And what does this season hold? It’ll be hard to top last season, which was an extremely memorable one. The Miami Heat, with their newly-formed superstar trio of LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh dominated the headlines going into the season and throughout the season, but in the end, it was Dirk Nowitzki and the Dallas Mavericks who got to celebrate with the Larry O’Brien Trophy, as they outlasted the favored Heat in six games in the NBA Finals.

Along the way, the Chicago Bulls, led by MVP Derrick Rose, posted the league’s best record, a new star was born in L.A. in Blake Griffin, Kevin Durant and Oklahoma City improved upon a fantastic 2009/10 season by winning 55 games and advancing to the Western Conference finals, #8 seed Memphis stunned #1 seed San Antonio in the first round of the playoffs, and there was a blockbuster trade as Carmelo Anthony went from the Denver Nuggets to the New York Knicks in late February.

However, this season could very well top last season, as there are several teams who could conceivably be championship contenders, star faces in new places, and a bevy of young stars who are getting better and better.

But of all of the things to look out for this season, the one at the top of many people’s lists right now is whether or not the revamped Los Angeles Clippers will emerge as a serious contender in a stacked West.

Given the Clippers’ history of, well, being the Clippers, it’s hard not to be a skeptic or still chuckle at the idea of the Clips being a legitimate contender for something other than a lottery pick. But though it might be premature to say that the balance of power has shifted in L.A. – because until further notice, the Lakers should be considered contenders – the Clippers have the potential to outclass their rivals this season and have a season that’s unforgettable for all of the right reasons for once.

The Clippers were going to be a fun team to watch this season, no matter what, with Griffin and co. using the force on many basketball hoops around the country. But with the addition of perhaps the league’s best point guard in Chris Paul, who they acquired from the New Orleans Hornets in a massive trade earlier this month, the Clippers are set to make some real noise in the W column for once.

They did have to give up a considerable amount to get Paul, in shooting guard Eric Gordon, fresh off of averaging 22.3 points per game in his third NBA season, a quality and experienced (but injury-prone) big man in Chris Kaman, and forward Al-Farouq Aminu, who was their first-round pick in the 2010 NBA Draft. But to get the best, you have to make sacrifices, and those sacrifices will prove to be worth it.

And Paul wasn’t the only quality addition they made in the shortened off-season. They landed veteran guard and five-time All-Star Chauncey Billups off of waivers after the Knicks used their amnesty clause on him, and they also snagged forward Caron Butler, who penned a three-year, $24 million deal. Along with being able to chip in 15+ points per game, Billups will provide valuable leadership and knows what it’s like to play and win in the playoffs. And Butler, if he can stay healthy throughout the season (he’s never played more than 78 games in any of his previous NBA seasons), he will also make a big, big impact.

Also, perhaps a little lost in everything else that’s happened in a busy month for the Clippers is their retention of center DeAndre Jordan. Jordan signed an offer sheet with Golden State that was reportedly worth four years and $40+ million, but the Clippers matched the offer, and they’ll be glad they did. Jordan averaged a career-high 7.1 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game last season, but those numbers will rise this season. While Griffin is a destructive force in the middle, Jordan will be a disruptive one.

So, the Clippers definitely have a starting lineup that can play with and beat the best of the best, and they also will have some solid pieces coming off of the bench, including young point guard Eric Bledsoe, who was originally set to be part of the Paul trade but ultimately wasn’t dealt.

There’s no doubt that the Clippers can seriously contend this season, but will they? Oklahoma City might be the favorite in the West, the defending champion Mavericks can’t be dismissed, and neither can the Lakers and Spurs. But the West is certainly up for grabs, and if the Clippers click like they seem to be already, they’ll rack up the highlights, but more importantly, they’ll rack up the wins.

With Derrick Rose, Lebron James, Dwyane Wade, and the ‘other’ member of Miami’s star-studded cast, Chris Bosh, the series between the Chicago Bulls and Miami Heat is without a doubt a must-see, and there’s a good chance we’ll be seeing this matchup at this stage on a regular basis over the next several seasons.

However, the Western Conference finals has its own star power, and it was on full display in Game 1 on Tuesday night, as the Dallas Mavericks outlasted the Oklahoma City Thunder 121-112.

It could well have been called the Dirk Nowitzki and Kevin Durant show, as the stars for both teams were at their most explosive. Durant, the NBA’s scoring champion each of the last two seasons, followed up his 39-point effort in Game 7 of the conference semifinals against Memphis with his third 40-point performance of the postseason in the opener against Dallas. Durant hit 10 of 18 shots from the field, including two of five 3-pointers, and was almost perfect from the free-throw line, going 18 of 19 from the stripe on the way to a 40-point, eight-rebound night.

However, as unstoppable as Durant was, it wasn’t enough, as his best wasn’t enough to overcome Nowitzki’s best. Nowitzki put his team on his back and was absolutely amazing, leading the way with an astounding 48 points, hitting 12 of 15 shots and an even more incredible 24 of 24 free throws.

