I know, I know, I am biased, but I still think this will be the Houston Rockets' year. Why?
1) They made the playoffs last year without Yao Ming, who was missing during most of their 22 game winning streak. Yao is back, and he is healthy. Dikembe Mutombo started at center while Ming was out last year, and he did an excellent job. He would be a starter on most teams, but is the backup center for the Rockets, and an excellent player to spell Ming during the game. If Yao gets into foul trouble, in comes a fresh Mutombo, who is also a monster on the boards. Say it again Dikembe.....
Dikembe Mutombo - "Not in my house. Get that **** out of here."
**Mutombo wags his finger**
2) Tracy McGrady? Enough said.
3) Ron Artest - Acquired in the off season. Very solid numbers. You are looking at another Rockets superstar here. His antics of the past are now behind him.
4) Steve Francis - He sat out last season with an injury. Francis will be ready this year, although he won't be 100% until about 4 weeks into the season. He has the potential to put up McGrady-like numbers. Key is does he have the heart? I think he does this year. He is pumped, and in excellent shape, unlike last year, when he showed up to camp overweight, ending up with his injury before the season even started.
5) Brent Barry - Acquired from San Antonio to add some more depth to an already deep bench.
6) Finally, don't forget Luis Scola. He was a rookie last year, and played like a pro. He ain't a rookie this year.
Add Artest, Francis, and Barry to an already overtalented team, with Yao Ming back at 100%, and you have a juggernaut.
This is an extremely dangerous team, folks. The Houston Rockets are going to take it all.
Re: Who wins the NBA Championship this year? 
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