Luka’s Corner

In the Playoffs, there are amazing performances each year (not to use the NBA slogan). Whether it be incredible team play or eye-popping dominant performances by the game’s stars, there are always those must-sees. Going back to the team play of the Boston Celtics last year and that of the San Antonio Spurs the year before that or the individual play of Kobe Bryant and LeBron James the past two years, the postseason truly is a special time for basketball fans. Here are this year’s things to watch out for:

Dominance of Los Angeles Lakers and Cleveland Cavaliers

Like the C’s and Spurs the past two years, look for the Lakers and Cavs to continue the superior team play that is necessary to win on the biggest stage. The stage is set for the two best teams in the league to show just how deep and talented they are.

The Attempt at a Green Repeat

Despite the loss of their vocal leader and defensive stopper, the Celtics will try to build upon their championship year last season and reach the Finals once again. Doc Rivers and the Boston coaching staff have preached the meaning of the word "ubuntu" and how to deal with adversity. There is no greater adversity than the loss of Kevin Garnett.

Individual Rivalries

The big talk will be about the potential Kobe vs. LeBron duel in the final round, reminiscent of the Larry Bird vs. Dominique Wilkins duel or Michael Jordan vs. Magic Johnson/Charles Barkley/Larry Bird. But do not forget other individual battles, such as Brandon Roy vs. Ron Artest or Dwyane Wade vs. Joe Johnson in the preliminary round.

Emergence of a Superstar

Every year, there is a chance for a star on the verge of becoming a superstar to make a name for himself on the biggest stage. Like LeBron against Detroit in ‘07 or D-Wade in ‘06, look for a player like Brandon Roy or Carmelo Anthony to emerge as not only a rising star, but a true superstar. In this discussion, Dwight Howard’s name must also be mentioned because he has the tools around him to make a deep postseason run.

The Last Stand of the Alamo

With its aging roster and the injury to Manu Ginobili, this is San Antonio’s last shot at the title. If the Spurs have any chance to upset the Denver Nuggets and Los Angeles Lakers, Tony Parker will have to have a phenomenal postseason.

Offense vs. Defense

In virtually all previous Playoffs, the team that could stop the other team from scoring won in the end. This season, both the Lakers and Cavs have shown they can score at will, but it will be the team that can defend that will emerge victorious. Do not expect an offensive battle deep in the Playoffs.

Any Chance for an Upset?

I do not see any major upsets happening, but, as in all sports tournaments, watch out for the lower seeds. A team like the New Orleans Hornets or Philadelphia 76ers could potentially make some noise in the postseason. Any team with a superstar who could go off (like Chris Paul) or an athletic team who plays a up-and-down style (like the 76ers) could upset a higher seed. Just ask Dirk Nowitzki and the Dallas Mavericks what happened with Baron Davis and the Golden State Warriors in ‘07.

Battle of the Big Men

Remembering Shaquille O’Neal’s postseason run in the early portion of the decade, this tournament could prove to be run by the centers of the league. It is time for both Yao Ming and Dwight Howard to make names for themselves when it really matters. Also, look for the Lakers to dominate with Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum.

The Last Hurrah

For those aging superstars who have already made a name for themselves in the postseason, this year could be their last run. Do not be surprised if this is the last time you see a Kobe Bryant or Tim Duncan at the biggest stage, as they are getting up there in years.

Home Court Advantage

If home court will prove to play as big a role in the Playoffs as predicted, do not be surprised that a team riding that momentum on their home floor makes some noise. For example, a team like the Portland Trailblazers or Denver Nuggets could surprise some with their play at home. Just remember the Boston Celtics last year.