Nba Tickets - Western Conference Playoff Prediction

Here are the teams in the Western Conference that I think will make the playoffs in 2009-10

, listed in the order of their predicted seeding.

Los Angeles Lakers: The defending champs did well to re-sign Lamar Odom this offseason; that was the most important move they made. They also picked up Ron Artest to replace the departed Trevor Ariza. While Ariza will probably be a better long term option, Artest gives the Lakers a lot of toughness and immediate impact. Artest isn't the defender that he used to be, but he is still a very capable one and one of the strongest small forwards in the game. This team is definitely the favorite to represent the conference in the Finals.

San Antonio Spurs: The Spurs had a great offseason, acquiring Richard Jefferson for ten cents on the dollar, luring Antonio McDyess via free agency and landing potential steal DeJuan Blair in the second round of the draft. The Spurs really know how to run an organization and look poised to make another push for the conference crown. Tim Duncan and Tony Parker are as steady as they come, and the new additions will definitely make a difference.

Portland Trail Blazers: The Blazers are ready to make the leap into the conference's elite echelon of teams, but they probably won't hurdle either San Antonio or Los Angeles just yet. Brandon Roy is a real star and he'll have less pressure on him in the backcourt with the addition of Andre Miller, which should allow Roy to slide to his more natural position at the two on a more permanent basis. If LaMarcus Aldridge can take the next step, the Blazers will have one of the best inside-inside combos in the league.

Dallas Mavericks: The Mavericks did everything in their power this offseason to get into a position to compete. They may just have to settle for a first-round bye as the highlight of the season, though, as they could be on the outside looking in as far as the top tier of the conference goes. They've got a lot of talent, but it remains to be seen how things gel.

Denver Nuggets: The Nuggets went on a great run last season, but it's hard to imagine them making the conference finals again. They didn't do much to get better, though I like the addition of Ty Lawson, and while other teams improved.

Utah Jazz: The Jazz have a lot of talent, but they don't really have that go-to perimeter scorer that could take them to the next level. Deron Williams is a very good point guard, and the team is filled with quality role players, but I'm not sure they're capable of making the leap.

New Orleans Hornets: The Hornets need guys to step up and take some of the load off Chris Paul's shoulders. Paul is the best point guard in the league, but he still can't win games by himself. Emeka Okafor and Julian Wright could help.

Phoenix Suns: After the Suns' brief stint as a half-court team, they returned to the high-flying offensive scheme that they've employed over the past few seasons, which will help sell NBA tickets. But will it make them that much better?

by: Brent Warnken

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