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The NBA’s Opening Night this year falls on Tuesday, October 19th.  It was just over a year ago on October 11th, 2020  that the 2019-20 season ended.  The 20-21 season ran its course from December of that year until July 20th, 2021.  Three seasons overlapping 373 days.  Pretty crazy, huh? Things appear to be getting back to normal though as this season will see a full complement of 82 games.  And not to fear, the NBA’s unrivaled grasp on the title of most dramatic league in America is stronger than ever.  The title favorites are without the services of their superstar point guard while last year’s number one seed might be forced to trade theirs. And that’s just the Eastern Conference!  Here’s a preview of what to expect this year for each team along with some fanciful prognostication.

EASTERN CONFERENCE


WESTERN CONFERENCE

Conference and Finals Picks

Eastern Conference:  Brooklyn over Milwaukee (6)
Western Conference:  Lakers over Clippers (7)

Finals:  Lakers over Nets (7)

Awards

MVP:  Kevin Durant

Defensive Player of the Year:  Bam Adebayo

Most Improved Player:  Lonzo Ball

6th Man of the Year:  Tyrese Haliburton

Rookie of the Year:  Jalen Green  

Coach of the Year:  Ime Udoka