1. Dallas Mavericks -- Defending Western champs have their star, Dirk Nowitzki, re-signed, and they are primed for a return trip to the finals.

2. Cleveland Cavaliers -- We couldn’t possibly place our pick to win it all any lower than two in our early NBA Power Rankings. LeBron James and a healthy Larry Hughes are ready to step into the big-time.

3. Phoenix Suns -- We are blown away by the offensive capabilities of this group of thoroughbreds. Last year, they could drop 140 points on a team at any time. This year, their best player, Amare Stoudamire, is back, and Steve Nash could win the NBA MVP again.