Dave Betancourt | Sports Section Manager

Things to look forward to this NBA season:

1. Michael Jordan- His debut in Madison Square Garden wasn’t the points bonanza people were expecting but hey he’s still MJ and he demands your respect.
2. The Eastern Conference- Dubbed a joke by the inhabitants of the western conference it looks like things could be interesting this year. Orlando, Philly, Milwaukee and Miami will be in a dog fight all year for the top spot. It should be fun to watch.
3. The Lakers- As sick as this sounds it looks like they could be even better than last year. Yes I know that’s a sick thought, but it could be true.
4. Cornrows- Ah yes, and you thought the afro was controversial in the 60’s and 70’s (hey don’t ask me I was born in 80), let’s see how many suburbanites get ticked off this year.
5. Zone defense- The new rules allow double teams in the paint, basically a zone if you will. It was supposed to stop individual antics but people like Shaq and MJ will find a way around it.

Eastern Conference:

Tracy McGrady: If you think McGrady had his coming out party last year, wait until this year. He will definitely contend for MVP and have the Magic in contention all year long.

Western Conference:

Kobe Bryant: Gets better every year. The scary thing is he’s only 23. He’s years from his prime.

Best Team in the East: Orlando Magic

Best Team in the West: L.A. Lakers