5. Derrick Rose » If he is the MVP this season, as many say he is, then he must lead the Bulls deep into the postseason considering they had the best record. Rose is terrific and deserving of any honor. But he’s 0-2 in playoff series. This is his best chance to hang around for a while.
4. Kevin Durant » It’s easy to play when you’re the heavy underdog. But now the Thunder have real expectations, and if Durant wants to take that step into superstardom, then he’ll have to win a series or two. This is his fourth season; it’s time.
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3. Jeff Green » Boston traded a key part and beloved teammate in Kendrick Perkins to acquire Green. No pressure there. Green’s lone playoff experience was Oklahoma’s six-game loss to the Lakers last season. If the Celtics lose, many will point to this trade as their undoing.
2. LaMarcus Aldridge » He’s the new face of the Trail Blazers and is thriving in that role. His scoring average increased from 17.9 to 21.8 points this season. In four games vs. first-round opponent Dallas this season, Aldridge averaged 27.8 points and made 52 percent of his shots.
1. Chris Bosh » Can you really be a star if you only won three playoff games in your first seven seasons? Not in our book. Bosh’s reputation is on the line as much as anyone’s this postseason. Will he hide from the physical play that becomes the norm in the playoffs? Can he handle the pressure? We’re about to find out.
