With the East so wide open this game could be an early feature of two teams that could make some noise in the conference.  The Detroit Pistons are still looking like one of the top defensive units in the league, but they are also starting to get a little up there in age.  Power Forward Rasheed Wallace is entering his 12th NBA season, and will be counted on to score a little more than usual.  Wallace, while known for his ability to earn technical fouls is actually more known for his willingness to take a lesser roll so his teammates can shine.  Chauncey Billups and Richard Hamilton are also back.  Both of them are largely considered to be two of the most underrated players in the league. 

The Miami Heat will have to start the season without superstar Dwayne Wade.  It is unknown when Wade will return from his shoulder injury, but stepping into his starting position will be NBA vet Ricky Davis.  With the absence of Wade, this means that the aging Shaquille O’Neal will have to step up his production.  If they could also get some production from bench players such as Penny Hardaway and Smush Parker, it will give some relief to the Heat as they wait to get healthy.

It’s hard to predict NBA games so early, but with the injuries to the Heat, I feel the Pistons will win this one even though they are playing in Miami. 

Ray Allen, Kevin Garnett, and Paul Pierce, sounds like an all-star team, doesn’t it?  Well, it isn’t, it’s the new look Boston Celtics.  To be a Boston area sports fan now would probably be considered the new fad of the season.  The Boston Red Sox have won another World Series, New England is beating everyone in their path, and the Celtics have a team they can be proud of.  With Allen at shooting guard, Garnett at power forward, and Paul Pierce at small forward the only concern they have is who will run the offense.  Currently, Rajon Rondo is slated to play the point guard position, but Eddie House is waiting in the wings.  Either of these players would just be expected to get the ball to the superstars, while limiting their own mistakes.  Center may also be a problem as Kendrick Perkins is the starter, but rumors are Garnett could play some center, opening other problems, but at least they have the talent they’ve craved since the years of Larry Bird.

The Wizards aren’t a bad team themselves though.  With Gilbert Arenas back, they are a threat to beat anyone at anytime.  About halfway through the season last year the Wizards actually held the best record in the east, before the injury bug bit.  Antawn Jamison is still a top player in the league, and Carron Butler has become one of the more improved players over the last few years.

This will be first time fans get to see the new and improved Celtics.  I think the Celtics will win, but I wouldn’t be surprised if Arenas and company spoil the party. 

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