If you are playing playoff fantasy basketball, which players should shine in the NBA’s version of the Final Four? Here’s a look at the best players at each position:

C Dwight Howard, Orlando Magic
It seems like Howard and Stan Van Gundy are now on the same page. Superman will concentrate on rebounds and blocked shots while allowing his teammates to handle the scoring. Even though he probably won’t have any huge offensive outbursts, Howard is still a fantasy stud at this point.

PF Pau Gasol, Los Angeles Lakers
This is the weakest spot in the remaining NBA teams. Gasol is very talented but sometimes struggled against the Rockets. He has the highest ceiling of any remaining power forward but he could find it tough to produce against the physical Nuggets defenders.

SF LeBron James, Cleveland Cavaliers
This is a no-brainer. LeBron is not only the best small forward in fantasy basketball right now, he’s by far the best fantasy basketball player. If he’s on your team, thank your lucky stars.

SG Kobe Bryant, Los Angeles Lakers
Now that Kobe won’t have to go against Shane Battier and Ron Artest, he could find some more room to breathe. That said, the Nuggets have been playing good defense as of late.

PG Chauncey Billups, Denver Nuggets
Speaking of the Nuggets, whether or not they advance will likely depend on the play of Big Shot Billups. If he can continue is outstanding play, Billups could topple the Lakers … again, just like in 2004.

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2008 NBA MVP Kobe Bryant led the way with 39 points, as he once again proved he’s the best player in the world. He was ruthless in the fourth quarter and single-handedly sent the Spurs packing.

In the East, the Boston Celtics lead the Detroit Pistons 3-2. The Celtics will look to close it out on Friday in Detroit. If the Pistons win Game 6, the next and last game will be in Boston on Sunday.

Here is a video of the Western Conference champion Los Angeles Lakers:

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This could be a big blow for the Spurs because Splitter has long been regarded as one of the best prospects in Europe. He’s a mobile center who is already a very good defender. His offense is solid but it remains unpolished.

With the Spurs trailing in the Western Conference Finals, it’s almost time to start planning for next season for San Antonio. The Spurs apparently have to cross off Splitter’s name from their next year’s roster.

With Splitter seemingly out of the picture, that could open up room for Ian Mahinmi. Mahinmi is a young center prospect who starred in the NBA D-League during the 2007-08 season. He’s expected to make the Spurs roster for the 2008-09 season.

Photo: Newscom

Post from: Expert Fantasy

In the Western Conference Finals, the Lakers will play either the New Orleans Hornets or the San Antonio Spurs. That Hornets and Spurs play their Game 7 on Monday.

“You Can’t Stop Me!” – Kobe Bryant:

Post from: Expert Fantasy