NBA starts tonight

Here we go again. Another year of NBA basketball, coming on the heels of one of the best playoffs ever, complete with last second heroics and largely competitive matches. What can we look forward to in 2006 - 2007.

Look for breakout years for Danny Granger, Antoine Wright and Deron Williams. All were high draft selections a year ago and all are ready for prime time. They will be stars by the time this year ends.

Look for the Chicago Bulls to be the "team" in the East. I truly believe they have the goods to represent the East in the NBA finals come June (2007). Great guard play, depth upfront, and a defense anchored by Ben Wallace. They are the best team in the East in terms of overall balance.

If Amare Stoudamire can regain the bulk of his explosiveness, I see Phoenix coming out of the West, and, failing that, look for San Antonio to win the West. Frankly, under that scenario, the Bulls could win it all.

Watch for Shaq to continue his fall and while Wade will keep this team near the top, thought needs to be given to the future of the Heat without Shaq.

I still don't love Cleveland and while they remain one of the top 5 teams in a weak East, I don't see them going any further than last year.

As for the Raptors, I see them winning at least 30 games, entertaining the diminishing fan base in Toronto, and setting the tone for many years of success. Watch for Anthony Parker and TJ Ford to become the glue that makes this team competitive.

Time to come out of hibernation.

Toronto Raptors - 2006-2007

As pre-season training has begun, this should be an interesting year for the Raps.

With all the changes on court and the installation of a new General manager, the raptors will be a very different team than Toronto fans have seen in the past. Numerous media in the city feel that the Raptors are headed in the right direction but that may not show itself by the number of wins they get this year. I disagree.

I would be surprised if the Raptors didn't win 40 games this year and be in contention for a playoff spot all year. They are better up front and finally have a point guard in TJ Ford who is the first legitimate point guard that this franchise has ever had They have good depth up front and if Calderone plays like he did in the World Championships, they will have a suitable backup at the point guard position.

The guy I say to look out for is Kris Humphries. Obtained in a trade for Rafael Araujo, he could be the surprise of the year. A big body who can run the floor and score, and if given the minutes (he'll have to fight to earn them) he could have a breakout year and become a regular in the rotation setting the Raptors up to make trades in the off season next year.

This team is certainly on the rise. Will Toronto fans buy in? YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!