If Game 1 is any indication, tonight’s showdown in Dallas will be one that will have viewers glued to the action from start to finish, which we can’t say for last night’s Game 2 between Miami and Chicago, which saw an absolutely atrocious offensive display from both sides in the fourth quarter.

There are few gimmes in sports betting, but if I were putting any money down on the second episode of the Dirk and Durant Show, I’d be all over the over, because I don’t see either team playing too much defense, and I don’t see either superstar slowing down.

But will the Thunder be able to go back to Oklahoma City with the series knotted at 1? The answer might not lie in whether or not they slow down Nowitzki, but if Russell Westbrook can bounce back from a poor showing in Game 1. He did score 20 points, but he was only 3 of 15 from the field, and the assist machine had only three on the night.

If he can bring his best tonight, the Thunder will be in it to the end, but whatever the case, you can certainly expect big numbers on the scoreboard on both sides in Big D tonight.

Wherever James is this fall and beyond, the demand for NBA tickets will be tremendous at home and on the road, but many have speculated that his decision could well hinge on how far Cleveland goes in the playoffs this season.

Cleveland made deals in the offseason and during the season to acquire Shaquille O’Neal and Antwan Jamison to bolster the supporting cast and take some of the load off of LeBron’s shoulders. And while James is still the main attraction and #1 difference maker, he needs that supporting cast to deliver when it matters for the Cavs to realize their full potential.

Judging by Cleveland’s 96-83 win over Chicago in the opener of their first-round series yesterday, they’re well on the right track to doing so.

LeBron was a stats machine as usual, scoring 24 points, grabbing six rebounds, and dishing out five assists, and he also registered four blocks and a steal on the defensive end.

However, that was just part of an overall splendid team effort on Cleveland’s part. Along with James’ par-for-the-course contributions, Mo Williams (19 points, 10 assists, four rebounds), Jamison (15 points, 10 rebounds, three blocks), O’Neal (12 points, five rebounds, four assists, three blocks), and Anderson Varejao (eight points, 15 rebounds, two steals) all stepped up big.

Cleveland out-rebounded the Bulls 50-38, totaled 27 assists, blocked 12 shots, scored 18 points off of turnovers, and outscored Chicago 42-26 in the paint.

It wasn’t all perfect, as they shot only 26% from three (6 of 23) and committed 18 turnovers, but some mistakes can be forgiven, as the Cavs took control midway through the first quarter and coasted from there.

The opponents will get tougher from here on, but the Bulls are a familiar opponent and thusly a tough one, and it was important for Cleveland to start strong and make a statement. They did just that, and if those kinds of team performances continue over the next several weeks, Cleveland will have at least one thing to celebrate this summer, if not more.

Cleveland, the league’s only 50-win team so far, has already clinched a playoff spot, and appear to have the number one overall seed in the East locked up for the second consecutive year.

The Nets, on the other hand, are on the verge of losing their 60th game of the season.

Take that, Cavs!

1. Cleveland Cavaliers (52-15, Last Week: 2)

The Cavs have won three straight, and have survived minor injury scares to both LeBron James and Antawn Jamison in the past week.

They’re way ahead of the pack out East, and anything short of an appearance in the Finals would be even more disappointing than last season.

2. Orlando Magic (47-21, Last Week: 3)

Orlando was rolling before losing at home to Charlotte Sunday.

Rashard Lewis and Jameer Nelson were dreadful that night, combining for just seven points on awful 3-17 shooting, including 1-9 from three-point range.

3. Dallas Mavericks (45-22, Last Week: 1)

The Mavs’ streak was stopped in shocking fashion Saturday night, with a 128-94 drubbing at home at the hands of the Knicks.

Dallas was outscored in each quarter that night, including 70-46 in the second half.

4. Los Angeles Lakers (49-18, Last Week: 5)

The defending champs have won three straight, but it hasn’t been easy.

They beat Toronto by two, Phoenix by six, and Golden State by three.

5. Denver Nuggets (45-22, Last Week: 4)

The Nuggets just had their six-game winning streak snapped by blowing a game in Houston Monday night by a score of 125-123.

It was the first time all season that Denver had lost a game in which they scored at least 110 points.

6. Milwaukee Bucks (36-29, Last Week: 11)

Those crazy Bucks are rolling, and have won six straight as of Tuesday.

They’re spry, young, and energetic, and could spell deep trouble for the aging Boston Celtics should they meet in the first round of the playoffs.

7. Oklahoma City Thunder (41-24, Last Week: 10)

Speaking of hot teams, OKC is just about as hot as anybody right now, having notched wins in each of their last five games.

Second-year guard Russell Westbrook is becoming a triple-double threat each and every night, and is averaging 19 points, nine assists, and six rebounds during the streak.

8. Atlanta Hawks (42-23, Last Week: 9)

Atlanta just keeps chugging along under the radar, and sits a half-game ahead of Boston for the third spot in the East.

That will be a very important race down the stretch, as whomever wins the third seed gets to avoid a potential matchup with Cleveland until the Eastern Conference Finals.

