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The oddsmakers try to bait one side or the other and usually do a fine job on Christmas day. I swear the favorite never covers. You probably recall being a Lakers fan as they play most of the time. I remember facing Miami, Miami was a 3 point favorite, last second I changed from money line to spread, boom, Miami wins by 2. I cannot remember if the Lakers covered in 02 against Philly because I didn't check the spread. Had fourth row seats from the floor and was talking all types of shit until the Sixers blew a lead in the fourth.

As far as Boston, right, sorry if it was unclear but that is what I meant to say about the Celtics, they can't have it any tougher than last year even though the East is better. They actually played 20 games (Detroit series went six) but same difference. Cleveland could maybe get home court but I think Boston's success is a little more sustainable. Cleveland really has to play intense defense to win, Boston can win a shootout if they have to.

All-Star wise I think there are some guys kind of under the radar in the East who should really make the team. First off Danny Granger is having a great season under adverse circumstances and really filling it up for the Pacers. Devin Harris has been a huge difference maker for New Jersey, scoring a ton and moving the ball around ... bonus for making Mark Cuban look incredibly greedy and stupid (as if he needed help). Jameer Nelson is an assassin for Orlando, he runs the show and takes over late in games. He reminds me a little of Andrew Toney or Vinnie Johnson the way he can just fire in a quick ten points in a big spot. Finally Joe Johnson has been playing all-star caliber ball for a while now and should finally get recognized.

In the West, one guy who should make it but won't it Utah's Ronnie Brewer. This is the kind of player I love, can stick the other team's best offensive player, comes up with steals, hustles everywhere, is unselfish and can still score when called upon. He has had to do a little of everything with all of the Jazz's injury issues and helped them immensely. Tony Parker and Andres Biedrins are a couple guys quietly having excellent seasons. From lousy teams, Rudy Gay is a borderline all-star and I think Kevin Durant should make it.