“They don't want us to win” is a common phrase uttered by Spurs conspiracy theorists every year around playoffs time, whether referring to the referees, NBA higher-ups or network television executives who rely on marquee matchups and big-time ratings in luring high-end advertisers. Whether such a statement is valid is up for debate, though one thing is certain: The Spurs are not sexy, and they don't draw ratings. The following teams, however, are sexy and do draw ratings, so don't be surprised if each of them “magically” assembles a deep playoff run in 2008.
 

BOSTON CELTICS
SEX APPEAL: High, mostly because of the addition of Kevin Garnett and the fact that the Celtics have made the East (somewhat) relevant for the first time since the Jordan era.
THE 210 PREDICTION: May we forfeit our God-given right to get drunk on St. Patrick's Day if the Celtics don't reach the NBA Finals.

CLEVELAND CAVALIERS
SEX APPEAL: Otherworldly, for one reason: LeBron James
THE 210 PREDICTION: The Cavs will bow out in the second round, but not before playing in a much-hyped series against eventual Eastern champ Boston.

LOS ANGELES LAKERS
SEX APPEAL: Off the charts. At this point, Kobe Bryant could do something off the court — say, commit a marital indiscretion — and it would still be a national news story. Oh, wait .....
THE 210 PREDICTION: At the very least, a Western Conference finals berth. By the way, that sound you just heard was a Denver player breathing on Kobe and the resulting whistle signaling a foul.

PHOENIX SUNS
SEX APPEAL: High, mostly because of the addition of Shaq and because teams — like Phoenix — that don't play defense often end up in high-scoring, entertaining contests.
THE 210 PREDICTION: First-round exit via the Spurs. Hey, if you're going to rig the NBA playoffs, you can't be too obvious.

Clint Hale | 210SA contributor