9. Charlotte Bobcats (34-31, Last Week: 16)

On the outside looking in a week ago, the Bobcats have rallied to win six in a row and have vaulted up to sixth in the East.

They’re scrappy enough to earn the label of “A team nobody wants to play come playoff time.”

10. Utah Jazz (43-24, Last Week: 6)

The Jazz, despite consecutive losses to perhaps the two hottest teams in the league (Milwaukee and OKC), are still right in the mix for the coveted second or third seed in the West.

Carlos Boozer has been having a great season, and it’ll be interesting to see what happens to Utah if he ends up leaving as a free agent this summer.

Luckily for them, it certainly doesn’t hurt that they hold the Knicks’ upcoming lottery pick.

11. Phoenix Suns (41-26, Last Week:

After losing a tough one at home to the Lakers, the Suns were able to rebound and easily beat the slumping Hornets Sunday.

Amar’e Stoudemire has upped his game in a major way since the trade deadline, and is averaging 31 points and 11 rebounds per game over the last five.

12. San Antonio Spurs (39-25, Last Week: 12)

Surprisingly, the Spurs haven’t missed a beat without Tony Parker, as George Hill has stepped right into the starting point guard duties and has helped them to three straight wins.

He should get some dark-horse consideration for the Most Improved Player Award as his numbers continue to rise.

13. Portland Trail Blazers (41-28, Last Week: 14)

Like the Spurs, the Blazers are playing their best basketball of the season at the right time.

With the way Nate McMillan has been able to keep his team in the playoff picture despite a vast array of injuries all season long, he should be the favorite for Coach of the Year.

14. Boston Celtics (42-24, Last Week: 7)

The C’s have lost three of five, with the three losses coming against teams in the playoff hunt and the two wins coming over doormats.

They’ll certainly be tested in the next week, as four of their next five are against Houston, Dallas, Utah, and Denver.

15. Miami Heat (35-32, Last Week: 13)

The inconsistent Heat currently hold a tenuous three-game lead over the ninth place Bulls.

The next two weeks will be crucial, as they’ll face Charlotte, Chicago, and Milwaukee as they all battle for playoff spots.

16. Houston Rockets (34-31, Last Week: 18)

Calling the Rockets’ playoff chances anything other than “slim” at this point would be a stretch, but they’ve been playing some good basketball lately and have won three straight games.

Luis Scola has been a man possessed in the last week, averaging 27 points and 13 rebounds per game.

They’re currently five games behind the eight-place Blazers.

17. Memphis Grizzlies (35-32, Last Week: 17)

Memphis is tied with Houston for ninth in the West, and the playoffs seem almost out of reach.

However, this season has been an enormously surprising success no matter what happens down the stretch, and Lionel Hollins is another solid Coach of the Year candidate.

18. Toronto Raptors (32-33, Last Week: 15)

19. Chicago Bulls (31-34, Last Week: 20)

I’d put these two teams closer to the bottom if they weren’t “fighting it out” for the final playoff spot in the East.

The Raptors have lost five in a row, and the Bulls have dropped seven straight.

It’s almost as if they’re trying to get the NBA to change its playoff structure in order to allow the 16 best records to qualify.

Good luck to whichever team snags that playoff spot, as they’ll be rewarded by a prompt four-game sweep at the hands of LeBron’s Cavaliers.

20. New Orleans Hornets (33-35, Last Week: 19)

Rookie point guard Darren Collison continues his amazing play with Chris Paul watching from the bench.

He’s averaging 14 points and 13 assists in his last five games, including a nice 20-assist effort in a win over the Warriors last week.

21. New York Knicks (24-43, Last Week: 21)

The “Still waiting for 2010″‘s have looked great in their last two games, both wins.

They avenged a 50-point loss to Dallas earlier in the season by halting the Mavs’ 13-game winning streak in dominating fashion Saturday night.

Second-year forward Bill Walker has emerged as a solid, if still inconsistent, player since being acquired from Boston at the deadline.

22. Detroit Pistons (23-44, Last Week: 22)

The Pistons play the Cavs twice and the Pacers twice in their next four games.

…and that’s just about everything interesting I have here.

23. Sacramento Kings (23-44, Last Week: 25)

Remember when the Kings got off to that solid start in November and December?

They won 14 games over the course of those two months, but have won just nine in the two-plus months since.

24. Philadelphia 76ers (23-44, Last Week: 23)

Philly has lost five straight, and is 1-9 in the last 10 games.

They face the Nets Wednesday in what could shape up to be the worst basketball game ever played.

25. Golden State Warriors (18-48, Last Week: 28)

To their credit, you can’t accuse the Warriors of tanking down the stretch.

They’ve lost three of their last four games, but none of the losses have been by more than five points.

26. Indiana Pacers (21-45, Last Week: 27)

Despite having lost six of seven, the Pacers actually jumped a spot this week, by virtue of everybody else playing so horribly.

They’ll get the chance to play “spoiler” in the next week or so, with games against Charlotte, Cleveland, and Oklahoma City.

