1. Golden State Warriors
Winning a championship doesn’t seem to affect this team too much.
2. Los Angeles Clippers
This is setting up to be a must win year for Doc Rivers and company.
3. Phoenix Suns
If they make the playoffs, they’ll be one team to watch out for.
4. Sacramento Kings
With George Karl and DeMarcus Cousins not seeing eye to eye, things could get ugly.
5. Los Angeles Lakers
A few bright spots and key veteran additions should lesson the stress on Kobe. Continue reading
Eastern Conference
1. New York Rangers vs. 4. Florida Panthers
2. Washington Capitals vs. 3. New York Islanders
1. Montreal Canadiens vs. 4. Pittsburgh Penguins
2. Tampa Bay Lightning vs. 3. Boston Bruins
Western Conference
1. Anaheim Ducks vs. 4. Minnesota Wild
2. Calgary Flames vs. 3. Los Angeles Kings
1. Nashville Predators vs. 4. Dallas Stars
2. St. Louis Blues vs. 3. Chicago Blackhawks
Conference Finals
Capitals over Canadiens
Ducks over Blackhawks
Stanley Cup Finals
Ducks over Capitals
1. Anaheim Ducks
This is the last chance for Bruce Boudreau to get the Ducks into a Cup Final.
2. Calgary Flames
The surprise team in the NHL last year will build on that momentum.
3. Los Angeles Kings
Having a year off will help this group of veterans recoup for another playoff run.
4. Vancouver Canucks
They were sneaky good last year, but that early playoff exit will sting.
5. San Jose Sharks
The wheels came off quickly and a rebuilt goaltending position won’t help this year.
6. Edmonton Oilers
When will all this top tier talent live up to their potential?
7. Arizona Coyotes
A tumultuous offseason with the city and ownership arguing over the stadium lease won’t help the on-ice product. Continue reading
* – indicates playoffs
MVP – Chris Paul – Clippers
Rookie – Jabari Parker – Bucks
Coach – Randy Wittman – Wizards
Defensive Player – Andre Drummond – Pistons
Most Improved – Chris Bosh – Heat
Sixth Man – Isaiah Thomas – Suns
Executive – David Griffin – Cavaliers Continue reading
1. Los Angeles Clippers
With Donald Sterling ousted the path is clear for a title run.
2. Golden State Warriors
Some front office bickering could lead to their downfall.
3. Phoenix Suns
They have the best guard rotation in the division.
4. Los Angeles Lakers
Byron Scott is the right and only choice for this team after spurning Phil Jackson.
5. Sacramento Kings
Lots of talent, but is there a direction for this team? Continue reading
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