The nba all star game is now in the review mirror, so let's look toward the second half of the season. With a condensed schedule, each game from here on out takes on added importance. With the exception of Miami, Chicago, Oklahoma City, and San Antonio, everyone is pretty much even. Evidenced by the log jam in the standings for the remaining 12 playoff spots. Keep an eye on these developing story lines...they could have an impact on who this year's champion will be.
Everything starts with the trade deadline on March 15, and all eyes are on Orlando's Dwight Howard. The conference that lands the services of Howard will win it all this year. If he stays in the east then he probably goes to New Jersey. Even with Deron Williams, it won't be enough to dethrone Miami in the east. The Heat would be poised to win it all. If Howard lands in the west then he probably signed with Dallas or the Lakers. Either team would be favored to beat the Heat should they meet up in the finals with Howard roaming the middle.
A far less talked about story line is the return of Memphis' Zach Randolph. Z-Bo finished last season as one of the league's top power forwards, and was also the mvp of the Grizzlies historic playoff run. Due back in a few days, Randolph returns to a team that's quietly seventh in the west. Getting Zach Randolph back puts 20 points and 10 rebounds back in the Grizzlies starting lineup. I'm not saying the Grizzlies will win the west...but they could knock off a one or two seed again this year with a healthy Randolph. The Thunder and Spurs are curently 1 and 2 in the west. After last year's playoffs, I am sure that neither team wants any part of the Grizzlies in a first round match up this year. Remember....Memphis "tanked" games late in the season to draw the Spurs last year, and was a triple overtime loss away from knocking off the Thunder.
The Boston Celtics are now shopping all star point guard Rajon Rondo. The Lakers are looking for a point guard after having CP3 stolen from them. Could two of sports most bitter rivals strike a deal?The New York Knicks should be fun to watch. If they can find a way to mesh all of their newly acquired talent then the Knicks could be a problem...even for Miami. And speaking of the Heat, we're all praying they make it back to the finals. The fourth quarter of game 1 would be a ratings bonanza with King James on the court. follow @plcolter
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