27. Los Angeles Clippers (25-43, Last Week: 24)

Interim head coach Kim Hughes has directed his Clippers to a 4-14 record since taking over, including eight straight losses.

They’ve been getting absolutely whipped during the streak, which makes you wonder if they’re tanking, or if they’re actually just that horrible.

28. Washington Wizards (21-44, Last Week: 26)

Speaking of horrible, the Wiz have also lost eight in a row.

However, they actually might have an excuse. Their schedule during the current skid: at Milwaukee, vs. Milwaukee, at Boston, vs. Houston, vs. Atlanta, at Detroit, vs. Orlando, at Utah.

Next four games: at Denver, at Portland, at LA Lakers, vs. Charlotte.

Yikes.

29. Minnesota Timberwolves (14-53, Last Week: 29)

Minny’s ineptitude this season has been completely overshadowed by that of the Nets.

What happens if they land the first pick? Is John Wall good enough to give up on Jonny Flynn/Ricky Rubio, or will they have to take Evan Turner?

95. New Jersey Nets (7-59, Last Week: 30)

Why are the Nets 95th, you ask?

Because they’re probably worse than each of the 65 teams in the NCAA tourney, that’s why.

For everything NBA and fantasy basketball-related, head over to NBA Soup .

We’re coming down to the wire in fantasy basketball, so if you’re dealing with injuries or inconsistency on your roster, it may be time to look in a different direction.

Read on for a few waiver wire gems that could seriously help your fantasy squad in the final weeks:

Jrue Holiday, PG, Philadelphia 76ers (2% owned in Yahoo! leagues)

Holiday’s production has been on the rise since Allen Iverson left, and is averaging 14 points, 6 assists, and 4 rebounds in the last five games.

His numbers are solid across the board, and he can also provide a boost in the three-point and free throw shooting departments.

If you’re in desperate need of some guard help, Holiday may be worth a look.

Courtney Lee, SG, New Jersey Nets (18%)

The Nets are horrible, but Lee has been anything but that recently.

After going through a disappointing season for the most part, he’s averaging 19 points in his last five, but has also been a bit inconsistent.

Snag him if you need scoring help, but do so with caution.

Quentin Richardson, SG/SF, Miami Heat (4%)

Richardson, like Lee, has been fairly inconsistent with his scoring, but when he’s on, he’s on.

He’s 18-43 from deep in his last five games, a stellar percentage that could prove to be a valuable asset down the stretch if you need help in that area.

He’s typically good for at least a pair of threes per game.

Drew Gooden, PF, Los Angeles Clippers (24%)

Gooden occupied this space a couple of weeks ago, but he’s still widely available in most leagues.

He’s averaging 14 points and eight rebounds per game in March, and can be a solid boost to any frontline lacking in rebounding, especially.

His Clippers may be losing, but he can help you win.

JaVale McGee, C, Washington Wizards (4%)

McGee’s numbers for the season aren’t great, but he’s stepped up his rebounding and shot blocking since the trade deadline.

He’s near the top of the league in blocks since then, and could be a nice pickup if you’re really scrapping for help.

While the teams try to sort themselves out for playoff positioning, players (and coaches) will also be jockeying for postseason honors.

So, with the final stretch almost upon us, which players are distancing themselves as the main contenders for major awards?

Most Valuable Player

1. LeBron James (CLE)

With Kobe Bryant battling an array of injuries, LeBron James has taken over as the absolute frontrunner to win his second-consecutive MVP.

James is averaging 29.4 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 8.2 assists per game for a Cavaliers team distancing itself from the pack in the East.

The King, still just 25 years old, has become the league’s best all-around player, dazzling fans on a nightly basis with his strength, athleticism, court vision, and highlight reel plays.

2. Kobe Bryant (LAL)

In my opinion, Kobe was on his way to winning this award until Cleveland took off.

3. Carmelo Anthony (DEN)

The NBA’s co-leader in scoring, while having missed time recently due to injury, has helped the Nuggets prove that last season’s success was no fluke.

4. Dirk Nowitzki (DAL)

The Mavs are struggling, but Dirk has continued his under-the-radar stellar season.

5. Chris Bosh (TOR)

The Raptors are rapidly rising in the standings, led by a career season from Bosh (averaging 24 points and 11 rebounds).

Rookie of the Year

1. Tyreke Evans (SAC)

Evans ranks 13th in the league in scoring (20.7ppg), and, although the Kings have faltered since the return of Kevin Martin, is still the leading candidate for Rookie of the Year.

He’s been battling injuries lately, but they haven’t been enough to adversely affect his performance on the floor.

His scoring knack has translated to the NBA almost seamlessly, and while he may not be a true point guard, his numbers reflect great all-around talent.

2. Brandon Jennings (MIL)

Jennings stormed onto the scene during the NBA’s first half, but his shooting has tailed off since then.

3. Stephen Curry (GS)

Curry’s numbers took off in January, and hasn’t let all the losing affect his positive attitude.

4. Jonny Flynn (MIN)

Flynn has been a solid scoring option for the T’Wolves all year long, but has struggled a bit in the role of a true point guard.

