Four Wins Away

Only one can call themselves champion. The other thirty-one, unfortunately, cannot. While pretending not to acknowledge the past, the champion of 2008 Boston Celtics and defending champion Los Angeles Lakers attempt to focus solely on game one of the NBA Finals.

In brevity, this series match up will be dependent on defensive intensity. The fact that Lakers center Andrew Bynum had fluid drained from his knee and his progress in mobility still didn't improve has to be a non-factor. The monumental-like presence of Celtics Kevin Garnett and Kendrick Perkins in the front court cannot phase Pau Gasol following elbow after elbow to the ribs and chest. The athletic prowess on both ends of the court by guard Rajon Rondo must not be a problem.

Key components must be present in order for the Lakers to repeat as champion. If not, 2010's version of the NBA Finals could end with Boston winning in six games like two years ago.

However, according to number twenty-four, this series could also end with Lakers in seven as well.