I'll play:
Agreed on the Lakers. I see them making the playoffs as the 8 seed, as I don't expect the Clippers to hold on.
That said, I think both the Kings and Timberwolves will both push the Lakers HARD, and I wouldn't be surprised if either of those two teams, particularly my Wolves, edges them out. I think its unlikely, based on the difficulty of the Kings and Wolves' schedules, however. My guess is Lakers - 8, Wolves - 9, Kings - 10.
Back East, I think its going to be:
1. Milwaukee
2. Toronto
3. Boston
4. Philadelphia
5. Indiana
6. Brooklyn
7. Charlotte
8. Detroit
>>>Predictions - Brooklyn takes Boston to 6 or 7. There is something about the Nets that I think is just gritty and determined, and if healthy, they are going to push the Cs hard.
Ultimately, again, if healthy, I see Philly or Milwaukee coming out of the East.
NBA Finals - Warriors vs. Sixers -- and it'll go seven.