5. Omri Casspi (SAC)

Casspi has been a big hit as a rookie, and has been a great boost of energy all season long.

Coach of the Year

1. Lionel Hollins (MEM)

Hollins has helped bring the Grizzlies from the cellar of the West up towards the brink of playoff contention.

While he’s been helped by the play of one of the league’s most improved frontcourts, his efforts cannot be overlooked.

Should they make the playoffs, the Grizzlies would be one of the most surprising “Cinderella” teams in history.

2. Mike Woodson (ATL)

He’s taken them from the lottery to two consecutive playoff appearances, and this year he has the Hawks breaking into the upper echelon of teams in the East.

3. Rick Adelman (HOU)

The 2009-10 installment of the Houston Rockets may be Rick Adelman’s finest coaching job just yet.

4. Nate McMillan (POR)/Scott Brooks (OKC)

Despite an injury of his own, McMillan has kept the injury-riddled Blazers relevant out West.

The Thunder have already surpassed last season’s win total, and have perhaps the brightest future of any team in the league.

5. Larry Brown (CHA)

The Bobcats are in position to make the playoffs for the first time in franchise history.

Sixth Man of the Year

1. Jamal Crawford (ATL)

As mentioned above, the Hawks are legitimate contenders in the Eastern Conference for the first time in years.

Crawford has been a major part of that, averaging almost 18 points per game coming off the bench.

He’s always been able to put the ball in the basket, but, for the first time in his career, he’s doing it for a playoff team.

2. Carl Landry (HOU)

Landry, in his third season, is having the best year of his career, and has teamed with Aaron Brooks to form one of the league’s more underrated high-low combinations.

3. Lamar Odom (LAL)

Odom is averaging 9.7 rebounds per game in just over 31 minutes per game this season.

4. JR Smith (DEN)

Smith is a dynamic scorer off the bench, and is averaging about 15 points per game in about 27 minutes per.

5. Jason Terry (DAL)

Terry has had a solid season, but if he remains in Dallas’ starting lineup, he won’t be eligible for this award at the end of the year.

Defensive Player of the Year

1. Dwight Howard (ORL)

Howard is once again leading the league in rebounding (13.3) and blocked shots (2.73).

Still just 24 years old, this is an award Howard could conceivably win every season for several years.

2. Gerald Wallace (CHA)

Wallace, just 6-7, is averaging 11 rebounds per game (7th in the NBA), 1.6 steals, and 1.2 blocks per game.

3. Marcus Camby (LAC)

The Cambyman is still doing it at 35 years old, averaging 12 boards and two blocks per game.

4. Josh Smith (ATL)

Smith finally appears to be on his way to harnessing all that talent, and is having his best season yet.

5. Joakim Noah (CHI)

Like Smith, Noah is having the best year of his career, and is averaging 12 rebounds and 1.7 blocks per game.

Most Improved Player

1. Aaron Brooks (HOU)

No player has enjoyed a bigger leap in his scoring numbers than Brooks this season for the Rockets.

He’s become their leading scorer averaging 19.3 points per game this season, up from 11 last year.

Much of the improvement can be attributed to playing time, as he’s averaging almost 11 more minutes per game this season than last season.

2. Josh Smith (ATL)

Smith’s game and has taken a huge leap this season, and, in my opinion, he is the biggest All-Star snub.

3. Joakim Noah (CHI)

Noah worked hard during the offseason to improve on both ends of the court, and the effort is showing with his production.

Speaking of hard work, need a break from studying for your paralegal certification exam? Read on!

4. Kevin Durant (OKC)/Monta Ellis (GS)

Durant has progressed quickly from his rookie season, and he’s starting to look as dominant in the NBA as he did in college. Scary.

Ellis, after a tumultuous year last year, is quietly sixth in the league in scoring at 26.5 points per game.

His assists are also up to 5.4 per game from 3.7 last year.

5. Marc Gasol (MEM)

Marc Gasol has helped to make the Pau Gasol trade from a couple years ago look much better than it did initially.

He currently ranks third in the league in field goal percentage for the surprising Grizzlies.

All-NBA First Team

C: Dwight Howard (ORL)

F: Carmelo Anthony (DEN)

F: LeBron James (CLE)

G: Kobe Bryant (LAL)

G: Dwyane Wade (MIA)

All-NBA Second Team

C: Brook Lopez (NJ)

F: Chris Bosh (TOR)

F: Dirk Nowitzki (DAL)

G: Joe Johnson (ATL)

G: Steve Nash (PHX)

This article is also featured at NBA Soup.

There were quite a few studs operating on all cylinders, so read on to see what rookies stepped up, and who else is worth noting in another exciting night of NBA action:

New Jersey Nets @ Toronto Raptors

The Nets aren’t anything to talk about (just four wins on the season), but Kris Humphries continues to impress with solid minutes off the bench. He dropped in a double-double last night, scoring 13 points and grabbing 11 boards.

