When will the East be able to compete with the West again?

Kim · Jun 15, 2000

2 years? 5 years? Ever?

I believe that any of the top four Western teams can be champions. If you take a look at the western playoff starters, about 18 of them have moved from East to West in the last 7 years. Many of them are stars too. Shaq, Kobe-originally drafted by Cha, Rice, Harper, Pippen, Stoudamire, Smith, Wallace, Penny, Longly, Googs, Webber, Divac, Nick Anderson, Baker, Brandon, Joe Smith. Damn!!! That's like 18 playoff starters!!! Now how many playoff starters in the east are from the west? Sam, Snow, EJones, Campbell, Mash, Marjle, Spreewell. Less than 10.

My point, Eastern stars have migrated west, and most western stars have stayed. Thus, the East really is weaker than the West. So, my question is when will that change, and what will have to happen? Are FA's who want a shot at the ring gonna go East where they think there's a better chance?

Or are things going to get more imbalanced? The top 3 Eastern teams this year are old and aging. Until more good players go East, the finals are only going to be a ceremony for the Western champ, starting now.

Almu · Jun 15, 2000

Kim,

In my opinion, Duncan heads East to play in Orlando and we got some good games between him and Shaq on their way. Also, I think Philly is a good young team on their way. They might be a player away from really contending. They have alot of great athletes on that team.

And, if McGrady goes to Orlando also and teams with Duncan, that would be good enough to offset Shaq/Kobe.

Its all a cycle. The Bulls were first. Then the Rockets. Then the Bulls again. Now, the Lakers...and the Rockets in 2002!

DEANBCURTIS · Jun 15, 2000

With recent players switching teams and retiring the Rockets can benefit from this is the West. With the Jazzholes done and Duncan leaving that frees up two more spots in the playoffs. I would not be surprised if the Rockets finish at the 6th seed next year. Especially in the Midwest, next year the T-Wolves will be the Rockets only tough divisonal competitor.
Here is my 2000-2001 Midwest

1.Wolves
2.Rockets
3.Mavericks
4.Nuggets
5.Grizzlies
6.Jazz
7.Spurs
Then again this all going on the presumption that Malone, Stock retire and Duncan leaves. Still the competition looks weak.

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When will the East be able to compete with the West again?

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