1) Philadelphia 76ers:(7-0) They have the poster child for the hip-hop generation in Allen Iverson, but the Philly is winning the old fashion way: with great defense. Iverson is a threat for 40 on any night. With Alonzo Mourning out for the Heat, they could represent the Eastern Conference this year.

2) Portland Trailblazers:(5-3) They have probably the best overall player in the NBA in Rasheed Wallace and are stacked with good veterans. That doesn't mean squat though if they can't beat the Lakers in the playoffs.

3) Los Angeles Lakers: (4-3) So what if they're struggling: they're the friggin' Lakers. Shaq and Kobe will pick up the slack, and Phil Jackson is the best coach in the game.

4) Indiana Pacers: (4-2) They got a lot younger over the off-season through trades and could be Philly's only real challenge this year.