Championship possibilities San An vs Motown: Detroit is definitely having a championship year and they're playing with something to prove. They not only swept the season series with the Spurs this year, they whooped 'em in both games. They've kinda stumbled a bit the past couple of months (no more beating Bulls' record, and 70 might be a stretch), but they're still the team to beat. They are--in most NBA enthusiasts' minds--the very definition of team basketball. From Chauncey to Ben, and onto the bench with Dyessman and Delfino. They didn't lose any of their defensive intensity from the age of Larry Brown, and added the more western-style high-octane coaching of Flip. Plus, each and every one of their starters are having career years, I think, if not statistically then effeciency.
But you can't discount San Antonio, and you'd be a fool if you did. 3 Championships 7 seasons I think? That isn't the same kind of dynasty that the Bulls or recent-Lakers, but it's still something to keep in mind. If Duncan can get healthy they'd be a force to reckon with. Parker's having the best season of his young career, and Manu will always cause havoc on the defense. Add on key pieces in Finley, Van Exel, Barry, and other bench players and you've got a very good shot at the trophy. Don't be surprised if it's Spurs/Pistons again this year with the way both teams are playing.
Dallas is and always has been an awesome regular season team. If they can tighten up their defense by the playoffs they'd definitely have a shot. HOWEVER, with the way the playoff tree is set up they're looking to play San Antonio in the SECOND ROUND. Don't expect to see Dallas to reach the conference finals unless they pull off a miracle and overcome Spurs' defense.
The rest of the field is pretty even right now, I mean, among all the possible contenders. If Phoenix reaches the conference finals, Nash is a shoe-in for MVP. With what he's done with the pieces he's got this season, and the loss of Amare for possibly the entire year, he and Marion both lead the Suns to the no. 2 spot in the West. He'll repeat for sure if they get to the Conference Finals, which I think they will since Dallas and San Antonio are the only real roadblocks, and possibly the Clippers.