NBA Playoffs 2012: Power Ranking Potential Finals Matchups

There are NBA Finals matchups we would much rather see than others.

With the Miami Heat and San Antonio Spurs up two games to zero in their respective series against the Boston Celtics and Oklahoma City Thunder, it appears clear who will likely make the finals.

But who we want to see battling for the Larry O'Brien Trophy is a much different story.

While I, probably much like everyone else, think it will be the Spurs and Heat in the finals, here's a look at who we want to see.

4. Boston Celtics vs. Oklahoma City Thunder

Not only would the Celtics slow down the game and continue to play their successful style that we all hate to watch, they would impose that style on the Thunder.

One of the best things about the Thunder is that they run the fast break, they use their athleticism and they play a very fast pace. 

We love to watch that.

Against the Celtics, however, we wouldn't see much of it.

3. Boston Celtics vs. San Antonio Spurs

The Celtics are getting more and more banged up as the season goes on, and while they play good defense, it just doesn't seem realistic they would be able to keep up with the Spurs. 

However, there is an individual matchup in this one that would make it extremely desirable to watch.

Kevin Garnett versus Tim Duncan.

That's right. Two of the best power forwards in the history of the NBA who have been enjoying a bit of a blast to the past during these playoffs going at it.

It would be a fitting final chapter to the historical rivalry these two have put together. 

2. Miami Heat vs. San Antonio Spurs

The Spurs offense going up against the Heat defense. You can't ask for much more than that.

What makes San Antonio so dangerous on the offensive end is their ability to drive, kick and swing the ball for an open three-pointer.

Everyone can pass, and as long as they keep moving it with the precision they move the ball with, someone will get an open shoot. Oh, and they all can shoot.

But it wouldn't be so easy against the Heat.

The Heat, on the other hand, are fast and probably the best team in the league at rotating on defense. Instead of reacting to ball movement, they make preemptive movements.

It's scary how quick they can close on shooters.

The Spurs offense against the Heat defense would be the matchup of the playoffs. 

1. Miami Heat vs. Oklahoma City Thunder

If you don't want to see LeBron James against Kevin Durant in the finals at least sometime in your lifetime, you probably aren't American.

These are likely the two biggest stars in the NBA for the next 10 years, and to see them battle it out for their first championship would be more than memorable. 

Not only does the winner take home the O'Brien Trophy, the winner establishes himself as the clear best player in the NBA. That's a lot on the line.

Quick, David Stern, make this happen.

Just kidding. Kind of. 

Follow @t_keen