Amidst the soap opera called the Dallas Cowboys and the intriguing baseball playoffs, basketball is right around the corner.

It's far too soon to discuss potential finals matchups, but there are plenty of interesting storylines.

Greg Oden should, barring another injury, make his "rookie" debut for the Portland Trail Blazers, while super freshmen of a year ago -- Michael Beasley, O.J. Mayo, Kevin Love and Derrick Rose -- also make their professional debuts with high expectations.

Even though he would fit right in 25 years ago, Oden is the most unique of these players.

He fits the true center mold and has the potential to dominate the competition in the next few years, as long as he can stay healthy. If not, he could easily become this generation's Ralph Sampson.

Looking at my hometown team, the Houston Rockets, the biggest question surrounds how former Pacer Ron Artest can fit into the mold. Also, as with recent years, health concerns surround the Rockets. Can Yao Ming and Tracy McGrady finally play a full 82 games. Signs point to no, but there is always hope for what should be one of the Western Conference favorites.

My other favorite team, the Pacers, are looking for a fresh start with the beginning of the post-Jermaine O'Neal era.

In my opinion, they are still a move or two away from making some noise in the Eastern Conference.

At the top of the list, obviously, is finding a taker for Jamaal Tinsley. It will be tough, but they need to get something of value for him, even if it is just a second-round pick.

The rest of the team shows some promise. Danny Granger is now the focal point of the team, and draft picks Roy Hibbert and Brandon Rush could provide a solid core for the future. They could even be considered a dark horse to potentially grab a middle of the road playoff spot.

Whatever may happen, the 2008-09 NBA season should provide some interesting scenarios and, hopefully, playoff spots for both the Pacers and Rockets.