Amidst labor negotiations, Commissioner David Stern canceled the first two weeks of the regular season on Monday, October 10. Negotiations will continue on Tuesday, October 18, when a federal mediator will meet with both sides. If somehow a deal gets done between the owners and players, then the 2011-2012 NBA season will commence, albeit shortened. Life will go on but who really benefits from a shortened NBA season?

A rematch of the ’07-’08 Finals will sure to be a classic as it pits the NBA’s two most storied franchises against each other, Boston and Los Angeles. Kobe is on his quest for his 5th title.

A much anticipated rematch of the ’07-’08 Finals is not a sure thing. Cleveland and Orlando look strong and Denver, Dallas and Utah can challenge LA in the West.