The Sixers season, to me, is dependent on how Elton Brand can do this year. The Rockets are either set to do awesome or suffer the wrath of God for bringing in Ron Artest. They are two teams that, in my mind, have their chances for contending this season on one player.

 

I agree, but I think the ceiling is really high for the Rockets considering the talent they have if everyone stays healthy and Artest doesn't blow up.

 

As for the Sixers, they're not on the level with the Rockets, but they're pretty solid across the board and Brand's presence should make take the pressure off of everyone else and make them better. You never know how teams will mesh with new players (like the Celtics last year), but I like their potential if it works out.

With Kobe, Gasol and Bynum, the Lakers are the team to beat out of the West.