Sonny Weems notched his own double-double for Toronto, scoring 14 points and snatching 11 boards, while both Chris Bosh and Andrea Bargnani poured in 20 points.

L.A. Clippers @ Atlanta Hawks

Marcus Camby missed out on a double-double by four points, but was a beast on the boards, grabbing 20, while also managing to dish out six assists.

Craig Smith continued to have a positive impact off the bench, scoring 13 points.

Joe Johnson was the star for the Hawks (per usual), on his way to 34 points while Al Horford, Josh Smith, and Marvin Williams all registered double-double’s.

Chicago Bulls @ Philadelphia 76ers

Derrick Rose dropped 30 points and nine assists on the 76ers in an overtime loss, while Luol Deng recorded a nice double-double with 17 points and 11 rebounds.

Elton Brand looked to be regaining form, as he scored 26 points for the 76ers, while also grabbing nine rebounds and blocking three shots. Andre Iguodala added a terrific line of 25 points, eight assists, and eight rebounds.

Washington Wizards @ New York Knicks

David Lee posted the only double-double effort of the night, scoring 22 points and grabbing 10 boards, while Nate Robinson (who was named the new starting point guard for the Knick’s next game) came off the bench and poured in a game-high 23 points and eight assists.

Miami Heat @ Boston Celtics

Dwyane Wade had a big, efficient game for the Heat, scoring 30 points on 11-of-16 shooting, while also dishing out 13 assists in a 107-102 loss.

On the other side, Rajon Rondo had a stellar game of his own, scoring 22 points and dishing out 14 assists, while also grabbing six boards.

Ray Allen contributed 23 points and seven boards, while Eddie House was hot off the bench with 16 points.

Oklahoma City Thunder @ New Orleans Hornets

Kevin Durant dropped in his usual (although still elite) 30 points, while Russell Westbrook added 26 points, 10 assists, and eight rebounds in a 103-99 win for the Thunder.

Darren Collison had a bit of a down game, but still flirted with his third straight double-double, scoring nine points and dishing out nine dimes. Fellow rookie Marcus Thornton scored 22 points and added six assists.

Golden State Warriors @ Dallas Mavericks

Monta Ellis had one of his better games of the season (which is saying a lot), as he scored 46 points, while making 17-of-23 shots.

Corey Maggette was the only other started in double figures in scoring for the Warriors, as he contributed 20 points.

Jason Kidd couldn’t find his shooting stroke, although he was able to dish out an impressive 16 assists, while Jason Terry added 21 points and six assists in a rare starting appearance.

Portland Trail Blazers @ Utah Jazz

LaMarcus Aldridge turned in a solid double-double for the Blazers, as he scored 27 points and grabbed 12 rebounds, while Martell Webster hit three three’s and notched 20 points in a 118-105 loss to the Jazz.

Deron Williams added his own double-double for Utah, scoring 13 points and handing out 13 dimes, while Andrei Kirilenko added a nice line of 22 points, eight assists, and six rebounds.

Mehmet Okur led all scorers with 28 points, while also grabbing eight boards.

San Antonio Spurs @ Sacramento Kings

Tim Duncan recorded a nice double-double, scoring 22 points and grabbing 13 rebounds, while Manu Ginobli, George Hill, and rookie DeJuan Blair all scored at least 20 points in a Spurs 115-113 win.

Despite the loss, Tyreke Evans owned this game, scoring 32 points, dishing out eight assists, and grabbing seven boards.

Charlotte Bobcats @ L.A. Lakers

Stephen Jackson paced the Bobcats with 30 points in a close contests against the Lakers, while Lamar Odom came off the bench to give the Lakers a boost, dropping in 19 points and seven rebounds.

Andrew Bynum helped pick-up the slack with 17 points and 14 rebounds, as star Kobe Bryant went 2-for-12 and scored just five points on the night.

Phoenix Suns @ Denver Nuggets

The Suns came away with a big win, 109-97, behind Jason Richardon’s 20 points, as well as two nice double-double efforts by likely culprits, Steve Nash and Amare Stoudemire.

Nene Hilario was the star for the Nuggets, scoring 15 points and grabbing nine boards, while J.R. Smith added a punch off the bench with 15 points.

For more NBA and fantasy basketball advice, go here.

NBA Star Search is the place to look.

Read on for the top elite performers, as well as the gems who stepped into the NBA spotlight on Tuesday night:

Toronto Raptors @ Indiana Pacers

Andrea Bargnani and Chris Bosh had huge nights, despite losing to the Pacers, 130-115.

Bargnani his 14-21 shots for a season-high 34 points, while Bosh posted an impressive double-double, while scoring 35 points and ripping down 15 boards. Marco Belinelli also chipped in with a solid 21 points.

For Indiana, Troy Murphy and Earl Watson paced the Pacers (pun intended) with double-double’s of their own, as Murphy scored 20 points and grabbed 14 rebounds before fouling out.

Watson scored 15 points and dished out 11 assists.

