13 Stories to Watch in 2013 Pt. 2

Now that we're into our second day of 2013, here's the second part to Monday's post.

13 Stories to Watch in 2013

It's New Year's Eve. In light of 2013, here's 13 trends/storylines to look forward to in the coming year.

Still Not a Believer: Knickerbocker Edition

It’s New York, so of course there’s going to be lots and lots of love for the Knickerbockers in a year in which they currently own the best record in the Eastern Conference. There’s talk of Carmelo Anthony for MVP. There’s talk of best team in the Association. There’s talk of dethroning the Heat.

But, talk is cheap. Analyzing the situation, trends, and historical precedents, reveal what should be more realistic expectations for this Knicks team.

BasketBias: Carmelo Anthony

New York Knicks star Carmelo Anthony just may have the team's medical staff taking a cut of his own non-"ridiculous" contract. Whether he gives up this portion of his salary as a karmic justification for his lack of defensive effort remains to be determined.  

Great Expectations: LA Clippers 12-13 Preview (Pt. II)

The NBA has really developed into a talent-rich league over the past half decade. Besides producing a better, more visually appealing brand of basketball, it has also increased the importance of depth. While I am skeptical regarding how high the Clippers can go with their new additions, the fact remains that the team is legitimately 11-12 players deep. The team's depth should propel the squad to a high seed, but is a mixed bag of super athletic youth still learning the game, and once productive players already in decline.

Once the playoffs begin, I'm not sure that will be enough to legitimately challenge for a ring this year.