The [b]Los Angeles Lakers[/b] have started with a record of 8-2 and are playing with a great deal of intensity.
The two-time defending champions did not make any changes to the starting five during the summer, but they did upgrade their bench. Steve Blake, Matt Barnes and Theo Ratliff were signed in an effort to solidify the second unit. I think these additions will pay huge dividends later on in the season.
The great [b]Kobe Bryant[/b] is 31-years-old but he retains the enthusiasm of someone half his age. He has worked very hard during the off-season and looks razor sharp.
The media has virtually awarded the title to [b]Miami[/b] this year but I suspect Kobe and friends have other ideas. The Lakers host the Heat on Christmas Day and it should be a cracker. This nationally televised...
The new look [b]Miami Heat[/b] have a record of 5-2 for the year. LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh worked the free agency system this summer to potentially create a superpower and the trio have contracts that guarantee them a combined $327m over six years.
Miami had a [b]disastrous start[/b] to the season losing 88-80 to Boston in their very first game. The Celtics came out firing from the opening tip and were always in control. LeBron James received a hostile reception from the Boston faithful who applauded his every missed shot.
The Heat have generated a great deal of resentment from the other teams in the league. There is a real perception that Miami has attempted to "buy" the NBA championship by signing three of the best players in the world. [b]LeBron James[/b] has...