Memphis Grizzles @ Cleveland Cavaliers

LeBron James and Shaquille O’Neal each recorded double-double’s in the Cavaliers’ 105-89 win. James had a game-high 22 points and 15 boards, while Shaq notches 13 points and 13 rebounds, while also blocking four shots.

Daniel Gibson continued to do a solid job (waiver wire alert) manning the point, scoring in double figures (16) for the sixth straight game.

Milwaukee Bucks @ Orlando Magic

Andrew Bogut had the only respectable numbers for Milwaukee, which only boasted three players in double figures for scoring. Bogut notched a rather pedestrian double-double, with 10 points and 10 rebounds, and also managed three blocks.

Vince Carter finally got it going after being in a rut for the past couple of weeks, as he played over 40 minutes and posted a great line with 17 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists.

Jason Williams filled in nicely for the injured Jameer Nelson, as he scored 11 points and dished out five assists, while J.J. Redick continued to give help off the bench, scoring at least 15 for the second straight game.

Dwight Howard contributed his usual double-double, scoring 22 points and cleaning the glass with 11 boards.

Detroit Pistons @ New Jersey Nets

Richard Hamilton and Rodney Stuckey had decent games, dropping in 22 and 21 points a piece, respectively.

Devin Harris returned from a four game absence due to injury to drop 24 points and 14 assists, while Kris Humphries continued to get solid minutes off the bench, as he dropped in nine points and 12 rebounds.

L.A. Clippers @ Chicago Bulls

Chris Kaman registered the only double-double in this contest, dropping in 21 points, while tearing down 11 boards.

Eric Gordon was the only other player worth mentioning, as he scored 24 points and grabbed six boards in a 90-82 Clippers’ win.

Atlanta Hawks @ Oklahoma City Thunder

Joe Johnson had easily one of the best games of the night, hitting 13-20 shots for 37 points, as the Hawks fell to the Thunder, 106-99.

Kevin Durant kept pace with Johnson all nice, scoring 33 points and grabbing 11 boards, while teammate Russell Westbrook narrowly missed a triple-double, with 12 points, nine assists, and nine rebounds.

Golden State Warriors @ Houston Rockets

Monta Ellis made losing to the Rockets a little easier with a nice 34-point performance, as he went 13-21 from the floor and grabbed two steals.

Carl Landy was huge off the bench, as he hit 12-13 free throws and notched 24 points. Aaron Brooks also had 24 points, and also chipped in eight boards and six assists.

Rookie Chase Budinger helped out with a solid 14 points on 5-7 shooting off the bench.

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There are several great match-ups worthy of a viewing this week, so let’s delve into what I believe to be the five most intriguing games coming up.

Memphis Grizzlies at Cleveland Cavaliers, Tuesday, Feb. 2, 7pm ET

So, what’s Memphis’ reward for taking down Kobe Bryant and the Lakers Monday night?

A visit to Cleveland to face LeBron and his Cavs on Tuesday, of course!

The Grizz were able to snap a brief two-game skid by beating Los Angeles 95-93 on Monday, with 22 points and 17 rebounds from All-Star Zach Randolph.

Cleveland, on the other hand, has won eight straight, and sits alone in first place in the Eastern Conference.

James is making a strong bid to win his second consecutive MVP award, and is averaging 29.4 points, 7.2 rebounds, and eight assists per game.

James could be matched up for much of the night with Rudy Gay, one of the more underrated players in the league.

Gay has good size at 6’8″ with long arms, and, although much thinner than James, should be able to put up a good fight against the King.

Atlanta Hawks at Oklahoma City Thunder, Tuesday, Feb. 2, 8pm ET

Given the struggles of the Celtics, the Hawks could be Cleveland’s top competition right now out east.

They’ve finally managed to put all that young talent to use this season, and are 30-16 coming into this game.

Jamal Crawford is the likely front runner for Sixth Man of the Year, and Josh Smith,   finally putting everything together, is having a career year.

The Thunder have already surpassed last season’s win total, and it wouldn’t be much of a surprise if they were even able to double it.

Kevin Durant appears to have made “the leap” to superstardom, as he erupted in January to average 32.1 points and eight rebounds for the month.

Durant is a lankier version of the aforementioned Rudy Gay; a player that can create his own shot and score from literally anywhere on the floor.

Considering the youth that will be running the floor tonight in Oklahoma City, these two surprise teams should be able to get up-and-down to make for an extremely entertaining ballgame.

Portland Trail Blazers at Utah Jazz, Wednesday, Feb. 3, 9pm ET

Just last Wednesday, Utah stormed into Portland and took down the Blazers 106-95.

The Trail Blazers have gotten a modest two-game winning streak going, as they look to continue on without Brandon Roy, who is battling hamstring problems.

They needed 52 points from Andre Miller to defeat the Mavericks Saturday night, but got much more of a well-rounded team effort in Monday’s thrashing of the Bobcats.

Without Roy and both usual centers, the Blazers need to count on LaMarcus Aldridge to take on more of the scoring load, which is something he hasn’t been used to yet during his brief NBA career.

The Jazz will come into this game one game removed from beating Dallas at home, 104-92, behind a strong fourth quarter effort.

