1. Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers not only sport the NBA’s best record, they also have arguably the most talented roster, the best player and the best coach. If they can get healthy and remain healthy, the Lakers should make a deep run in the playoffs.

2. Boston Celtics
Although the Celtics haven’t been quite as dominant as last season, they are still a team that no one will want to see in the playoffs. Ray Allen is playing fantastic basketball and Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce will show up when it matters.

3. Cleveland Cavaliers
LeBron James has gone from young, exciting player to a superstar. There’s virtually nothing he can’t do on the court. This season, James also has enough talent around him to keep defenses honest.

4. San Antonio Spurs
Though overlooked, the Spurs remain in the thick of things. Winners of NBA championships in 1999, 2003, 2005 and 2007, the Spurs could continue their odd-year success if they can peak at the right time.

5. Orlando Magic
Jameer Nelson’s shoulder injury has hurt the Magic’s chances, however they still have to be regarded as one of the top five teams in any NBA power rankings. Dwight Howard is a monster down low and he’s surrounded by outstanding shooters.

6. Denver Nuggets
The Chauncey Billups for Allen Iverson swap is looking better and better for the Nuggets. As the Pistons fall flat on their face with Iverson, the Nuggets with Billups have taken the next step and are now legit championship contenders.

7. Houston Rockets
Since the All-Star break, the Rockets have been as good as any team in the NBA. Even though Tracy McGrady is out for the season, the Rockets have actually been better without him.

8. New Orleans Hornets
The Hornets have had a somewhat disappointing season so far but after the Tyson Chandler trade was rescinded, New Orleans has to be happy about the team’s potential. Without Chandler, the Hornets’ championship hopes would have ended.

9. Utah Jazz
The only reason why the Jazz are this low in the rankings is the injury bug. Carlos Boozer missed a large portion of the season and Deron Williams needed a while to get 100%.

10. Portland Trail Blazers
If there is a dark horse in the 2008-09 NBA championship race, that team would be the Trail Blazers. With a young and immensely talented core, the sky is the limit for Portland this season and for the upcoming seasons.

Tags: basketball, best nba teams, boston celtics, cleveland cavaliers, los angeles lakers, nba
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