Don't Parody the Parity

So Many Options

I've heard so many times that the NBA is predictable. That in any given season, you can pick out 3-4 teams that have a legitimate shot at winning the title. Most years that's true, but this year makes that train of thought a little bit shaky.

We have a favorite, the Miami Heat. Unfortunately for them, their best player has developed a reputation for shrinking in critical moments. It's not a knock on said player, just a representation of how available this year's title is.

The Bulls have maintained the league's best record despite reigning MVP, Derrick Rose, missing 23 games. Have their role players developed the confidence they'll need to beat Miami? Though the Eastern Conference seemed like two-team race, the Boston Celtics have clamped down on defense and won the most games since the All-Star break (18).

Out west, the Oklahoma City Thunder were thought to be the golden standard. As much as they've lived up to the hype, it's hard to trust a squad led by a 23-year old. 

With their length in the frontcourt (and Mr Bryant), nobody can count the Lakers out. The Spurs and Grizzlies have proven to have deep squads, overcoming a variety of injuries.

My point here is that this is a rare year in which the playoff race can't be predicted. The NFL gets this annually, but basketball fans have been granted this due to the lockout. Don't take this uncertainty for granted, that's what we watch for, and it's what we'll get this postseason.