hopefully it was not a miracle, however, and Steve Nash and crew will be able to make another deep run in the Western Conference playoffs. It is doubtful since Amare Stoudemire is most likely finished with Phoenix.
Finally, the New York Knicks finally have a chance to be good next year! The team has been rebuilding for this year for as long as I can remember, and I'm crossing my fingers that Lebron becomes a Knick, but I am sure the Knicks management will find a way to mess this one up.
When not giving his thoughts on city life, this author frequently writes about home furnishings such as bathroom vanity furniture and vanity desks.
