Heading into the series, we feel like we know what we have to do to beat the Lakers. We've got to come out aggressive, and do whatever we can with Shaq. We played them close all season long, but it all comes back to Shaq. I think Shaq and Kobe are going to get theirs, but as long as we limit Kobe as much as we can, we should be okay. Eliminating Glen Rice will be key, too.

I felt comfortable going into my first playoffs last year, and I feel the same way now. We're pretty much in the same boat as we were a year ago in the way that we don't have anything to lose. So we're just trying to go out and have fun, and whatever happens, happens. Obviously, it's going to be a tough series, but if we play hard and stay aggressive, we can win.

WESTERN CONFERENCE

Utah vs. Seattle

I'm going to take Utah. They've got home court advantage, and it's tough to beat the Jazz in Utah.

Portland vs. Minnesota

Before Game 1, I might have picked this one differently. But because of the way Scottie Pippen played, I'll go with the Blazers. They're tough at home, too.

San Antonio vs. Phoenix

I like Phoenix. A lot of people like the Spurs, but without Tim Duncan, it's going to be tough for them. I also like the Suns because of the way they get out and run. Every time we play the Spurs, that's what we do, and they have a tough time.

EASTERN CONFERENCE

Indiana vs. Milwaukee

I like Milwaukee. They're my sleeper. Every one looks at me like I'm crazy when I say that. But I really like how they're so athletic. If it goes five games, Indiana's going to be in trouble.

Miami vs. Detroit

Miami. No doubt about it.

New York vs. Toronto

I'm going to go with New York just because they've been there before. There's also all that hoopla around Vince, and that's going to be a lot of pressure on him to do well. When he does bad, that's going to be even harder on him.

Charlotte vs. Philadelphia

I'm going to go with Philly, just because Charlotte is C-Web's sleeper, so I'm going against him.

NBA FINALS

I like New York in the East. It's the last go-around with Pat Ewing, and I think that adds a little extra motivation for everybody. And of course I like us in the West.