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The Leading Logic In Sports Handicapping |
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Southwest Division Preview
Something about the South has teams stacked and ready to bring it in 2005-06. In the Southeast, it is Miami, in the Southwest, of course it is San Antonio. The defending league champs reload for another run at the title this season, adding Michael Finley to the mix as free agent to bolster an already potent lineup. The Spurs won 59 games a year ago, claiming the division title by just 1 game over Dallas. The Mavericks won't go away quietly however, as they've made some more changes in the offseason, trying to establish a more focused, defense to win philosophy. Their young players are becoming bigger contributors each passing year. Meanwhile, in Houston, year two of Ming-McGrady commences with the Rockets hoping for more. F/A signee Stromile Swift is expected to join Ming to give the Rockets one of the best frontcourts in the NBA. The fourth and fifth teams in this division are a question mark. Memphis brings back an entirely different roster after losing much of its nucleus in the offseason. The Grizzlies come off back-to-back playoff sweep losses. Finally, in New Orleans, or Oklahoma City for this season, questions abound as to the makeup of the roster as well as the future home of franchise.
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1. SAN ANTONIO
An easy choice atop the West, as little has changed. Duncan is Duncan, Ginobli and Parker are quickly becoming stars. Adding Finley only boosts the scoring off the bench.
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2. HOUSTON
Swift brings athleticism to the frontcourt and Anderson should fit in nicely at guard. This team won 51 games in year one of McGrady-Ming and is on the brink of being elite.
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3. DALLAS
The Mavericks are becoming less Maverick-like each passing season, but that could be a positive. Nowitzki plus a better mix of defense and athleticism keep Dallas a contender.
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4. MEMPHIS
Eight straight losses in the playoffs, a style not befitting of the West, and losses of key contributors in the offseason. Not sure if Memphis can maintain the success of '04 & '05.
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5. NEW ORLEANS
The past year has had a catastrophic effect on the fortunes of the Hornets franchise. Off an 18-win season and without a permanent home, this team is left to flounder again in '06.
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