[llperez]

I might put them 3rd right now in the west just barley ahead of Denver and Dallas. But I think the Spurs will be stronger next year with Ginobli back and adding RJ as well as the continued development of guys like Bonner, Mason and Hill. Throw in two of the best players in the league in Duncan and Parker. And the Lakers should clearly be the favorites right now. So that leaves Portland battling it out with Denver and Dallas for third.