Instant Powerhouse?

July is almost over which means in NBA calendar that the big names have already re-signed or relocated. Well, we all know about "The Decision," but we need to look as well those little heard signings that underwent and our instant favorites this early on.

Aside from the Big 3, Boozer's arrival in Chicago makes them a beast in the East.

For the Eastern Conference, Boston will again be my favorite to win it all. Jermaine O'neal's addition beefed up the line up and a good temporary replacement to the injured Kendrick Perkins. Bench is still solid with Davis, Nate and Daniels. Orlando with its core returning is as solid as last year. Miami is 3rd on my list. Yes, they have the most talented trio but they are soft in the #1 and #5 spot which means either Rondo or Howard will abuse them if they face the Celtics or Orlando in the postseason. Chicago will win the last homecourt slot due to the acquisition of Carlos Boozer. A good lost post threat, which they lack last season, will spread up the floor for Rose' penetrations and Korver's outside shooting. And note that they are still contemplating in signing T-Mac. Waiting is Atlanta which depends if they can land Shaq. We know how the Magic overkilled them in the playoffs and Shaq will provide that inside defense for them.

These two towers health will be the key to their respective teams.

For the Western Conference, LA Lakers will be favored again to win for another 3-peat. Take this, Andrew Bynum is never at 100% during the past 3 postseason plays. Bench is thin though with only Lamar Odom giving good numbers. Oklahoma City's steady improvements will be the key. Don't be surprise if I put them behind only the Lakers and I'm beginning to be a fan of Kevin Durant. Utah is good at 3rd with the Al Jefferson acquisition. They are solid with each position. Dallas is loaded with talent and good mix of youth and experience. But they still lack that one solid crunch playmaker. Other waitings are Portland. With all the injuries last year, they still managed to win 50 games. I just hope Greg Oden is healthy. Houston with Yao Ming's return. San Antonio will still be a quality team. Can't wait what Tiago Splitter can do. Lastly, don't count Denver out. Melo is entering his peak years coupled with the healthy K-Mart, they still have a shot at it.

Can't wait to start 2010-11 season. I just hope that they release NBA 2K11 or NBA Live 11 earlier so we can play it out.