2012 NBA Playoff Predictions: 5 Teams That Can Win It All

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The NBA regular season is over, and the playoffs begin today with four matchups.

But the season just began, didn't it?

Despite a lockout-shortened season, several teams contain talent that could land them in the NBA Finals. But which ones, you ask?

Here are the five teams that I believe have the potential to go all the way.

Chicago Bulls

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With Derrick Rose back, the Bulls have the depth and experience for a title run. Aside from Rose, Chicago has weapons in Kyle Korver, Carlos Boozer and Luol Deng.

If Derrick Rose stays healthy and receives support from the bench, the finals are a very realistic goal for Chicago.

Miami Heat

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The "Big Three" may experience trouble in the very first round, playing against a good Knicks team. But if the Heat can slip past New York, a deep run is possible.

If LeBron James or Dwyane Wade get injured, Miami doesn't have the depth to replace them. With that being said, a title is only possible with LeBron and Dwyane healthy.

Oklahoma City Thunder

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The Thunder have been title contenders all season, and this is the time for them to prove their critics wrong.

OKC has vital weapons in Russel Westbrook and Kevin Durant, and now they have James Harden back from an injury.

If Durant and Westbrook take over the games with steady contributions from the bench, expect to see the Thunder in the finals.

San Antonio Spurs

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The Spurs should have no problem in the first round against an eighth seed Utah Jazz team.

With strong weapons in Tony Parker and possible MVP candidate Tim Duncan, San Antonio is siting squarely on top of the Western Conference.

As the top seed in the west, a title run would not be out of the ordinary. Expect to see a deep run for the Spurs.

Boston Celtics

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Okay, everyone—don't laugh at me for this pick.

Although Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce and Ray Allen may be in their last year in the league, youngsters such as Rajon Rondo and Avery Bradley have stepped up their game and may be the X-factor in their playoff run.

As a fourth seed, the Celtics may be overlooked. But just because they're old doesn't mean that they can't do damage. In other words, don't count Boston out.