Utah outscored Dallas 27-16 in that final frame, and were able to force several turnovers down the stretch that led to easy buckets on the offensive end.

They’re currently riding a six-game winning streak, and could be without Carlos Boozer for the third straight game.

Denver Nuggets at Los Angeles Lakers, Friday, Feb. 5, 10:30pm ET (ESPN)

This will be the second meeting of the season for the Nuggets and Lakers, last season’s participants in the Western Conference Finals.

The first meeting was a dominating 105-79 win for the Nuggets, who held the Lakers to just eight points in the third quarter that night.

The Nuggets have been on a hot streak lately without star Carmelo Anthony, who has missed the last five games with an ankle injury.

It hasn’t yet been determined if he’ll be ready to play Friday.

The Lakers have been up and down of late, with Sunday’s big 90-89 win in Boston being followed by Monday’s loss in Memphis.

The Lakers are going to need more out of Andrew Bynum in order to contend with the strong front line of the Nuggets.

Bynum was essentially MIA against the Grizzlies, posting just five points in 26 minutes of action.

These are undoubtedly the top two teams in the Western Conference, which should make for an ultra-competitive, playoff-type game Friday night.

Orlando Magic at Boston Celtics, Sunday, Feb. 7, 2:30pm ET (ABC)

Just last Thursday night, the Magic defeated the Celtics in Orlando 96-94 on a driving layup by Rashard Lewis with little time remaining.

The Magic finally appear to have hit their stride by winning three in a row and look to start building on last season’s success.

They made several significant changes to the roster in the offseason, and have struggled to integrate those players and duplicate their success from a season ago when they reached the NBA Finals.

The Celtics were perhaps able to snap out of their mini-tailspin with their 99-88 win in Washington Monday.

In order to truly contend, Boston is going to need to get more out of Ray Allen.

Allen’s well-documented struggles have coincided with the Celtics’, and there have even been rumors that Boston wouldn’t be opposed to trading Allen before the Feb. 18 trade deadline.

Kevin Garnett and the Celtics will certainly be hungry for some revenge.

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Risers:

Darren Collison, PG, New Orleans Hornets

With Chris Paul to be sidelined for at least a month with knee surgery, rookie Darren Collison will step in and attempt to fill the enormous shoes vacated by CP3.

In two games since Paul went down, Collison has responded extremely well, posting 17 points and 18 assists in the first game, with 16 points and 14 assists in the second.

While his shooting percentage hasn’t been great, he does too many things too well to be ignored.

Marcus Thornton, SG, New Orleans Hornets

Another Hornet rookie, Marcus Thornton, has gone off in his past five games, with point totals of 19, 18, 20, 14, and 25.

With Paul out, Thornton’s opportunities to score on his own should continue to increase.

However, he’s not a threat to do a whole lot aside from putting the ball in the basket (though he did randomly post nine rebounds Saturday against Memphis).

Stephen Curry, G, Golden State Warriors

Curry just completed the best month of his brief career, averaging 19 points per game while shooting ridiculous percentages of 48 percent from the field, 49 percent from three-point range, and 89 percent from the free throw line.

As was the case in college, he’s proven to be an extremely explosive scorer at times, and has one of the best shooting strokes in the entire league.

His confidence is rising, and it’s reflected in how he’s been playing.

Curry’s ball-handling has improved since his college days, and his assist numbers (about five per game) and steals (almost two) should also be beneficial to an owner.

Fallers:

Andre Iguodala, G/F, Philadelphia 76ers

Iguodala is a versatile player that typically fills a stat sheet, but his scoring numbers plummeted in January.

He averaged just 13 points per game for the month (down from 19 over the first two months), and he shot just 40 percent from the field.

His scoring numbers have certainly been affected by the return of Allen Iverson, and I would expect those numbers to gradually go back up as Iguodala becomes more comfortable playing with Iverson again.

While his fantasy impact should cause some concern, it’s definitely not time to panic just yet.

Josh Howard, G/F,  Dallas Mavericks

Last week, Jason Terry was inserted full-time into the Mavericks’ starting lineup, meaning a sharp decline in the minutes for Josh Howard.

Terry has responded well, scoring near 20 points in each of the last five games. This means the likelihood of Howard’s return to prominence for Dallas is dwindling rapidly.

Howard is averaging just 12 points per game and is shooting a miserable 38 percent from the field.

Dallas would like to trade him, but at this point, who would want him?

As of today, his fantasy value is essentially toast.

JR Smith, G, Denver Nuggets

The Nuggets have been playing their best basketball of the season despite the struggles of JR Smith.

Smith shot just 38 percent from the field and 31 percent from three-point range in January, and started off February on an even lower note, posting just nine points on 4-of-13 shooting against Sacramento, including 0-of-7 from three.

While he’d scored well in the previous three games, the eventual return of Carmelo Anthony should limit the opportunities further for Smith.

He’s still certainly a threat to go off at any time, but the normally reliable shooter has been just about anything but that so far this year.

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