2007 NBA Preseason Power Rankings
1. Spurs- Always start with the defending champs. They played so well last year during the playoffs that you have to believe that they will be tough to beat again this year. They have had some distractions with Tony Parker becoming Mr. Longoria and everything. They are a year older and you never know when the feeling of content sets in for this bunch. They have one of the best coaches in the league and that goes a long way.
2. Dallas Mavericks- The Mavs have been upset the past two seasons with none worse than last years debacle against Golden St. That will either prove to be a solid starting point for them or set them back. They’ve resigned Devin Harris and Dirk is an MVP candidate again. Josh Howard will come into his own even more this year and I expect them to be #1 or #2 seed in the Western Conference again.
#3. Boston Celtics- I had to put them here. On paper these guys look great. I keep hearing and reading that no team with 3 20 ppg scorers ever one the title. That’s why I didn’t pick them first. I just don’t see a lot of strength in the Eastern Conference at this point. I would’ve selected Cleveland but they have some issues of their own and I can’t see them beating Boston in a head to head series with this many weapons.
#4. Phoenix Suns- I actually like these guys as a top 3 but I felt some self imposed pressure to put an Eastern Conference team in the top 3. Phoenix has some question marks like Shawn Marion wanting out, but any team with Steve Nash and Amare Stoudemire are going to be very tough to beat. Plus, whomever they acquire for Marion is going to be able to help this team. Marion would be a fool to leave in my opinion. I like the fact that Amare is another year removed from his microfracture surgery and I expect big things from him.
#5. Detroit Pistons- I like them better than Cleveland. Word is that Rasheed has lost some weight and is really preparing for a big season. That’s a big sign for things to come. Billups is an all star point and Hamilton is a great scorer for them. Mix in Prince and an improving Maxiell and I really like these guys. You don’t want to play them in the playoffs that’s for sure. This is my sleeper this year.
Every so often I’ll go back and revisit these. Other teams to watch for: Utah, Rockets, Cleveland and Denver.
October 2nd, 2007 at 6:12 pm
Update: Amare Stoudemire recently underwent minor surgery on his right knee to remove a floating particle that was causing discomfort. He is expected to be out only 2-3 weeks and not miss any substantial time. I would like to point out that this is not the same knee that microfracture surgery was performed on.