by Ric S

Created on: March 08, 2007   Last Updated: October 31, 2008

It is just about 2 months away from the NBA playoffs and while we are yet to see the players' performances in playoff games, we can at least point out which players have the greatest impact to their team's success so far. There are many good and talented players in the NBA, but I will only list out those that have made their team a contender for championship.

5. Chris Bosh (Toronto Raptors, F/C) Unlike the attention that fellow 2003 draftees Lebron, Melo and Wade get, Chris Bosh has been quietly averaging a double-double this season (22.8 ppg and 10.4 rebs). A change in management and some trades in the off-season have the raptors playing a different style of game this season and Bosh has really stepped up being the anchor of the team's offense and defense. So far, it has made them one of the top teams in the relatively weak Eastern conference.

4. Kobe Bryant (Los Angeles Lakers, G) Even with a lineup of mostly role players, the Lakers have remained competitive and among the leaders in the Western conference. It is fair to attribute part of that success to Phil Jackson's leadership and to the effectiveness of triangle offense. Nevertheless, no one can deny that it is Kobe's playmaking that is really making the Lakers win games. Kobe remains as the most potent offensive player in the league one who can score 82 points easily in a game. This year, Kobe's maturity and willingness to trust his teammates have made the Lakers as the most dangerous team in the playoffs.

3. Tim Duncan (San Antonio Spurs, F/C) Although the Spurs have somewhat fallen off the radar, they are still the best team to execute half court offense and play intense lockdown defense. At the heart of most of their plays is The Big Fundamental. Tim Duncan is still the most efficient and dominant center on the league, and when the game truly matters, expect him to produce whatever the team needs.

2. Steve Nash (Phoenix Suns, PG) The two-time MVP is at it again. Steve Nash is the engine that drives the high-octane offense of the Suns. Shooting at 53% from the field, 48% in 3-point range and averaging 11.7 assists, it is virtually impossible to stop Nash. Although the Sun's defense is left to be desirable, no other team can really keep up to their fast and high-scoring offense. All of that is only possible because Suns have a point guard as capable as Nash.

1. Dirk Nowitzki (Dallas Mavericks, F) The Dallas Mavericks are only a Dwayne Wade heroic away from getting the championship last season. This year, they are even hungrier for that title and the teamwork is much better. Dirk Nowitzki is the heart and soul of this team, and he seems to be more than ready to accept his responsibility and give Mark Cuban his very first championship.

These players are doing the best for their teams this season. As to who will be the best among them, we can only see that by the way they can rise up their level of play during playoffs. One thing for sure, it's going to be a fun, exciting and intense April and May for us hoops fans!

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