The Stage is Set for a Classic Western Conference Finals

Only four years ago we all witnessed one of the most replayed miracle shots in NBA history known only by the numbers, 0.4!

After an amazing prayer fadeaway shot at the top of the key over Shaq with the time expiring, Tim Duncan hit a shot for the ages that could seemingly could not be topped, at least until the next shot by D-Fish. With the game in the San Antonio Spurs hands at 73-72 the Lakers had an impossible shot to make. After Duncan's crazy shot to put the Spurs on top, the Lakers immediately called a timeout before the inbounds with only 0.4 seconds remaining on the clock. Everyone in the arena would have guaranteed that the basketball would end up in Kobe Bryant's hands for the last shot, but that was far from the truth as the Spurs defense was tight as a drum trying to avoid one of the biggest clutch shots in NBA history, as a result, Derek Fisher was able to get just enough room to make a catch and shoot fadeaway about a foot or so away from the three point line and all you saw was one of the prettiest swishes in NBA history which Lakers fans will never forget!

Things have changed drastically since that game 5 in 2004, the Spurs proved that they have built a dynasty by winning two more championships in 2005 and 2007 and the Lakers franchise went straight down the tubes with Shaq and Gary Payton headed to Miami, Karl Malone retiring and the whole Lakers franchise basically going to shit with everyone pointing the finger at Kobe Bryant.

It took three seasons of a rebuilding process, but the Lakers have gotten back a taste of their dominance from the championship years with the addition of Pau Gasol, the emergence of a very talented bench and Kobe Bryant finally getting some love being crowned the NBA's MVP for his efforts in turning the Lakers back into title contenders after three forgettable years.

The Spurs on the other hand haven't lost a step even though some people say they are finally feeling their age and we are witness the Spurs on the downside of their dominance of the decade, they are still one of the toughest teams to beat and are in the Western conference finals yet again to defend their NBA title reign.

Although I hate the Spurs with a passion as a die hard Lakers fan, I can't say I don't respect them. They are the only team in this league that could give the Lakers a run for their money. The Spurs have everything you would want in a team, playoff experience, proven role players, a solid bench and a fearless leader in Tim Duncan.

If there were any team in the league right now that could end the Lakers title run it is the San Antonio Spurs, I hate saying that, but it is the truth! That is why I think we are going to be in for a treat as this Western conference finals will most definitely be an on the edge of your seat NBA classic that we will remember for years to come!

WESTERN CONFERENCE FINALS GAME 1: San Antonio Spurs at Los Angeles Lakers Weds, May 21st 6pm PST

0.4 BABY!