Ballin'

So as the NBA approaches the All Star break in Orlando, I figured I'd take a look at the first half of this condensed season, which I know is tiring for players but I do love seeing the highlights night after night. Let's face it, like the MLB (@MLB) the NBA (@NBA) isn't exactly over run with parody and you pretty well know who the contenders and pretenders are before the season tips off. To nobody's great surprise the Bulls and Heat are battling it out for eastern supremacy (even if Lebron eats his spaghetti with a knife and fork...) and likely will be there in the Eastern Finals. Jeremy Lin has provided the story of the year so far, being an Asian, Ivy Leaguer and playing in New York, pick your angel, but it has been a great story and he has helped the Knicks win, but I don't personally believe they are a threat to go too deep in the post season. Out west San Antonio spurred the fans in Portland the other night by resting their aging stars, but let's face it Greg Popovich only has to answer to his organization and resting older guys for games that really matter down the road is what's important, though I don't think it would have killed them to play a little if only for the kids who'd love to seem them in Portland. Also as pointed out on Around The Horn and PTI The last time there was a condensed schedule like this the Spurs won, one of their four championships, so I'll trust Pop know what he's doing. The Lakers find themselves unsure what to do with Pao Gasol to which Kobe Bryant stepped up and defended his teammate saying they needed to end this nonsense. Dwight Howard is still in Orlando, for now but how much longer will that last? And where does he go? The Boston Celtics run seems to have come to a screeching halt as father time has lapped them and then some. And the Oklahoma City Thunder lead by Kevin Durant and Brian Westbrook look like they have a real shot at the west. Steve Nash continues to play well and trade rumors have surrounded him, but hair Canada says he's loyal to the Suns and wants to stay there, though I'd like to see him get a shot at a title as I'm not sure he'll have many left. The Raptors have disappointed but key injuries have definitely had an effect and they are still a young team. On the plus side will likely get another high pick to help Brian Colangleo continue to build for the future.