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TSN Basketball Analyst

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FIVE QUICK NBA THOUGHTS:     

1. NBA GM's PICK RAPTORS TO WIN THE ATLANTIC DIVISION: How's this for some earned respect? Can they do it? Yes, but far from easy. The Nets and Knicks will be the main competition, yet I think if they stay healthy and humble, they can win the division in back-to-back years for the first time. Bottom line, this year is all about improvement and getting back to the playoffs and peaking at the right time (mid-April 2015) to make a run at winning a series and then let it all hang out from there. Keep getting better. Hopefully, an enjoyable ride.

2. JABARI PARKER and ANDREW WIGGINS: On Wednesday, they hook up for a preseason game and the first of many NBA meetings between these two potential stars. I like Parker to win the Rookie of the Year. I think his game is more polished and refined at this stage of his career but I think Wiggins has more long-term potential. It's not where you start but where you finish 10, 12 years from now. Both will be a blast to watch.

3. NIKOLA VUCEVIC (Magic): Smart move getting this youngster locked up to a long-term deal. I like how hard he plays and his effectiveness both facing up and with his back to the basket. He's a major bright spot and recipient in the Dwight Howard trade. Gotta get value back in those transactions and I feel that he's a good fit for this young squad.

4. KEVIN DURANT (Thunder): Patience is key. I like what he's saying. Steady as she goes. He loves to play so much he's the classic guy that rushes back but I'm glad he's going to make sure that he's right before returning to action. His team will hang around and stay competitive in his absence - the keys is having him for the last 75-80 per cent of the season and the playoffs. Might be a blessing in disguise for him.

5. NBA LOTTERY REVISION REJECTED: Lots of chatter out there that the League was going to change the format and it makes complete sense to me. Something has to be done to make sure that teams aren't giving it their best to improve. I'm surprised that the vote failed. Usually a league as smart as the NBA doesn't have a vote on something like this until it's got all the votes it needs to make this happen. Odd decision.